For the child who feels like an outsider or longs to find their place. This fantasy adventure explores friendship and self-acceptance in a world where magic is fading.
A parent should reach for this book when their child feels like an outsider, especially due to a physical difference or a sense that they can't keep up. The Forest of App tells the story of Nob, a boy with a crippled leg who is abandoned by his nomadic people. He is discovered and welcomed by a found family of magical creatures in a forest where the magic is mysteriously fading. Together, they embark on a quest to restore it. This gentle, classic fantasy for ages 8-12 explores deep themes of loneliness, belonging, friendship, and self-acceptance. It’s a comforting choice that validates feelings of being different and shows that true strength and a true home can be found in unexpected places.
Characters face some tense situations and challenges on their journey through the forest.
Sensitive Topics
The book deals directly with physical disability and the resulting parental/community abandonment. The approach is emotionally direct, focusing on Nob's deep pain and loneliness at the start. It is a secular story. The resolution is entirely hopeful: Nob does not get magically 'cured', but instead finds a new family that loves and accepts him as he is. He learns that his perceived weakness is part of who he is and that he has other, more important, strengths.
Ideal Reader
This book is perfect for a thoughtful, introspective child aged 8-11 who feels left out or believes they are not 'good enough'. It is particularly resonant for a child navigating a physical difference or disability, or any child who feels they can't measure up to the expectations of their peers or family. It suits a reader who enjoys classic, character-driven fantasy over high-action plots.
Parent Prep
The first chapter, which details Nob's abandonment, is emotionally stark. A parent should consider reading this chapter first to be prepared for questions and to offer comfort. The rest of the book is a gentle adventure that can be read without further preparation. A parent has just heard their child say, "Why am I so slow?" or "No one ever picks me for their team." The child may be avoiding group activities or expressing feelings of frustration and loneliness related to being different from their peers.
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-9) will connect with the found-family theme, the magical creatures, and the straightforward adventure plot. They will understand the core message of kindness and friendship. An older reader (10-12) will better appreciate the deeper allegorical layers: the fading magic as a loss of hope or tradition, the nuances of Nob's journey toward self-worth, and the quiet power of accepting oneself, limitations and all.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many contemporary fantasy books, The Forest of App is a quiet, gentle, and deeply internal story. Its uniqueness lies in its folktale-like simplicity and its direct, compassionate handling of disability. The central theme isn't about overcoming a disability but about finding a community that renders the 'disability' irrelevant in the face of the character's true worth.
Read plot summary
Nob, a boy with a crippled leg, is intentionally left behind by his nomadic, storyteller tribe, the Nymen, because he slows them down. Alone and despairing in the Forest of App, he is found by a trio of ancient, magical beings: Minna, a practical witch-girl; Elbo, a grumpy but loyal elf; and Gwar, a kind-hearted dwarf. They take Nob in, forming an unlikely family. They soon discover the magic in the forest is fading, and together they must embark on a quest to find the source and restore it, a journey that forces Nob to discover his own unique worth and strength.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Nob's people, the Nymen, valued speed and storytelling. Why do you think they made the choice to leave him behind? Do you think a group is stronger if everyone is the same?
2
Minna, Elbo, and Gwar are all very different from each other. How do their different personalities and skills help the group succeed on their quest?
3
At the start of the book, Nob sees his crooked leg as his biggest weakness. By the end, what would you say are Nob's greatest strengths?
4
The magic in the Forest of App is fading. What do you think the 'magic' represents in the story? What actions by the characters help to bring it back?
