The Fabled Stables

The Fabled Stables: Willa the Wisp

Jonathan Auxier

Olga Demidova, Illustrator

Amulet, 2020 89 pages

Grades 2-4

Fantasy

The Fabled Stables series #1

Meet Auggie, a boy with the unique job of caring for the creatures in the Fabled Stables. All of the mythical animals on the island are fantastical and unique. This would be the best job in the world, except Auggie is lonely and longs for a friend. He is the only boy on the island, belonging to the mysterious Professor Cake, and has no one to play with. Auggie attempts to bond with the curmudgeonly magical stick who assists him in his work, but Fen doesn't want to get attached. He then turns to the kind and mysterious Miss Bundt, but she is far too busy. Suddenly, a magical path appears in the stable to a forest and Auggie must get to work. Upon investigation he discovers a baby Willa the Wisp, who is being tracked by hunters. Willa and Auggie find themselves trapped and the situation looks hopeless. Will anyone come to their aid? And if so, can Willa's life be saved beyond the one day life expectancy? And who are these mysterious hunters anyway? All will be revealed in this exciting new series opener.

A writer of longer fantastical stories, Auxier tries his hand at a new chapter book series. This new series is highly illustrated in full color, resembling the Branches line of books and will certainly appeal to new readers. The story is exciting and fast paced. Who wouldn't want to live on an island full of magical creatures? Kids will relate to Auggie's desire for a friend, especially during these days of isolation, and will instantly bond with this likable protagonist. For some reason Auxier's writing always feels British to me, including this series opener, and I'm not quite sure why. The author is Canadian/American, yet writes with a folkloric quality that feels like a story from yesteryear. This story felt a bit like The Little Prince and if it was not for the full color I would believe that it was a classic from long ago. A fine choice for fantasy-loving new chapter book readers, this title will also serve as a great family read-aloud. The attractive book design will ensure that it will find an audience and I am confident that it will circulate well in my library.