The Dream Stealer

Gregory Maguire's "The Dream Stealer" transports readers to a northern Russian village stalked by the terrifying Blood Prince, an evil wolf said to steal souls. When the frightened adults are paralyzed by fear, two children, Pasha and Lisette, bravely decide to seek out the enigmatic witch Baba Yaga for help. This chapter book explores themes of courage, friendship, and the power of belief in the face of overwhelming odds, all while steeped in rich Russian folklore. It's a suspenseful adventure that encourages children to confront their fears and stand up for what's right.

Once every generation or so, a great wolf called the Blood Prince stalks the northern forests of Russia. The wolf's evil name runs so deep that he steals not only bodies but also souls, and rumour has it that he has set his sights on the fo rgettable little village of Miersk. The frightened villagers do their best to pretend there is no Blood Prince--that is, except for Pasha and Lisette. But what can two children do to stop such a beast?