
Content levels
Trigger warnings
Protagonist archetypes
Synopsis
This is a fictional account of real historical incidents in 18th century france when a wolf ( or wolves) killed well over 100 peasants in wild areas of the Massif Centrale. Despite the mobilisation of massive resources the 'beast' continued to kill leading to risks of destabilisation in parts of the 'ancien regime'. No definitive explanation of these events ever emerged and in France this has led to a fascination with the whole episode which continues to this day.
Is Beast appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
This historical fairy tale retelling fictionalizes the real Beast of Gévaudan killings in 18th century France where wolves killed over 100 peasants. Expect strong animal violence and death throughout, though not graphically detailed.
What to know going in
This book has strong violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include animal death, death, and mass death (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Teens interested in dark historical mysteries and fairy tale retellings told from an unusual perspective will find this compelling.