Predator vs. Prey: Going Wild, Book 2 Lisa McMann – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Predator vs. Prey: Going Wild, Book 2 Lisa McMann

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

book2018

83%

WISE Score

4.8

Amazon

Animal superpowers meet middle-grade team dynamics in this fast-paced sequel that's part science lesson, part superhero showdown.

Predator vs. Prey: Going Wild, Book 2 Lisa McMann

book

2018

83%

WISE Score

4.8

Amazon

Animal superpowers meet middle-grade team dynamics in this fast-paced sequel that's part science lesson, part superhero showdown.

4.8

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Screenwise Verdict

This is exactly what it promises to be: a fun, fast-paced middle-grade adventure that sneaks in science education while delivering superhero thrills. McMann understands her audience—kids who want action and humor without being patronized, who'll absorb animal biology facts because they're embedded in cool powers rather than textbook boxes.

It's not going to win literary awards or spark deep philosophical conversations, but that's not the point. This is solid popcorn reading that keeps kids turning pages while actually teaching them something. The teamwork themes are genuine without being preachy, and the animal-power concept is creative enough to stand out in a crowded middle-grade market.

Perfect for kids transitioning from early chapter books to meatier novels, especially reluctant readers who need plot momentum to stay engaged. The 4.8 Amazon rating suggests kids actually like it, which matters more than critical acclaim at this age.

Age Fit

Solidly aimed at 8-12 year olds who love action, animals, and superhero teams. The reading level, humor, and stakes are calibrated perfectly for upper elementary/middle school. Younger siblings might enjoy it as a read-aloud if they can handle mild peril.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Strong themes of friendship, teamwork, and family loyalty drive the story. Charlie works to rescue her abducted father while helping friends master their powers. The narrative emphasizes cooperation over competition, problem-solving through collaboration, and supporting others through challenges (like Maria dealing with side effects). Age-appropriate emotional stakes without being overly dark or manipulative.

Imaginative

Genuinely creative premise combining animal superpowers with middle-grade adventure. The bracelets granting specific animal abilities (with real biological facts woven in) spark curiosity about nature while delivering superhero action. Each character gets unique powers to explore, and the series explicitly highlights 'unbelievable (and completely true) abilities that animals possess.' The Avengers-meets-Animorphs comparison is apt—it's familiar enough to be accessible but fresh enough to feel original.

Safe

Common Sense Media rates this appropriate for middle-grade readers with no significant content warnings. Action and peril are present (masked figures, abduction plot, 'beastly foes') but handled at a Marvel-movie level—exciting without being graphic or traumatic. The 'hair-raising side effects' and device malfunctions are played for humor and tension, not horror. No sexual content, strong language, or graphic violence. Completely safe for the target age group.

Enriching

Sneaks in genuine animal biology education through the superpowers—kids learn real facts about animal abilities while enjoying the adventure. Builds problem-solving skills and teamwork concepts. Characters face consequences and must work through challenges methodically. However, it's primarily entertainment-focused rather than deeply thought-provoking. The ethical dimensions are straightforward (rescue dad, defeat bad guys) without much moral complexity. Still, solid enrichment value for the age group through science integration and character development.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Teaches real animal biology through superpowers—kids absorb actual science facts while reading action scenes
Strong friendship dynamics with characters learning to work together despite different abilities and personalities
Fast-paced plot keeps reluctant readers engaged while building vocabulary and reading stamina
Lisa McMann (Unwanteds series) knows how to write middle-grade adventure that doesn't talk down to kids
Diverse team of kids with different strengths models collaboration over individual heroics

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What to Watch For

Abduction plot and 'masked figures' create tension—fine for most 8+ readers but may worry sensitive kids
Book 2 in a series, so jumping in here means missing context from book 1 (though McMann recaps enough to follow along)
Action-heavy with less character depth than some middle-grade fiction—this is popcorn reading, not Newbery material

Conversation Starters

"If you could have any animal's superpower, which would you pick and why? What would be the downsides?"
"Charlie has to help her friends figure out their powers before they can rescue her dad. Have you ever had to wait for help when you really needed it fast?"
"The book talks about real animal abilities. What's the coolest animal fact you learned? Want to look up more about that animal?"
"Kelly thinks her bracelet is a dud. Have you ever felt like something wasn't working for you when it worked for everyone else?"

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