This summer we have had plenty of time to read and play games. It’s such a lovely time and we’re a little sad at the thought of returning to the hectic school routine next week. Today we are taking part in the blog tour for The Wild Before, a stunning prequel to the bestselling and beloved The Last Wild trilogy, which explores the topical yet timeless themes of environmental awareness, friendship and hope.

Torday’s award-winning storytelling – which has earned him the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize and a CILIP Carnegie Medal nomination – builds an unforgettable world of classic folklore and extraordinary adventure that has captivated readers of all ages.

The Wild Before by Piers Torday

We hadn’t come across any of the previous books in the series so were excited to get our hands on a copy of The Wild Before. The story follows a pure white calf which is born on an ordinary muddy farm by the light of a silver moon. Legend has foretold that if the calf dies, a great terribleness will come so Little Hare is determined to protect the animal at all costs, but he may be the only one.

The first thing we noticed about the book was the gorgeous illustrations.

According to the author he first had “the initial idea for The Last Wild in 2002 – now, twenty years later and inspired by the urgency and fearlessness of Greta Thunberg, I knew it was time to return to the climate change debate. As we face a race against time, the power of stories can change and save our world – one of wildness, beauty, and love. In The Wild Before that tale begins with quite possibly the bravest little hare that ever lived.”

 

The Wild Before

One frosty winter’s night, a pure white calf is born on an ordinary muddy farm by the light of a silver moon. This is the legendary Mooncalf, whose arrival has been foretold since the dawn of time. According to a dream passed down from animal to animal, if the calf dies, a great terribleness will come – rising seas, a plague, skies raining down fire, the end of all things… and Little Hare vows to persuade all the animals to protect Mooncalf, whatever the cost

But it’s easier said than done, and soon Little Hare realises that he is the only one who can save the world.

It’s a lovely story and I really enjoyed reading it with my 9 year old. The story is really topical and perfect for children who love a good story, animals and the world around them. It has definitely inspired us to get our hands on The Last Wild trilogy.

The Wild Before was published on 19th August by Quercus Children’s Books priced £12.99. It is perfect for ages 9 and over.

The Wild Before book tour

Today we are taking part in the blog tour for The Wild Before. Don’t forget to take a look at the other reviews by looking out for the #thewildbefore on socials.