Published by Delacorte Press on March 12th 2019
ISBN: 0525581162
Pages: 304
Goodreads
The Waking Forest
In a fantasy story that begins from two points of view: Rhea’s and the Witch of the forest, readers are sent on an often confusing ride to know what is true. Rhea is one of many sisters, who are hard to keep straight at first, and readers aren’t sure if her parents are alive or dead or who is related to whom. A fox follows Rhea around keeping her safe until the end when the fox is revealed to be a person. In the end Rhea is shown to be the Witch of Wishes and also the Witch of Words or stories. Varon keeps Rhea safe on her journey and is someone who is very special to her throughout the book. Fantasy fans may enjoy this with witches, magic, darkness, a princess, and a Fox who is not a Fox but, to me, it was often confusing. In her first book Alyssa Wees often uses poetical and elegant language. This book is recommended for grades 7-12.
Reviewed by Ellen Spring, Oceanside High School, Rockland