It seems that almost every book is part of a series these days. There’s a downside to that: isn’t there anything original anymore? But there is an upside, too.
When you want to hook a developing or struggling reader, series give them fast-paced stories with relatable characters they will grow to consider friends. It doesn’t hurt to mix in a little humor, too.
Sigmund Brouwer’s Timberwolf series has been creating bookworms since September 2006.
Meet Johnny Maverick, Stu Duncan, and Tom Morgan. Johnny and Stu have been friends for life and play on the Timberwolves hockey team. Tom Morgan just arrived in Howling, Toronto, Canada. He joins the team, but theirs is not an instant friendship. Tom is bent on picking on the overweight Stu; but by the end of Timberwolf Chase (Book One), Tom has learned some valuable lessons about friendship and teamwork.
Next time around, in Timberwolf Revenge, Johnny is Tom’s target. Tom makes the first move, playing a practical joke on Johnny. Then its Johnny’s turn … and it keeps escalating. When Tom outsmarts him one last time, Johnny finally gets the message that revenge isn’t the answer.
In each of these lightly illustrated novels, the story is fast-paced. There are peripheral characters – like parents and coaches – but most of the action centers around Johnny, Stu, and Tom. Here are some of the other reasons this series stands out for me …
![Timberwolf Rivals]()
There are humorous events and pratfalls kids love – like hooking Johnny’s shorts, tied to a fishing line, so that when he runs the race his shorts come down. [Timberwolf Challenge]- Life lessons relevant to preteens are woven into every story. From the choices and consequences of their actions to how to be a good Samaritan, these are examples kids can relate to and emulate. [Timberwolf Trap]
- The boys’ competitive spirit is obvious … and so is the result of being too competitive. Each of the boys get their “come uppance.”
Although it might seem from the first two books I described that Tom is the main character, the stories are told through Johnny, and each book opens with what he’s doing. The key is that readers will be able to relate to each of the three protagonists.
Even as a ‘girl’ I enjoyed the series, but I’ll admit that it will more likely appeal to boys grades 3 to 6. If you’re looking for books for older readers that have that fast pace with life-lessons, I’d recommend the Orca Currents series. Here are previews for two of the newest titles.
Power Chord
by Tom Staunton
At a Battle of the Bands event, Ace and his best friend Denny notice that girls like musicians, no matter how dorky the dudes might be. Since they have been severely challenged when it comes to meeting girls, they decide to start a band. Ace discovers that he loves playing guitar and electric bass and Denny tweets their every move. Ace tries to write a song that will win at the next local teen songwriting contest. It’s more difficult than he thought it would be. When Denny brings a great tune to rehearsal, Ace is devastated that Denny, who rarely practices, is a better songwriter than he is. The contest is only days away when Ace discovers that Denny stole the song, and Ace has to decide if winning is worth the lie. (publisher summary)
Pyro
by Monique Polak
Ever since he was small, Franklin has been soothed by fire. Staring into the flames helps Franklin forget his problems. And right now, he’s got a lot to forget. Franklin’s mother has left the family home to be with her hairdresser boyfriend. Franklin’s father, the mayor of Montreal West, is too busy worrying about his public image to do anything about the family.
As a rash of local fires competes with upcoming elections for media attention, Franklin’s father has to work hard to keep the public happy. And Franklin has to reconsider his romance with fire. (publisher summary)
The Orca Currents series offers older readers (middle school) fast-paced stories that meet their interests. Unlike Timberwolf, each of these books introduces new characters. Yet just like Timberwolf , there are thought-provoking moments that readers will find relevant to the ir own lives.
