3 Reasons Why You Should Read Bravepaw #1: Bravepaw and the Heartstone of Alluria by L.M. Wilkinson, illustrated by Lavanya Naidu

What’s the book about?

A fully illustrated and brilliantly readable adventure full of magic and prophecy, quests, heroism and loyal friendship – the world of Bravepaw will hook young readers until the very last page. This is the stuff of legend.

Titch has always longed for adventure – just like the gallant mouse hero Bravepaw in all her favourite stories. But she is the smallest mouse in her family, living in a peaceful little village where nothing exciting ever happens . . . until DIRE TROUBLE comes to the Plateau!

Titch and her best friend Huckleberry must set out on a DANGEROUS QUEST to take the Heartstone to repair the crack in the heart of Alluria before the whole world breaks apart.

Can Titch ever hope to live up to the legend of Bravepaw?

Recommended for: 

Ages 7+.

Three reasons to read it: 

1. In the book, Wilkinson creates a richly imagined fantasy world in Alluria, complete with its own lore, magic, and mythical elements. The Heartstone of Alluria, a central plot device, hints at ancient powers and secrets that drive the story. This detailed setting invites readers to escape into a fully-realised universe that’s full of imagination.
2. Lavanya Naidu’s artworks add a visual dimension to the book. Through her vivid illustrations, Naidu enhances the reader’s experience by bringing the characters, magical elements, and the world of Alluria to life. Each artwork is expertly crafted and full of imaginative creativity, making Bravepaw #1: Bravepaw and the Heartstone of Alluria an addictive read.
3. The book explores themes of courage, friendship, and perseverance as Titch stands up for what’s right, even in the face of many daunting challenges. Titch’s relationships with other characters, like Huckleberry, also highlights the value of teamwork and loyalty. These themes are inspiring and educational, offering kids positive messages about bravery, personal integrity, and the importance of supportive relationships.

Buy a copy of Bravepaw #1: Bravepaw and the Heartstone of Alluria here.

About the author:

L.M. Wilkinson is the award-winning author of twenty books for children and teenagers, including A Hunger of Thorns, Deep is the Fen and How To Make A Pet Monster. She established the Inky Awards at the Centre for Youth Literature, State Library of Victoria. She has a PhD in Creative Writing, and lives in Melbourne with her husband, son, dog and three chickens.

Lavanya Naidu is a storyteller with a passion for building worlds and developing characters with heart. The twilight zone where they meet is where the magic happens! She is a graduate in animation film design and over the last decade has illustrated several children’s books, worked on games and animation production (television and film). When she isn’t drawing, Lavanya is collecting dinosaur models, embroidering, hiking, cooking and patting all the dogs. Lavanya grew up in Kolkata, India and now lives with her husband and their ever-growing collection of plants in Melbourne.