I was surprised at the complexity of this story. I was expecting a lighter and simpler story, considering this is a book about only animals targeted towards younger readers. The different storylines were told well and were kept interesting in both their imaginative points as well as the nuance of the situation.

I liked that the Sorceress had such a tragic backstory, and that she wasn't just a simple evil-doer. She (and her partner) were definitely sympathetic characters. It was a good touch to also show that the protagonists, who are against what she is doing now, acknowledge that they can sympathize with her, too, and have to question not only whether her past actions were fully justified, but whether they would have done the same had they been in her position. The trope of fulfilling one's own prophecy through trying to avoid it was done here, although it isn't talked about too much. It's just something I find satisfying.

The inclusion of some illustrations was helpful. When some of the characters are first introduced, it is a bit hard to remember who is what kind of animal, but the occasional illustrations of the situations were nice.

I wished there was more of a conclusion to the story, but I still overall enjoyed it. I think this is a good story for younger readers who are interested in fantasy and would like to start venturing into the more epic variety.