The Forests of Silence, the first book in the Deltora Quest series by Emily Rodda, is an enchanting and thrilling adventure that will captivate readers of all ages. The novel follows the journey of Lief, a young boy from the kingdom of Del, who sets out to retrieve the seven magical gems that were stolen from the Belt of Deltora by the evil Shadow Lord. With the help of his friends, Barda and Jasmine, Lief travels through the dangerous and mysterious Forests of Silence, facing a variety of perilous challenges and meeting strange and magical creatures along the way. The world-building in this book is exceptional, with Rodda’s vivid descriptions bringing the landscapes and creatures of Deltora to life in the reader’s mind. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Lief being a particularly likable and determined hero. The story moves at a brisk pace, with plenty of action and suspense to keep readers engaged from beginning to end. Overall, The Forests of Silence is a captivating and imaginative novel that will appeal to fans of fantasy and adventure. It’s a perfect read for young adults and children who love stories of magic, quests, and bravery.