When Doug's father gets a grant to study a rare tree fungus, the family moves to an isolated forest area, rumored to be inhabited by a race of dangerous creatures called Beasties. Doug doesn't take the rumors seriously until he meets a forest ranger without an ear and a housekeeper without a nose. Then his younger sister, Colette, discovers a maze of underground tunnels behind their new home. They meet the Beasties and become embroiled in a battle between humans and non-humans. In this slick horror novel, Sleator creates a race of horrific creatures endangered by deforestation. Who are the true beasts--the humans who abuse the environment or the Beasties who mutilate humans to replace their own missing body parts? Doug can't imagine a reason to side with non-humans until the Beasties generously spare his life. Is it possible that the Beasties are more humane than the humans are? The shocking climax presents a whole new dimension to the idea of self-sacrifice. This is a suspenseful horror story that will make readers think as well as cringe.
Reader Reviews
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This book is fantastic. I read it in about 4 hours. I really think it should have a sequel and a movie. It's the best, with haunting characters and chills up your spine. It makes you think about what we're doing to the earth and how it harms other creatures.
Rating:
Name:
Scott
Hometown:
North Attleboro
Age:
13
Review:
This book was great. They should really make it into a horror movie.
Rating:
Name:
Margot
Hometown:
Atlanta
Age:
11
Review:
This is probably one of the best books I've ever read. It really makes you think about whose side you are on, the humans or the Beasties. I think it should be made into a movie!
Rating:
Name:
Danielle
Hometown:
Hardyston
Age:
14
Review:
This book is really good. Through the beginning to the end of the story I thought that Hollywood should make it a horror flick. It's great to read. You can learn a lot from it!
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