Discover the origins of the warrior Clans in the third book of this thrilling prequel arc from mega-bestselling author Erin Hunter. The Dawn of the Clans series takes readers back to the earliest days of the Clans, when the cats first settled in the forest and began to forge the Warrior code.

The rivalry between Gray Wing and Clear Sky has driven a bitter wedge between the forest cats. As Thunder and Gray Wing struggle to find a peaceful path for the future, tensions are growing. What began as a misunderstanding between two brothers has spread far and wide—and now every mountain cat, rogue, and kittypet in the forest will be forced to pick a side.

Dawn of the Clans #3: The First Battle also contains an exclusive bonus scene and a teaser to Dawn of the Clans #4: The Blazing Star.

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Greed is only the beginning. There will be war.

The rivalry between Gray Wing and Clear Sky has driven a deep wedge between the forest cats. Now every mountain cat, rogue, and kittypet in the forest will be forced to pick a side.

Erin Hunter is inspired by a love of animals and a fascination with the ferocity of the natural world. As well as having great respect for nature in all its forms, Erin enjoys creating rich, mythical explanations for animal behavior. She is the author of the Warriors, Seekers, Survivors, and Bravelands series. She lives in the UK. Visit her online at www.warriorcats.com.

Wayne McLoughlin studied art at San Diego State University and has worked as a writer and illustrator for such magazines as * Esquire and * National Lampoon. His books for children include * Fireflies, by Alice Hoffman, * Here is the Wetland, by Madeleine Dunphy (both Hyperion), and * Loch,* by Paul Zindel. He lives with his wife and daughter in Bellows Falls, Vermont.