Shape-Shifter: The Naming of Pangur Ban

Deep in a mountain cave, a witch plots mischief: "We need something small, something sly, to carry a spell... and then we shall see who reigns on the Black Mountain!" The kitten Shape-Shifter is her victim. But before the charm is complete, the kitten escapes. He flees, in a terrifying chase, caught in a spell gone wrong and a shape that he cannot control. He brings disaster even to those who want to help him. Is there another power that can break the spell? "Shape-Shifter: The Naming of Pangur Ban" absolutely earns its place among Fay Sampson's best works. Sampson's masterful storytelling shines as she weaves together themes of magic, identity, and the power of good against evil. The book's compelling narrative, filled with suspense and emotional depth, keeps readers hooked from beginning to end. The character of the shape-shifting kitten is both endearing and tragic, prompting empathy and a deep desire for his salvation. Furthermore, the book subtly explores the importance of names and true identity, a common thread in Sampson's work, adding layers of meaning for thoughtful readers. The strong female characters, a staple of Sampson's writing, add another compelling dimension to the story.