
When I first open a book, I want to be intrigued by the end of the first page. I want to feel like I’ll break if I don’t get to figure out what’s going on and why these characters are important. I want to be thrown into a plot that lets me experience all the emotions—excitement, fear, happiness, etc. I want to become so invested in the story that finishing the last chapter feels like saying goodbye to a friend.
And that is exactly what happened when I read, “The Foxling: The Different World” by B.W. Luby.
What’s funny is… I really didn’t get this book for myself. I don’t read a lot of middle grade books, but I had gotten it more for my little sister, who is obsessed with all things books and fantasy. (She might be the one person who can read faster than I do… just don’t tell her I said that.) I knew she’d love this fun and whimsical story.
What I didn’t expect was how much I would love it, too.
And since “The Different World” has gone on both of our favorites list, I thought it would be fun to invite my little sister, Gracie, to help me put together a review!
So… let’s dive in, shall we?
THE CHARACTERS:
E: What did you love about the characters in, “The Different World?”
G: They were all different. One character was wild. Another character was always serious, but that made him funny sometimes. Some were brave. A lot were brave. A lot learned to be brave. You start to feel like they are all friends and you wish they were real. I didn’t want to stop reading!
E: If you were a Foxling, what would your name be?
G: Silver Wing - because I’d be silver!
E: If you could meet any character, who would it be and why?
G: All of them if I could But… probably Stargazer. Because he’s just funny. He’s wild like a firework.
This story follows a group of Foxlings and humans on an epic adventure through the Different World. They are led by the Princess of the Foxlings, Moonfrost, and her warrior husband, Skyblade. Dreamer and Stargazer are two young Foxlings earning their place as Guardians of Childhood. And then we have Valerie, a young girl fighting a battle even she doesn’t realize is happening. Together, they are all working to protect the human world from the horrible Vile Ones.
We had many positive role-models in, “The Different World,” especially when it comes to the friendship between our main characters. They’re flawed, they don’t always do the right thing or make the right decision, but they lean on each other to work through it. And it all works—even though they are different and have different personalities that, at times, clash.
However, probably my favorite aspect of this story was the true purpose of the Foxlings. Hidden behind the laughter and smiles and love of foodare fierce warriors willing to do whatever it takes to protect children. I was shocked at how these sweet and whimiscal creatures could turn into such strong fighters. I think that’s something we can all relate to.
We are all unified for our desire to protect childhood innocence, and that passion burns strong in the hearts of the Foxlings. To love is to defend those you love. It is their entire purpose.
In a world as dark as this, you desperately want their light and their goodness to be true—and they inspire you to become that light.
THE THEMES:
E: Why were you excited to read, “The Different World?”
G: I was excited to read it because I just knew it was going to be a fun book. And the cover was beautiful!
E: What did you love about reading this book?
G: It was funny! It made me laugh, and that was nice. Some parts were scary. All the characters were strong and some didn’t know that they were strong, but they learned to finally let it out.
E: Did you learn anything from reading this book?
G: That jealousy can lead to a really bad problem. It could poison you. You don’t want to hurt others. Because when you hurt others, you get hurt, too.
I could talk all day about the lessons and themes woven into the exciting story of, “The Different World.” Valerie, a human girl, had this inner struggle with envy. It is handled and portrayed in such a way that younger readers can understand. With examples and conversations about envy and how jealousy makes everyone involved feel… kids will be able to apply these lessons to real life. It also is a great tool for parents to spark up conversations with kiddos and help teach them right from wrong.
Another HUGE thing that I absolutely LOVED to see was the importance of prayer. Now, I don’t want to give anything away, but when the Foxlings spent time in prayer... it may have been a favorite part. Here are these fierce warriors taking the time to pray to the Man in the Sky. It gives such an incredible image for kids—that when they are scared, when they feel like they can’t do something or things are too big for them, they can talk to God and find comfort.
I love it when books aren’t just there to entertain, but to teach and to leave a lasting impression on readers. That’s when you know the words are truly worth reading.
MY RATING:
5/5 Ya’ll, I highly recommend, “The Different World.” If you have kids, even if you don’t. It doesn’t matter. This is a book you won’t regret reading!
Violence: 2/5 – General fantasy violence. (Swords, magic, etc.) Nothing graphic or gratuitous.
Age Recommendation: 9+
"The Foxling: The Different World" is a fantastic read for fans of "Narnia" or "The Wingfeather Saga." The magical world, powerful themes, and fun cast of characters will entertain readers and inspire them fight for what is right.
BUY THE BOOK:
Buy "The Foxling: The Different World" HERE
FIND THE AUTHOR:
B.W. Luby at www.foxlingstudios.org
IG @B.W. Luby
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