Review: The Underland Chronicles by Suzanne Collins

Title: The Underland Chronicles (5 Books)

Author: Suzanne Collins

Publisher:  Scholastic 

Release Dates: Various (2003-2007)
Pages: Various (309-412 pages, depending on book)

Lexile Measure: 630-730

Age Range: 8+

Goodreads Rating: 3.96-4.24 stars
My Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Summary from Goodreads: (Book #1 - Gregor the Overlander) When eleven-year-old Gregor follows his little sister through a grate in the laundry room of their New York apartment, he hurtles into the dark Underland beneath the city. There, humans live uneasily beside giant spiders, bats, cockroaches, and rats—but the fragile peace is about to fall apart.

Gregor wants no part of a conflict between these creepy creatures. He just wants to find his way home. But when he discovers that a strange prophecy foretells a role for him in the Underland's uncertain future, he realizes it might be the only way to solve the biggest mystery of his life. Little does he know his quest will change him and the Underland forever.

Rich in suspense and brimming with adventure, Suzanne Collin's debut marked a thrilling new talent, and introduced a character no young reader will ever forget.

OUR TAKE

This series is a fantastic read for kids who love fantasy books! In Gregor the Overlander, a young boy finds himself in a mysterious underground world full of giant rats, bugs and cockroaches and a strange race of people who he hopes will help him find his way home.  But, soon Gregor learns that he just may be the key to an ancient prophecy and he reluctantly finds himself on a quest to save Underland. Each book in the series sends Gregor on a new quest, each time with new prophecies guiding him. If the prophecies are to be believed, only he can restore balance to Underland - but can the prophecies be believed?

The series takes the reader on many adventures with lots of twists and turns along the way. These books will take your child on a magical journey and inspire imagination.  A wonderful read!

4.5/5 stars