Moonrise
by Erin Hunter
8.58 / 10 43K ratings
- Language
- English
- Published
- 2005
- Publisher
- Harpercollins
- Pages
- 287
- ISBN
- 9780060744526
Six cats, having delivered a grave warning to their Clans, now face a treacherous journey home through unfamiliar mountain territories. Brambleclaw, Squirrelpaw, and their companions encounter the Tribe of Rushing Water, a group of wild cats with their own ancient beliefs and a desperate prophecy. The Tribe believes a silver cat is destined to save them from a fearsome mountain lion, and their focus turns to Stormfur, placing him in an unexpected position of responsibility.
Meanwhile, back in the forest, the Clans' world is crumbling under the relentless destruction wrought by Twolegs. With their home threatened and their future uncertain, the returning cats must navigate new dangers and make difficult choices. The fate of both the mountain Tribe and their own Clans hangs in the balance, demanding loyalty, sacrifice, and the will to survive.
Meanwhile, back in the forest, the Clans' world is crumbling under the relentless destruction wrought by Twolegs. With their home threatened and their future uncertain, the returning cats must navigate new dangers and make difficult choices. The fate of both the mountain Tribe and their own Clans hangs in the balance, demanding loyalty, sacrifice, and the will to survive.
Original edition
MoonriseOriginally published in 2005 English Harpercollins
Other editions (59)
Listen to the summary Narrated summary
The journey home for the six chosen cats - Brambleclaw, Squirrelpaw, Tawnypelt, Crowpaw, Stormfur, and Feathertail - is fraught with a weight heavier than any prey they might carry. They carry the knowledge whispered by Midnight, the ancient badger: their forest home is doomed, destined to be torn apart by the Twolegs. With this grim truth shadowing their paws, they begin the long trek back from the Sun-Drown-Place, not knowing what new trials await them in the vast, unfamiliar lands.
Their path leads them into the towering, unforgiving mountains, a place of sheer rock faces and echoing winds, far removed from the familiar scent of pine and leaf-litter. Here, amidst the crags and narrow passes, they stumble upon a hidden community of cats unlike any they have ever known: the Tribe of Rushing Water. These mountain dwellers live by their own ancient customs, guided by a Stoneteller and a deep connection to their ancestors, the Tribe of Endless Hunting.
The Tribe, however, is gripped by a chilling fear. A monstrous mountain lion, a terrifying beast they call Sharptooth, stalks their territory, preying on their kits and warriors alike. They cling to a prophecy foretelling that a silver cat will come to save them from this relentless terror. When the Clan cats arrive, the Tribe's gaze falls upon Stormfur, with his gleaming silver pelt, convinced that he is the destined savior.
Stormfur, burdened by this unexpected prophecy, struggles with the Tribe's unwavering belief. He is a RiverClan cat, loyal to his own, yet the desperation in the Tribe cats' eyes is undeniable. As Sharptooth's shadow looms larger, the Clan cats find themselves drawn into the Tribe's desperate struggle, agreeing to help them confront the formidable predator. Together, they devise a perilous plan to lure Sharptooth into a trap within a cave, hoping to end his reign of terror.
The air crackles with tension as the moment of confrontation arrives. The plan goes awry, however, when Sharptooth, cunning and swift, bypasses their bait and lunges for Crowpaw. In a heart-stopping flash, Feathertail, Stormfur's sister, understands a deeper truth about the prophecy. With a sudden, selfless leap, she throws herself into the path of the enraged mountain lion, bringing down a deadly stalactite upon them both. Her silver pelt, catching the dim light, confirms the Tribe's true prophecy as she makes the ultimate sacrifice, saving Crowpaw and the Tribe, though at the cost of her own life.
The remaining five Clan cats are left to mourn their lost companion, a profound grief settling upon them as they realize the true weight of their quest and the sacrifices it demands. With heavy hearts, they bid farewell to the grateful Tribe of Rushing Water and resume their arduous journey, the image of Feathertail's brave act seared into their memories.
Meanwhile, far away in their beloved forest, a different kind of darkness gathers. ThunderClan, along with the other Clans, faces a growing threat from the Twolegs. The forest echoes with the roar of their monstrous machines, tearing down trees and scarring the land. Prey is scarce, and the scent of fear hangs heavy in the air as the Clans' world slowly crumbles around them, oblivious to the questing cats' return.
As the five travelers push onward, weary but resolute, Squirrelpaw catches sight of the familiar Highstones, a beacon on the edge of WindClan territory. Home is almost within reach, yet the true challenge of their prophecy - finding a new home for their Clans - still lies ahead, a daunting task that awaits their return to a forest irrevocably changed.
Their path leads them into the towering, unforgiving mountains, a place of sheer rock faces and echoing winds, far removed from the familiar scent of pine and leaf-litter. Here, amidst the crags and narrow passes, they stumble upon a hidden community of cats unlike any they have ever known: the Tribe of Rushing Water. These mountain dwellers live by their own ancient customs, guided by a Stoneteller and a deep connection to their ancestors, the Tribe of Endless Hunting.
The Tribe, however, is gripped by a chilling fear. A monstrous mountain lion, a terrifying beast they call Sharptooth, stalks their territory, preying on their kits and warriors alike. They cling to a prophecy foretelling that a silver cat will come to save them from this relentless terror. When the Clan cats arrive, the Tribe's gaze falls upon Stormfur, with his gleaming silver pelt, convinced that he is the destined savior.
Stormfur, burdened by this unexpected prophecy, struggles with the Tribe's unwavering belief. He is a RiverClan cat, loyal to his own, yet the desperation in the Tribe cats' eyes is undeniable. As Sharptooth's shadow looms larger, the Clan cats find themselves drawn into the Tribe's desperate struggle, agreeing to help them confront the formidable predator. Together, they devise a perilous plan to lure Sharptooth into a trap within a cave, hoping to end his reign of terror.
The air crackles with tension as the moment of confrontation arrives. The plan goes awry, however, when Sharptooth, cunning and swift, bypasses their bait and lunges for Crowpaw. In a heart-stopping flash, Feathertail, Stormfur's sister, understands a deeper truth about the prophecy. With a sudden, selfless leap, she throws herself into the path of the enraged mountain lion, bringing down a deadly stalactite upon them both. Her silver pelt, catching the dim light, confirms the Tribe's true prophecy as she makes the ultimate sacrifice, saving Crowpaw and the Tribe, though at the cost of her own life.
The remaining five Clan cats are left to mourn their lost companion, a profound grief settling upon them as they realize the true weight of their quest and the sacrifices it demands. With heavy hearts, they bid farewell to the grateful Tribe of Rushing Water and resume their arduous journey, the image of Feathertail's brave act seared into their memories.
Meanwhile, far away in their beloved forest, a different kind of darkness gathers. ThunderClan, along with the other Clans, faces a growing threat from the Twolegs. The forest echoes with the roar of their monstrous machines, tearing down trees and scarring the land. Prey is scarce, and the scent of fear hangs heavy in the air as the Clans' world slowly crumbles around them, oblivious to the questing cats' return.
As the five travelers push onward, weary but resolute, Squirrelpaw catches sight of the familiar Highstones, a beacon on the edge of WindClan territory. Home is almost within reach, yet the true challenge of their prophecy - finding a new home for their Clans - still lies ahead, a daunting task that awaits their return to a forest irrevocably changed.
What other readers say
Liked
The book is largely praised for its engaging and action-packed narrative, with many reviewers highlighting that it keeps them immersed and often feels fast-paced. Readers appreciate the dramatic elements and the continued development of beloved characters, with Squirrelflight frequently singled out for her vibrant and relatable personality. The shifting perspectives between different cats, particularly those on the journey and those remaining in the forest, is a strong positive, offering a varied and enriching view of the world. The introduction of a new group of mountain cats and their unique culture is also a popular addition, bringing fresh elements and tension to the story. Many found the book's cliffhangers effective in driving them to continue reading, and the growing camaraderie among the diverse group of traveling cats was particularly well-received. Even for those re-reading the series, the book often provides a fresh and enjoyable experience.
Disliked
Conversely, some readers found the pacing inconsistent, describing parts of the book, particularly the initial two-thirds, as slow or repetitive, with a perceived lack of significant plot advancement. Certain characters, such as Stormfur and Leafpaw, were less favorably received, with some finding their perspectives or personalities bland, frustrating, or giving little insight into the wider events. Romantic subplots were occasionally criticized for feeling rushed or inauthentic, and some felt that character losses, while sad, sometimes lacked the emotional impact or dramatic buildup they expected. There were also criticisms regarding predictable plot devices, instances of characters withholding crucial information without clear reason, and a feeling that certain antagonist encounters were too brief or underdeveloped. Some long-time fans expressed a sense that the series, or this particular installment, might be losing its original spark or becoming less impactful compared to previous books.
In short
Despite these mixed feelings, the overall sentiment remains largely positive, with many reviewers continuing to enjoy the immersive Warrior Cats world, its dynamic clan system, and the overarching narrative. The book is considered readable and, for many, a worthwhile continuation of the series, often ending on an exciting note that leaves readers eager for the next installment. It is recommended for both devoted fans of the Warrior Cats series and newcomers looking for an adventurous animal fantasy. Readers who appreciate stories told from multiple perspectives, significant character drama, and a blend of action and emotional challenges will likely find this book appealing, even if some parts require patience.
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