This collection of six short stories provides a prequel to the popular Spirit Animals series. Readers learn the origins of the Devourer and his Conquerers and of the Greencloak Resistance. Four of the six stories tell of the Great Beasts who later fall during a fight against the Devourer. The epic battle and deaths of the Four Fallen, referenced in the series, is told in detail. The short stories are written by a variety of authors, as is the series. While all are memorable, Gavin Brown's story of Uraza the leopard stands out with its strong voice and humor. The theme of good-versus-evil and the premise that a few chosen humans are able to bond with animals, absorbing their powers in the fight against world domination, makes for an appealing premise, as does the tie-in to an online game. This special edition comes out between books five and six, just in time for holiday shopping. Fans clamoring for additional titles in the New York Times best-selling series will find the back stories highly satisfying.

With Nick Eliopulos, Billy Merrell, Gavin Brown, and Emily Seife. This prequel short-story collection explains how Briggan the Wolf, Uraza the Leopard, Jhi the Panda, and Essix the Falcon came to be the legendary spirit animals who accompany the series' four child heroes. Devoted followers can expect the familiar action and adventure in these solid but formulaic fantasy stories with an online component.

Gr 4-7 Fans of this unique fantasy series will want to reach for this collection of short stories about mystical and transcendent characters of the animal world. Each of the five tales delves into the conflict of the spirit animals and the threats they face. Nicola Barber's performance deserves high praise as she completely engages the listener through her depiction of the various characters. Young listeners who want to learn more of the world of Erdas will certainly be compelled to keep listening to the end. High levels of adventure, drama, and suspense ensure that this series continues the excitement that initially attracted fans. Young listeners will enjoy the danger and villainry as well as the bravery and heroism. Sheila Acosta, San Antonio Public Library