Review – Flight of the Phoenix (Nathaniel Fludd, Beastologist, Book 1) by R. L. LaFevers (4/5 stars)

I got this book as an advanced reading copy through the Amazon Vine program. It is the first book in a series targeted at children. Previously I have read LaFevers Theodosia series and I enjoyed that series. This book is a short chapter book and was a very quick, fun read; as an adult it took me maybe 30 minutes to read.

Nathaniel never sees much of his parents; they are always off exploring and he’s been left behind. Then a message comes that they have been “lost at sea”. Suddenly Nathaniel’s life is turned upside down and he is sent to live with his Aunt Phil. Aunt Phil immediately whisks him off on a crazy adventure to take care of a Phoenix. Ends up Nathaniel is the most recent of a long line of Beastologists.

This was a great kids book. It was fast-paced, creative, and both Nathaniel and Aunt Phil are likable characters. In some ways this book reminds a bit of the Spiderwick Chronicles. The chapters are fairly short and there are pictures throughout. This would be a great book to introduce a kid to chapter books. Kids that love animals, travel, and adventures will love this book. The story is concluded nicely, but there is room left for more books in the series.

A wonderful, creative book in a great new series. Anyway who likes the Spiderwick Chronicles or the Fablehaven series will like this book. The reading level is much easier than the Fablehaven series. I am looking forward to more adventures with Nathaniel and Aunt Phil in the future.