Warren the 13th and the Whispering Woods

This second book in the series was twice as cute as the first. Oh Warren, you’re just lovely. I’m going to say it right here: even the synopsis has spoilers! If you want to start at the beginning check out my review of book one here.

SYNOPSIS

Warren the 13th is back in another lushly illustrated middle grade adventure. 
This sequel to Warren the 13th and the All-Seeing Eye begins soon after the first book’s conclusion.Twelve-year-old Warren has learned that his beloved hotel can walk, and now it’s ferrying guests around the countryside, transporting tourists to strange and foreign destinations. But when an unexpected detour brings everyone into the dark and sinister Malwoods, Warren finds himself separated from his hotel and his friends and racing after them on foot through a forest teeming with witches, snakes, talking trees, and mind-boggling riddles. Once again, you can expect stunning illustrations and gorgeous design from Will Staehle on every page along with plenty of nonstop action and adventure! from Goodreads.

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MY THOUGHTS

If we have learned nothing from superhero movies, it is that too many villains will ruin a story. I want to see character development and growth. Obviously, one foe or impediment to success is nice to see a character overcome that obstacle but, and here I am thinking of Wonder Woman 1986, too many enemies is just a hot mess.

I was a little worried that this was going to happen with Warren the 13th and the Whispering Woods since it is the second in the series and that is usually where the slump happens. There are, indeed, a LOT of baddies in this book in lieu of major character development but unlike, Spiderman 3 (Tobey McGuire), they all served a purpose to the story that ended up being such fun.

I love the setting of this story, The Malwoods. I love nature and it hates me but I could really use a long hike through the forrest this week. I am ready for the heat of summer to fade into the fall so a haunted, spooky forrest hit all the right notes for me.

Witches, Sap-Squatches, Mimics, and Snake Salesmen all try to separate Warren from his beloved hotel but between Warren’s unflappable polite and kind nature and his cadre of friends supporting him, you just know Warren will pull through. Well, that, and the fact that there is a third book. It is the how it will all unfold that was so much fun.

If you are in the mood for a great middle-grade fantasy adventure with unique illustrations and typography this series is perfect!

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Tell me, please! Which Superhero movie did you think had too many villans?

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