The Wolf's Curse was a poignant middle grade novel about death and life, love and loss, and so much more. The best things I liked about this book were -

1. The Narration - When I saw that the narration was pitched as a cross between The Book Thief and A Series Of Unfortunate Events, I was (naturally) a little skeptical. But believe me when I say the narration was the best thing about this book – it was just so good. Told from the POV of ‘the Wolf’, the distant third person narrative was definitely worthy of being compared to The Book Thief.

2. The Writing style. O-kay. I probably made a mistake by saying that the narration was the best thing in the book, because now I want to say that the writing style was the best. But wait, here me out. The writing style was extremely enjoyable (what with all the snarky comments in parentheses)

3. The themes of death, grief and acceptance - A lot of the story was about death – how our main character Gauge struggles to comes to terms with his grandfather’s death, how his friend Roux does the same after her father’s death and the Wolf after her daughter’s. Watching as each the trio navigates through their grief was an endearing yet enlightening experience, one that I strongly suggest you have. As a middle grade novel, I was impressed by how it didn’t shy away from these heavy topics.

4. It talks about dealing with false rumors and superstitions - The village in which Gauge lived – and naturally the village in which the entire story is set, had extremely superstitious and narrow minded residents, so one important message this book sends across was about confronting ancient practices and superstitions and trying to be more open-minded.

It iss certainly unique for a middle grade to deal with topics like death and loss and grief. The entire storyline was a perfect atmospheric mythological fantasy and the concept of it all intrigued me so much. A 4 stars out of 5!

I would like to thank Book Forward Friends and Netgalley for providing me an ARC of this book.

I loved it. It was different and so captivating. I started reading this book when I was in a bit of a reader's block and this book saved me from it. The writer tells us a story about a wolf that was once human and is now helping souls cross over. The whole aspect of the story is just simply amazing.

The writing style in this book is different from what I am used to reading and it took me some time to get used to it. But the writer did an amazing job at bringing this story to life. This is one of those books that people of all ages can read, which just makes me love it more.

After losing his beloved grandfather, Gauge is forced to go on the run when the mayor declares he is a voyant and seeks to execute him. Gauge, in fact, is the only one who can see the feared Great Wolf. He eventually meets Rioux and her father, who are not as close-minded as the superstitious townsfolk. They offer concealment, friendship, and help.

The Wolf’s Curse embraces a somewhat whimsical tone, coming straight from the Wolf’s perspective. I loved that we saw everything through the Wolf’s eyes. Her snarkiness added flavor as well!. This storytelling method certainly made the narrative seem more magical.

I think Jessica Vitalis’s heart in this story was admirable and true. There are some beautiful, touching lines that capture the essence of grief quite well and I do believe using fantasy to help children (as well as adults!) process grief is a wonderful idea. However, I expected something significantly more adventurous. It did not feel as if much happened in this story. There was a great deal of focus on death and grief with very little action.

I also didn’t feel enough background information was given into the folklore embraced in the novel. While it added to the suspense of the Wolf’s true purpose, the obscurity made things confusing and I don’t feel there was enough resolution for all that was left unsaid throughout the story.

The ending did help improve my overall feelings about this book, but I’m sad that I hadn’t loved the rest more. I’m not sure how middle graders will perceive The Wolf’s Curse, but perhaps it will work better for its target audience.

I am immensely grateful to Books Forward, Greenwillow Books, and NetGalley for my digital review copy. All opinions are my own.

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑾𝒐𝒍𝒇'𝒔 𝑪𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆 is wonderful! It's beautiful, full of adventure,  thoughtful moments, and a tale about family, friendship and grief.

𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆:
— I love the sly and snarky narrator, the Wolf which somehow reminds me of The Book Thief. We get to know the MC, Gauge, through the eyes of the Wolf. The narration made me laugh, tear up a bit, and sad. Seeing how their story develops is so satisfying.
— the world-building is richly imagined and unique yet still remains as familiar to its readers.
— the vocabulary, customs and superstitions, pronounciation footnotes (!!) are well done. It's detailed yet it never felt overwhelming.
— The two young characters are likable and relatable. Their struggle to find their place and acceptance in an adult world is realistic.
— it deals with death, grief, and closure skillfully and delicately. It shows us that acceptance, friendship, and family can come in different ways.
— fast paced, lyrical, and unputdownable. THIS BOOK IS PERFECT.

I love the characters so much and the writing stule is so beautiful and lyrical!! ots the perfect middle grade book that i love children will love

This book does not shy away from death. Gauge is a young boy who has been ostracized from his community because several years before, he saw a wolf. Not an ordinary wolf, but one wrapped in superstition, believed to be the herald of death and a thief of souls. Gauge was then hidden from the community and sheltered by his grandpapa, but when his grandpapa passes away, Gauge is left on his own and must face the world once again. This was a compelling read, with themes of grief, friendship, found family, and courage at its core. Roux, the Blacksmith's daughter who shelters and befriends the now-hunted Gauge, is a steadfast companion who teaches Gauge what it means to be brave.

The writing was lyrical and immersive, and the omniscient narrator (the wolf) is delightful while also secretive. Cons (while trying to avoid spoilers): I do feel the ending is a bit rushed, especially since the main characters go to such great lengths to prove that what they've always been told is a lie, and then seem to immediately believe the next thing they're told without questioning. Also, it would have been helpful if the adult who ultimately becomes the children's "savior" (and the reason they escape the fate the local Lord/law enforcement commanded) had deeper moments of reflection on what she'd learned from the children, ultimately leading her to make the decision to step in and prevent their sentence from coming to pass. As it is, the ending feels very tidy but could have delivered a bit more, thematically, if the characters were pushed to examine their beliefs/their social structure/the situations they're facing a bit deeper.

This is not a book I'd recommend to young readers who are experiencing grief themselves. Death is portrayed realistically, with three descriptive on-page deaths (a grandfather, a father, and a woman), one past death (of a child), and a few other deaths (sailors drowned in the sea) mentioned. Rather, this is a book I'd recommend to children who are interested in historical fantasy, lore, superstitions and mythology in a fantasy world, and who want to read about characters faced with seemingly impossible odds.

The Wolf’s Curse is the story of 12-year-old Gauge, a Voyant capable of seeing the Wolf, a mysterious creature who accompanies death. In the superstitious village of Bouge-by-the-Sea, people believe that Voyants have the ability to call and control the Wolf, therefore they must be punished and put to death. Gauge’s life is forever altered when, after the death of his grandpapá, Gauge is accused of calling the Wolf. All alone, Gauge reluctantly joins forces with Roux, a clever young girl from his village. While learning to face their grief, the two orphans go on a fantastic adventure to uncover the truth about their town, death, and the Wolf.

The Wolf’s Curse is a potent and lyrical story that is both complex, moving, and entertaining. Gauge’s story is told from the omniscient perspective of the Wolf: a snarky but tortured narrator who slowly opens up to the reader. Vitalis does a wonderful job of exploring and developing her characters. This book is especially powerful because the characters are so genuine and relatable. The pain that Gauge and the Wolf experience is raw and honest, and readers of all ages will be able to connect to them. Gauge and the Wolf are not only emotionally complex characters, but the reader sees them learn and grow as the story progresses. The characters’ transformations stem from their shared grief of losing loved ones. The reader is able to see how the Wolf and Gauge move past their losses and experience the growth that allows for a beautiful ending to their story. The Wolf’s Curse really explores the idea of death and grief, and what exactly that looks like for people of all ages. Jessica Vitalis’ novel is a perfect addition to the middle-grade fantasy genre.

The Wolf’s Curse releases September 21, 2021.

​​(Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing us with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change upon final publication.)

For the past seven hundred winters, the Great White Wolf has ferried departed souls to the Woods Beyond. Despite the magic that sustains her, the Wolf’s body is becoming creaky and tired, and replacements are few and far between. Twelve-year-old Gauge has always been able to see the Wolf, though his ability to do so has struck fear in the hearts of those in his home of Bouge-by-the-Sea. When his grandfather is no longer able to protect Gauge from the judgemental eyes of the other townspeople, Gauge finds himself uncovering truths that make him question everything he thought he knew about life and death.

This middle grade story is striking both in its message and in its delivery. Told from the perspective of the Wolf, both an omniscient narrator and an active character in the story, the narrative takes on a unique flavor and personality. Many odors are described within the text, emphasizing the profound smelling ability canines possess. Readers reside squarely inside the Wolf’s observations as the rest of the story is delivered as if seen through a window. Though the worlds of Gauge and the Wolf seem starkly divided at first, time and acceptance help them to unite by the story’s end.

Though Bouge-by-the-Sea is a fictional place, this story possesses strong French influences, particularly in the words and names intrinsic to this locale. Likewise, similarities can be found between how the people of Bouge-by-the-Sea approach death and how real cultures around the world do so. While death can be a challenging subject for middle grade readers, books like this help them understand it better whether or not they are experiencing loss themselves. Many of the stages of grief are depicted through this story, and the book’s presentation leaves readers with a sense of calm no matter their personal beliefs.

Readers of all ages will fall for this captivating story that embraces the universal human emotions that come from love and loss. Its unique delivery personifies death in an accessible way, encouraging readers to question what they think they know about death and find their own truth in the process. Expertly written, this narrative keeps readers engaged and lingers with them long after the satisfying conclusion. This is a highly recommended addition to libraries for middle grade readers.

I'm so glad that I was trusted with a digital copy of this book. Thank you BFF Books and NetGalley for giving me this amazing book! When I first heard that the story would be told by the wolf itself - who refuses to acknowledge, that in some ways, she is the 'villain' - I couldn't help but be very excited to read it.

I don't think I've ever read a book whose story was told by the "villain" instead of the "hero" and it was a pleasant experience, I wish there were more books like this one and I hope that the author writes a sequel - which I'd definitely read.

Looking for a fantasy book that explores questions of death, grief, justice, and family? What about a story that shows youngsters finding their own strength, doing what they feel is right and forming friendships that carry them through hardships? The Wolf's Curse tells of Gauge, an apprentice carpenter accused of calling the Wolf and causing the deaths of villagers. Just because he can see something supernatural he is shunned and condemned. Without a family to shelter him and the Lord Mayor out for blood, how will one lonely boy survive?

Jessica Vitalis does an excellent job of world building. Descriptions of the Release, the funeral rites of the villagers, are intricate and detailed. When characters discuss where souls go after death, the underpinnings of a complete belief system are laid out. The sights and smells of the village create a clear sensory impression of the marketplace and the alleyways. And the various characters show the variety of personalities and reactions one would expect within a community.

I enjoyed the descriptive language throughout the book. Gauge’s “wish is threadbare, worn from several winters of use.” Later he ponders that “Passions must be like trees - they come in all different shapes and sizes.” The Wolf tells readers that “success smells of eggs and sugar - like a custard but stronger and laced with berries.” The imagery is a treat to enjoy.

Readers will come to understand that “it’s the dark that makes the light shine so brightly.” And isn’t that what we all want - a story that may take us through some darkness, but that will let the light fill our hearts?

Thanks so much to Books Forward PR, HarperCollins and Jessica Vitalis for this eARC 🥰

One of my goals this year was to read more MG books and this one just ticks all of the boxes. It’s a little darker than I thought I would get but it’s a real unique take. It’s a short book but its intensity and the unorthodox narration really gave me life!

I just remembered that this is a debut novel and I truly commend the author for taking me in a whole other world with this piece.

Just finished reading THE WOLF'S CURSE by Jessica Vitalis. Thank you to @harpercollinsca via @Netgalley for my ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. Official publication date is September 21st, 2021.

I fell in love with the characters 🤗

#BookReview 📚
Gauge our 12 year old MC has been cursed with being able to see a wolf in a superstitious town where seeing a wolf means you are extremely bad luck and are ostracized from society. When Gauge's grandpa dies he is left all alone with no place and no one to turn to, until he meets an new friend who is going through a similar experience. They will join forces to figure out why only Gauge can see the wolf and what seeing it really means?

A fast paced story for those looking for a standalone fantasy, with characters to root for. This is a story about loss, death, and friendship that you won't be able to put down. Definitely recommend and look forward to future work by Vitalis!

THE WOLF’S CURSE is the author’s debut MG novel and tells the story of a young boy ostracized by his community but whose loyalty to a friend puts his own life at risk as he attempts to avenge her father’s death. Written from the perspective of a unique narrator, this story looks at death, loneliness, love, loss, friendship and the collective power of a community for good and evil.

The Great White Wolf is the narrator of this story. She’s done her job of collecting souls to take to the Woods Beyond for hundreds of years, and she wants to pass along the responsibilities to someone else. Only a Voyant can see her, and when Gauge demonstrates this ability as a child, it frightens the townspeople of Bouge-By-The-Sea. Gauge rarely leaves his grandpapa’s woodshop, but when the Wolf comes to take his grandpapa’s soul after his death, she hopes that he will open Gauge will be open to accepting her job. Instead, Gauge fills with anger, and a bounty on his head forces him to seek shelter with the Blacksmith and his daughter, Roux. Together, Gauge and Roux try to figure out a way for Gauge to escape the town, but another death further complicates their plans. The pair decide to trap and kill the Wolf and expose the secrets about the after-death rituals in the community to clear Gauge’s name. But the Wolf has plans of her own, and Gauge’s life in danger any way he turns.

The Wolf was a very clever and original narrator and provided a lot of snarky humour. The perspective allowed the reader to learn more about characters and their situations which enriched the story. I enjoyed watching the change in her connection to Gauge and how that storyline developed. I also loved the relationship between Gauge and Roux and their loyalty to each other. Gauge and Roux’s similar circumstances bond them but also illuminate their different statuses in the community despite their similar economic situations. I appreciated the author demonstrating this disparity and how a lack of understanding and empathy led to the townspeople’s harsh treatment.

I think young readers will enjoy this story which feels like historical fiction with a touch of magic. I would recommend it for Gr. 5-7, but the length and heavier nature of the story would suggest it’s best suited for upper middle grade readers.

I love going into books without knowing without a synopsis. I was surprised to see that the book was simultaneously in first and third person as the Wolf is telling the story of Gauge while also telling her own story. I loved that she could hear and understand everything that was going on in the character's heads and how she didn't interfere with what was going in in Gauge's life. She allowed him to figure things out on her own and was able to learn a thing or two from him that she hadn't learned in the 700 winters since she became the wolf. There were so many surprises in the book that it kept me interested and I ended up falling in love with this book.

Thank you to the author and Books Forward PR for providing me with an ebook in exchange for my honest review.

This book was just beautiful, I loved it! I really enjoy reading middle grades and finding treasures that I can save for my daughters for when they are old enough and this one will be at the top of that pile.

The Wolf’s Curse explores grief, love, loss and loyalty with beautiful prose. There is a rich background of wolf folklore in a well explored world.

My favourite part of this book however was the friendship between Gauge and Roux. It was so heartwarming and tender and everything that you could want in a middle grade.

Trigger warnings: Death of a loved one, self-harm, alcohol (mentioned), hallucinations, religious persecution, police brutality and terminal illness.

This middle grade tale is a book that someone of any age should read and will enjoy. The story of Gauge, a young boy who is dealing with the death of his grandfather, and the grief that goes along with that kind of loss. On top of this emotion, he has to deal with being ostracized by his community who thinks he has sabotaged the way to paradise, the Sea-in-the-Sky. In order to return home and be accepted, Gauge and his friend go on a journey to prove his innocence. And all along the way, The Great White Wolf, the divine entity who takes spirits to their final rest, narrates. How wonderful is that? The protagonist of a folk tale narrates the story of a boy who is competing with the real life consequences of a folk tale. It's wonderfully meta. More than that, it is beautifully tragic, lyrical, and instructive. It is a story that children need to hear from a fantastical voice, yes, but also a voice that holds enough authority to be trustworthy. Vitalis paints both life and death as adventures, and real places where we can belong. There is nothing to fear here. There is only known and unknown, seen and unseen. It is a gift!

I cried when I finished this book. At it's core, under the beautiful writing and the witty Wolf, is a story about grief. How it leads to anger. How the rituals we have are for ourselves because they help the living and how tenuous an understand children have of it. And how it feels to have a scapegoat for your grief when it's just too much.

We follow Gauge, a boy of twelve winters, who is apprenticed to his grandfather, a carpenter. Gauge's mother died, or, set sail, before he was old enough to have any memories of her. All he's had is his grandpapa and, to his anger, a White Wolf.

The people of this port town have such an interesting social set up. Since their city runs on fish and the oceans, a lot of their dialogue and idioms are about water.

Setting Sail is passing away while being set to sea is to be killed. Literally put on a boat with no oars and set out into the ocean.

Gauge is the only person who can see the wolf making him a Voyant. Someone that the city believes calls the wolf and controls it to kill people.

While he can see the wolf, he cannot control her. He wishes she would leave him alone. Gauge blames her for the fact people hate him and fear him. After he saw the wolf for the first time when he was younger things went south. I can't get into it without spoiling things and I don't want to spoil any aspect of this story.

It's a short read but that by no means makes it an easy one.

I don't do well with grief and death. Reading this brought up memories and fears and trigger panic attacks for me. And that is absolutely not something that the book should have warned me about. It's about grief, that's pretty obvious and I as a reader took responsibility by reading it. And I'm glad I did.

We get so see a lot of growth from Gauge as he grows and learns things about the village and his grief. He makes a friend in the blacksmith's daughter, Roux and the two are there for each other no matter what. Even at the risk of each other's lives.

Seeing Gauges anger and eventual acceptance was incredible. It touched me and I think there are a lot of children who could benefit from a read like this although they may need to be a little bit older to really get it and not get distracted by the invisible wolf.

The story is told from her point of view and her personality is great. She's witty, a little snarky and smart. I also loved the pronunciation guide at the back of the book. Every bit of it is laced with personality. It was great.

A five (5) star read for me. The people in the book are diverse. Their skin being described without any of the harmful stereotypes that still permeate fiction. There's good growth and the characters are active. They don't get steered along by the plot, they make things happen by being involved.

A great read.

I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for access to this ARC in return for an honest review.

The Wolf’s Curse is a lovely story of grief and friendship with a creative and snarky narrator. Bouge-by-the-Sea, is one of the most immersive settings I’ve ever read. The world building was detailed in the most wonderful ways; from the descriptions, the mythology/belief system, and the individual words and slang the characters used.

he story is beautifully written and tackles grief in an accessible manor for children and adults too. I was swept away by Gauge and his Grandpapa’s relationship, I enjoyed becoming friends with Roux, and I’d like a ticket to sail to their village to see the feathers, shell mirrors, blacksmith and carpentry, please.

Most of all, the Wolf stole my heart..

A fabulous middle grade novel! Not only was the character development extraordinary but the plot, setting and overall writing was absolutely fabulous! I adore retelling and come on? Who wouldn’t root for the villain here?!

With thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's Books for an early copy in return for an honest review.

4.5 stars for this excellent debut book. I liked the unique narrator (told from the POV of a snarky wolf). I also enjoyed the changing relationships between different characters...the wolf and Gauge, Gauge and Roux, Gauge and the people of the village. I greatly appreciated the sense of setting and felt truly immersed in the world of Gatineau. And I liked how this book dealt with loss in an age appropriate way.

Due to the length and more mature content of the book (it deals with heavy themes), I would recommend this book more for upper middle grades (grades 5-7).