This is Not a Werewolf Story by Sandra Evans - ESSENTIAL

Evans, Sandra This is Not a Werewolf Story, 336 pages.  Atheneum Books For Young Readers (Simon & Schuster) 2016. $16.99. Language: G (0 swears, 0 "f"); Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG-13.  

Shortly after the disappearance of his mother, Raul is sent to live in a boarding school during the week until his dad is able to come to grips with their new reality.  As Raul's dad's visits become more and more sporadic and finally stop, Raul decides it's time to take control of his own life and not be left to the whims of others.  Pretending his dad is meeting him at the bottom of the school drive, Raul slips out and spends his weekend hiding out in White Deer Woods.  It is here he discovers an old lighthouse and a secret about himself that only the magic in White Deer Woods could awaken.  As Raul tries to navigate school, friends, and a teacher who is bent on making his life miserable, the woods become his solace.  It is in the woods that Raul finds the comfort and answers he has been searching for.  

Evans re-telling of the french folk-tale "Bisclavret" is a unique blend of magic and mystery. The story tackles the subjects of bullying, betrayal, friendship and forgiveness without it feeling forced. It's well defined characters, heinous villain, and lots of plot twists make this a great book for adventure readers.

EL, MS -ESSENTIAL. Gina, Media Specialist