1 Thorn Ogres of Hagwood

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Spaghetti Book Club - Book Reviews by Kids for Kids

Thorn Ogres of Hagwood

Written by Robin Jarvis


Reviewed by Rikki W. (age 14)


Thorn Ogres of Hagwood

Imagine yourself trapped beneath an abomination of half spider and half wasp, clinging onto a web of thin thread, and fighting until your last breath. Creatures, known as werlings, lived that experience in Thorn Ogres of Hagwood. They kept a peaceful existence by transforming themselves into mammals known to them until that all changes. The wandering smith returns to Hagwood to take care of something he should have a long time ago. During his mission, he found a group of werlings in need of help. He aided the poor creatures and gave them both his hospitality and a responsibility. The responsibility gave them power of the lives of their friends and family, perhaps even all of Hagwood.

My personal opinion of the book is it was a great beginning to a trilogy and an entertaining book to read. I enjoyed it because of its fantasy world and its detailed surroundings. My favorite part was when they told the tale of Frighty Aggie because I like urban myths and storytelling. My favorite character was Finnen, a greatly praised werling, with a secret weighing heavy on his heart. I liked him because I understood how he felt and the weight of others opinions pressing on you. There were illustrations that foreshadow events in the chapters and I enjoyed them since I love to draw. This first book left me thirsting for the next book.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy. Middle school students could definitely tackle the vocabulary and understand the tale woven through Thorn Ogres of Hagwood.