A parent might reach for this book when their child is struggling with a complex identity or feels torn between two different parts of their family or culture. Based on the popular Ever After High series, this story follows Cerise Hood, the daughter of Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf. She lives in constant fear of her secret wolf heritage being discovered, a fear that intensifies when a mysterious beast threatens her home. The book gently explores themes of self-acceptance, family loyalty, and the courage it takes to embrace every part of who you are. It's a fast-paced, accessible fantasy adventure perfect for young readers navigating the feeling of being different and learning to see their unique qualities as strengths.
The core conflict revolves around identity, specifically a hidden, mixed heritage. The approach is metaphorical, using Cerise's half-wolf nature to explore the feeling of having a secret part of oneself that society might not accept. The resolution is hopeful and empowering, as Cerise learns that her 'beastly' side is a source of strength, not shame. The book's themes are presented in a secular, fantasy context.
Ideal Reader
This book is perfect for a 9 to 11-year-old who feels caught between two worlds, whether due to a mixed cultural background, divorced parents, or simply feeling like they have a 'secret' personality that doesn't fit in with their peers. They are likely a fan of fantasy and fairy tale retellings.
Parent Prep
The book can be read cold. The fantasy setting makes the themes easy to digest. Parents might want to be ready to discuss why keeping secrets can feel necessary but also burdensome, and how the things that make us different are often our greatest strengths. A parent has noticed their child feeling anxious about their family background or expressing a desire to hide a part of their identity. The child might say things like, "I'm different from everyone else," or worry about what their friends would think if they knew a family secret.
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-9) will primarily enjoy the mystery of the beast, the adventure, and the cool fairy tale high school setting. An older reader (10-12) will grasp the deeper metaphor about identity, the pressure of legacy, and the social complexities of hiding who you are.
What Makes It Special
While many books deal with being different, this one uniquely ties identity to a 'monstrous' or feared heritage. It provides a powerful, direct metaphor for children who may worry that a part of their family history or background is something to be ashamed of, and reframes it as a source of power and pride.
Read plot summary
In the world of Ever After High, Cerise Hood is the daughter of Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf. She carefully hides her wolf-like traits from her classmates. When a mysterious and frightening beast begins to terrorize the Enchanted Forest near her home, Cerise is drawn into the mystery. She must use her unique senses and instincts, the very ones she's always hidden, to track the creature and protect her loved ones, forcing her to confront her own fears about her dual identity.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Cerise always wears her hood to hide her wolf ears. Why do you think it is so important for her to keep this part of her a secret? Have you ever felt like you had to hide something about yourself?
2
When Cerise finally uses her wolf senses to help, it's a turning point for her. How does using her 'scary' side to do something good change how she feels about her heritage?
3
Cerise is the daughter of both Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf. How does she show qualities from both of her parents throughout the story?
4
Do you think Cerise should tell her best friends, like Raven Queen or Cedar Wood, her secret? What are the pros and cons of sharing a secret like that?
