BLOGS > SEPTEMBER 1, 2025
Welcome to another installment of What We’re Reading, a space where we share the titles we’re currently devouring – especially the ones that transport us to magical worlds filled with mythical creatures and daring adventures.
This month, we’re diving into Impossible Creatures (Book 1) by Katherine Rundell, a standout in the YA fantasy book scene. We’re reading it in anticipation of the September 11 release of The Poisoned King (Impossible Creatures, Book 2) – one of the most anticipated YA fantasy books of 2025!
Whether you're a fan of middle grade fantasy books, mythical beasts in fiction, or just looking for a new series to add to your students’ fall reading list, these are for you.
Impossible Creatures (Impossible Creatures, Book 1)
By Katherine Rundell
Ever since Christopher was born, animals have unnaturally and unexplainably sought his attention. His father claims it's something to do with his scent, but when Christopher goes to stay with his recluse of a grandfather – and a stampede of magical beasts almost tramples him – he learns the truth. He is a descendant of a family of guardians to a secret world called the Archipelago, a collection of islands where all the creatures of myth and legend are real and in danger.
The Poisoned King (Impossible Creatures, Book 2)
By Katherine Rundell
Christopher Forrester woke to find a dragon chewing on his face – and his heart leapt for joy! He'd been dreaming of going back to the Archipelago, the secret cluster of islands where all the creatures of myth still live, and here was his summons. But there’s a poison spreading in the Archipelago. Rooting it out will involve a daring rescue mission on the back of a sphinx, a stealthy entrance to a dragon's lair, and a death-defying plan to save a prisoner held in the heart of a castle. At the center of this storm is Anya: a small girl with a flock of birds at her side, a newly hatched chick in her pocket, and a ravenous hunger for justice.
Got questions about our series installments or curated book lists? Let’s find the answers together!
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