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Writer's pictureLisa

Young Adults and Middle Grade Readers: Who Are the Arborels?

Updated: Dec 11

In Benedict Bagshaw and the Arborels, the mysterious Arborels play a central role in the unfolding adventure. But who, or what, are these strange beings? If you’ve picked up the book, you’ve already caught a glimpse of their world, but there's much more to the Arborels than meets the eye.



The Arborels: Benedict Bagshaw and the Arborels


A Glimpse into the Arborels' World

The Arborels are not your average magical creatures. They hail from a hidden realm, one that exists alongside our own but remains invisible to most. Benedict, our unlikely 14-year-old hero, first encounters the Arborels when they appear in his bedroom and whisk him away into their world, turning his already strange day into an extraordinary one.


But what do the Arborels want from Benedict? Why have they sought him out, of all people? These questions form the backbone of the story, pulling readers deeper into the mysteries of their world.


Guardians of Nature and Magic

The Arborels are protectors, deeply connected to nature and the magical forces that govern their hidden realm. Their name itself, "Arborels," suggests a link to trees and the natural world an important theme throughout the novel. Think of them as guardians, but not of gold or treasure; they protect the balance between their magical world and the human one.


Their realm is a place where magic runs wild, but it needs careful stewardship. The Arborels are tasked with maintaining this delicate balance, and it’s a responsibility they don’t take lightly. This duty is what draws them to Benedict in the first place though why they need him is a mystery that unravels as the story progresses.


The Arborels’ Connection to Benedict

Benedict is an average kid well, sort of. He’s insecure, anxious, and not at all the hero type. But for reasons unknown to him (and, at first, to us), the Arborels believe he’s the key to helping them protect their world. When they arrive in his life, it’s not just for a quick chat they pull him into a larger conflict that tests his courage, determination, and understanding of the world around him.


As Benedict gets to know the Arborels, it becomes clear that these creatures are more than just magical beings they’re deeply connected to him, too. The relationship between Benedict and the Arborels is central to the novel’s themes of growth, responsibility, and discovering one’s potential.


Unique Powers and Abilities

The Arborels possess unique abilities that set them apart from the typical magical creatures found in children’s fantasy books. Their powers are closely tied to nature, with the ability to influence the environment around them. They can command elements like wind and water, manipulate plants, and even harness the energy of the earth itself.


But their magic comes with limitations. The Arborels don’t wield their powers recklessly they understand the importance of balance. Their abilities are a reflection of their deep connection to the natural world, and they use them sparingly to avoid disrupting the fragile equilibrium they work so hard to maintain.


Allies or Enemies?

At first, Benedict isn’t sure what to make of the Arborels. Are they trustworthy? Do they have his best interests at heart, or are they simply using him for their own purposes? As readers, we’re right there with him, wondering what’s really going on in their world and whether Benedict can truly trust these strange creatures.


The Arborels may be the protectors of their realm, but they’re also complex characters with their own motives and secrets. Their intentions aren’t always clear, and part of the fun of Benedict Bagshaw and the Arborels is uncovering the true nature of these enigmatic beings.


Why the Arborels Matter

The Arborels aren’t just a magical plot device they represent something bigger. In Benedict Bagshaw and the Arborels, they symbolise the connection between humanity and nature, and the importance of protecting the natural world. Their story mirrors the struggles we face in the real world when it comes to balancing progress and preservation, making them not only intriguing characters but also a metaphor for a deeper message within the book.


What’s Next for the Arborels?

Without giving too much away, the Arborels are sure to play a vital role in Benedict’s journey, not just in this book but in future adventures as well. Their world, their magic, and their connection to Benedict are part of a larger story that is only just beginning to unfold.


Will Benedict rise to the challenge and help the Arborels protect their realm? And what other secrets about the Arborels will be revealed in the process? You’ll have to read on to find out.

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