From the edge of Alvara, a broken figure rose-mud-covered, trembling, barely alive. It met Bakur the Buffalo's gaze for a heartbeat, whispered a word... and fell. Unmoving. Unbreathing. "Don't only look at what is near-see farther." - King Layan the Lion Beneath the full moon, the lords and common folk of the forest gathered before the King's den. Lord Mokaya the Monkey lifted Sairalin Thorya-the golden Crown of Elarin-and placed it upon King Layan's brow, marking the beginning of the Forest Council. "Bravery isn't only in claws or roaring. Sometimes, it's in speaking the truth-especially when it hurts." - Lord Balari the Bear Perched along the rim of a vast canyon and nestled deep within the endless Great Congorin Forest lies the Elarin Animal Kingdom-a breathtaking realm where ancient traditions shape every sunrise and every creature has a voice in the forest's future. Here, beneath towering trees and moonlit skies, lions, bears, foxes, tigers, elephants, monkeys, deer, and many more families gather to honor their shared wisdom and uphold the courage that binds them together. A New King for the Forest Crown invites young readers into a vibrant world of wonder, unity, and brave hearts. On nights when the full moon rises over the Elarin Forest, every animal-large and small-gathers before the Lion King's den for the Forest Council. There, beneath silver moonlight and the whispering canopy, they discuss the needs of the forest, settle disputes, and guide the harmony of their shared home. When the council concludes, the night transforms into a joyful celebration. Animals from every family feast together as one united clan. Young paws, kits, cubs, and fawns nestle close, listening to stories told by the wise elders. Firelight dances across their faces as they enjoy warm food, gentle laughter, and the timeless comfort of community beneath the star-filled sky. Perfect for ages 8-14, this heartfelt animal-fantasy adventure blends gentle moral lessons with rich worldbuilding and exciting discoveries. Fans of Warriors, Redwall, Spirit Animals, and The Lion King will fall instantly in love with the Elarin Forest-a place where: - every creature has a voice - every clan has a story - every choice shapes the forest's destiny The tale explores themes that parents and teachers value deeply: - the importance of truth and integrity - standing up for others - respecting differences between families and viewpoints - the healing power of kindness and forgiveness - learning responsibility through small but meaningful decisions With memorable characters, layered emotions, and a world alive with tradition and mystery, A New King for the Forest Crown is an ideal choice for classrooms, libraries, book clubs, bedtime reading, and for any child who loves animal adventures with heart. The Elarin Forest is a warm, wise, and wondrous place-one that lingers long after the final page and gently nurtures a lifelong love for inspirational reading. A Note from the Author - To Parents and Educators This story was written to inspire children, but you may find yourself enjoying it just as much. Feel free to read a chapter alongside the child you share it with-you'll likely discover that the journey is far from boring. Author's Wish I hope every child might have a small library of their own by their tenth birthday- and that one of those shelves holds A New King for the Forest Crown. - Isla Claire Hartwell