The Seventh Raven by David Elliott, Rovina Cai
Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt on March 16, 2021
ISBN: 0358252113
Pages: 192
Genres: Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

This retelling of a Brother’s Grimm fairy tale is fanciful and enticing as it is written in a variety of poetic forms and packed with emotion.   The book offers a view of each character’s personality and reveals a peek into their changed lives.   The seven brothers (six of which are named Jack) become ravens when their father curses them upon the near death of their baby sister Alice.  Only one of the birds (Robyn) feels accomplished and comfortable in his new body.  In poetic form, this story centers on Robyn and Alice expressing their strengths and desire for transformation.  Written in flowing verse accompanied by graphic illustrations, The Seventh Raven is a must read for grade 6-8 readers.  The black and white art expresses the fear and entrapment felt by six of the birds. Occasional black background pages convey their depression.

Add this winner to middle school media centers and to public libraries.   In addition, this is a great book to gift to either male or female fantasy readers.

Recommend for Cream of the Crop

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME.