Written by Jess French "Beast Lands" is a fantasy adventure novel for readers in the 8-12 year age range. Firstly, the cover illustration caught my eye. It's colourful and well designed and enthuses the drama locked away in the pages of the book. Jess has masses of animal expertise and this is harnessed within the pages and translates through to the thrilling Beast Lands and its magical creatures. The three young adventurers who experience this wonder place are the loveable Kayla, Rustus and Althea with whom I believe young readers would form a bond. The novel is descriptive and well written and flows at an enjoyable pace. Although I'm much older than the target audience I felt I was being swept along by the adventure and really experiencing all that it had to offer. Jess French has written other well received children's books and this is another hugely enjoyable read to add to that portfolio.