Almost 20 years ago my family was in a bookstore looking for a book for my oldest daughter who was a tween at the time. I enjoyed reading the same books she did so we could discuss them. As we searched for the next book to read, she came across a book she had heard about from a friend. After reading the description, we decided to get it. She devoured the book. As soon as she was done, she wanted me to read it and as soon as I stated, I had a hard time putting it down. From that point on, my wife and the rest of my children–except for one, and we remind her about it–have all read this book as well as the rest of the books in the series. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull was the only novel that most of our family has read and continue to enjoy talking about. Therefore, when I learned that an illustrated version was being released for the 20th Anniversary of the original release, I could not wait to get a copy for my family.
What Is Fablehaven: The Illustrated Edition?
Fablehaven: The Illustrated Edition lets readers return to Brandon Mull’s magical world of Fablehaven, now brimming with stunning illustrations by award-winning artist Brandon Dorman. You can celebrate 20 years of Fablehaven in this gorgeous anniversary edition with all-new artwork that accompanies the original text. One hundred color illustrations opens your eyes to a secret wildlife preserve for jealous fairies, mischievous satyrs, plotting witches, spiteful imps, and dozens of other mythical and magical creatures, including a giant milch cow!
Follow Kendra and her brother, Seth, who have no idea their grandfather is the current caretaker of Fablehaven, as they face the greatest challenge of their lives to protect the sanctuary and save their family. Race with Seth through dangerous woods, dodging projectiles hurled by dark denizens of the forest. See the Fablehaven yard turn from a monochromatic garden with bees and butterflies to a brilliant, full-color oasis of colorful flowers and fairies. Watch Hugo the golem chuck pumpkins from one side of the page to the other. And witness Kendra fly with warrior fairies in a dramatic battle painting you’ll want to have framed on your wall. Experience the fun and adventure of drinking the milk for the first time with this oversized, deluxe-format edition, perfect to introduce the story to a child or thrill a dedicated fan.
Why Should You Read Fablehaven: The Illustrated Edition?
Over the past 20 years, I have read many of the books written by Brandon Mull. In addition to the Fablehaven series, I enjoyed the Dragonwatch series of five books that continues the story from Fablehaven. I also liked both the Five Kingdoms and Beyonders series as well. Yet the characters in Fablehaven and their story of a secret refuge for magical beings is still my favorite. Children can identify with the brother and sister who have two distinct personalities while adults will also enjoy the story as well.
Fablehaven: The Illustrated Edition is a beautiful presentation. The art on the dustjacket is the same as on the hardcover binding. The book is printed on quality glossy paper with text arranged in two columns per page which makes it easier for younger readers to track. The illustrations are incredible. Some are full-page with text inset while others wrap around the text. The first page of each chapter features a small illustration. The artwork really adds to the story and I believe it is why I am having a great time reading the story again.
Recently I was reading a book and my 4-year old grandson came up to me and asked me if I was reading a boring book or a book with pictures. I had to respond that to him it was probably a boring book since it did not have any pictures. As a high school special education teacher with students whose reading levels are far below grade level, I have noticed that these students struggle to stay focused on books without illustrations. As I was reading this book, I realized that the artwork did help me to stay more engaged. This illustrated edition just might be what some children need to help them visualize and stay engaged in the story whether they are reading it on their own or together with an older sibling or adult. I would like to try reading Fablehaven: The Illustrated Edition to my grandson in a few years and see how he does with the pictures since the story might be a bit too involved for him right now.
If you have not yet read Fablehaven, then I recommend it. While it is written at a middle-school reading level, younger children as well as older children and adults who enjoy these types of books will enjoy the story and the new full-color illustrations really bring this book to life. If you have read the book before and liked it, then be sure to add Fablehaven: The Illustrated Edition to your library. It has been almost two decades since I originally read it and I have thoroughly enjoyed reading it again with the beautiful illustrations. Shadow Mountain, the publisher, is planning on releasing illustrated editions of the other four books in the series and I can’t wait to read them and add them to my home library. Plus, Angel Studios is producing a full-length movie of Fablehaven which is slated for release in 2027.
Fablehaven: The Illustrated Edition is available from your local bookstore as well as from online retailers such as Amazon. The suggested retail price is $39.99.
Disclosure: GeekDad received copies of Fablehaven: The Illustrated Edition for review purposes.
