One of my 4th grade students gave this to me to read. It's an enjoyable animal quest fantasy. Many of the plot twists and rules of magic seemed convenient, and the characters are not well developed. Nonetheless, the story has enough ancient magic in our world to be interesting, and readers will surely find themselves looking at birds through a new lens. I would recommend Silverwing by Kenneth Oppel to anyone who enjoyed this book, as it's still the best animal fantasy ever written. Those who liked the riddles, puns, and wordplay in this book might also enjoy The Phantom Tollbooth. ( )

Gabriel Finley loves riddles because of his father. Ever since his dad went missing, Gabriel has lived with his aunt, but wishes for his dad to return. For his twelfth birthday, he receives his father's childhood journal. In it, Gabriel learns about the connection some humans have with ravens. He's amazed by what he reads, and discovers this relationship runs in his family. A baby raven, named Paladin, becomes Gabriel's amicus (like a familiar). Together they must embark on a journey to rescue Gabriel's father from the evil Corax and the valravens (cruel birds) that have him locked away. In order to save his father, an old and dangerous treasure called a torc must be located. This leads them to meet some interesting companions, who windup joining the quest. They'll have to find an entrance to an underground city and answer riddles to pass a gatekeeper. Will the group be able to answer the riddles or will their words fail? Is Gabriel's father still alive? Can the Corax be defeated on his turf? You'll have to read the book to find out!

I read Gabriel Finley and the Raven's Riddle by George Hagen because I love trying to solve riddles, so the title pulled me in. The book includes a lot of riddles, so make sure you put on your thinking cap. Gabriel is a kind character who treats others fairly. I really liked his friend, Abby, and his Amicus, Paladin. I thought it was interesting to read a book with characters that had such a strong connection to ravens. I worried throughout the book, because Gabriel seemed to be very trusting of others, even when they hadn't proven themselves worthy. This story will appeal to people who enjoy fantasy, plus a little danger. A great read for those in fourth grade and up! The book ended on a bit of a cliffhanger, so thank goodness the second book is out. I look forward to reading it (I just hope it doesn't end on a cliffhanger too). ( )

Middle grade fantasy about a boys quest to find his lost father. Gabriel discovers he has a strange connection with ravens, one in particular, when he begins to hear the birds talk. A series of adventures lead him to discover his family's affinity with the birds and the dark secrets his long lost uncle hid. I enjoyed this book but wished some of the supporting characters were a bit better defined. I think kids will really like it though. 3.5 stars. ( )

Gabriel Finley learns his missing father has actually been kidnapped by his uncle. The Finley family has a special relationship with ravens, and Gabriel's uncle has turned into an evil half man, half raven, obsessed with finding a magical necklace that grants wishes. Gabriel's father's raven has hidden the necklace, with clues that only Gabriel can solve. Gabriel and his raven Paladan go on a quest to rescue Gabriel's father. ( )