Benji Zeb Is a Ravenous Werewolf

Gr 5 Up--In Moulton's latest, Jewish traditions and werewolf mythology blend seamlessly to create a compelling coming-of-age tale. Benji Zeb is overwhelmed. Faced with the strain of navigating his Modern Orthodox Jewish upbringing on a rural Washington kibbutz/wolf sanctuary and escalating threats from an antisemitic neighbor, Benji has barely had time to prepare for his upcoming bar mitzvah. Thankfully, the kibbutz's true purpose remains secret: a safe space for its residents, who are all werewolves. School presents its own set of problems for Benji. He's terrified of losing control and accidentally transforming in front of everyone. To make matters worse, his former friend (and secret crush) Caleb Gao has turned into an arrogant bully. When Caleb unexpectedly arrives at the sanctuary as a fellow werewolf, distraught and terrified of returning home, he desperately needs Benji's help. Though he's initially wary of Caleb, the two forge a sweet bond as they work to confront the threats to their town. The title may mislead readers into expecting chills and gore, but what the book lacks in horror it makes up for with nuanced characters and a thought-provoking take on antisemitism, bigotry, and the power of acceptance. Benji and his parents are cued as white, Caleb is of Chinese descent, and there is a diverse cast of kibbutz residents offering a contemporary, multifaceted exploration of marginalized perspectives. VERDICT Highly recommended for readers looking for a unique take on the werewolf trope. Readers will root for the gentle and introspective protagonist.--Alia Shields

White-cued Benji Zeb--on the cusp of making his bar mitzvah--is struggling to keep many secrets as well as live up to the expectations of his kibbutz family. His first secret--he and his Modern Orthodox Jewish brood are werewolves who also operate a wolf sanctuary--is the least of his worries. It's the fact that Benji has a crush on former friend Caleb Gao, who is of Chinese descent, that makes Benji nervous. Caleb was one of few people Benji was confident being himself around, but when the new school year starts, Caleb inexplicably begins ignoring Benji. Moreover, tensions have increased throughout Benji's rural Washington town, which is facing financial challenges. Hoping to incite further upheaval, Caleb's white farmer stepfather engages in racist, antisemitic, and homophobic rhetoric that threatens the Zebs' livelihood. Moulton (Don't Want to Be Your Monster) explores relevant issues surrounding anxiety, faith, prejudice, sexuality, and prioritizing others' safety over personal comfort in this allegorical creature feature. It's a heartening tale, ferried by Benji's sincere first-person POV and enlivened by his endearing interactions with Caleb. Abundant back matter includes a Hebrew and Chinese glossary, author's note, and anxiety resources. Ages 10-14. Agent: Rena Rossner, Deborah Harris Agency. (July)