cover image Wild Born

Wild Born

Brandon Mull, read by Nicola Barber. Scholastic Audio, unabridged, five CDs, 5.5 hrs., $29.99 ISBN 978-0-545-60038-5

Set in the world of Erdas, this first book in Mull’s new series follows four young children who drink magical Nectar and discover that they have spirit animals—a wolf, a leopard, a panda, and a falcon. As Greencloaks (those in possession of spirit animals), the four children must band together to stop a dark force known as the Devourer that threatens Erdas once again. Expertly narrated by Barber, this audio edition transports listeners to a magical and dangerous world. Barber’s reading is surprisingly understated, but entirely effective. Her subtle characterizations are accurate, believable, and unique. Fun for both young and old, listening becomes a compulsion with Barber at the helm of this wild ride. Ages 8–12. A Scholastic hardcover. (Sept.)