Gabriel's father has been missing for three years. When Aunt Jaz gives Gabriel his father's childhood diary and then a mysterious key for his twelfth birthday, Gabriel begins to unravel the secrets of his father's disappearance. Both his father and his uncle (who also disappeared) had the ability to communicate with ravens. Gabriel believes that their disappearances are tied in to an ancient myth and sets off with his friends to find Aviopolis, and rescue his father. A fun, compelling, riddle-filled fantasy that draws from Norse Mythology. Recommended for grades 4-6.

Middle grade fantasy lovers will just eat this one up. Vivid worldbuilding, amusing wordplay, likable main character makes this a book that you won't want to tear yourself away from, but will encourage kids to read more. Every time I see a raven, I will always think "ravens love riddles."

I had requested this middle grade novel as a way to get my son interested in Harry Potter. We started reading Gabriel Finley and the Raven's Riddle aloud and as this being one of the few science fiction/fantasy books he was willing to try, it turned out to be pretty good. He enjoyed trying to solve the riddles at the beginning of the book, but then we both felt like the story dragged on. He received new books for Christmas and asked if we could put this down.

I'm sorry it has taken so long to review this title. I absolutely loved it and appreciate being able to have the opportunity to read it. Thank you.

This started out great. Original concept, fun (if uninspired) riddles. My kids loved it. Halfway through, however I was begging them to let me stop. I was so board. The pacing and plotting was at best meandering, at worst excruciating. Such potential rendered into a hot mess. Granted, I did read the NetGalley first reads version. Maybe he fixed it in prepub.

Captivating. Terrific. This book draws you into a creative, fully developed world. Did I say captivating? Eleven-year-old Gabriel discovers that he can form an amazing bond with ravens. He and his raven Paladin go on a quest to search for Gabriel's long-missing father. Ravens love riddles, and there are many of them to solve along this journey. An outstanding book, not limited to its intended age range.

An entertaining read for a younger audience - while I prefer reading YA/literary fiction, gradeschool fiction can be fun, and Gabriel Finely and the Raven's Riddle was not an exception.