Humans have disappeared from the world of ‘The Underfoot’ (Lion Forge), and the animals have somehow gained their intelligence. Every species has its niche, and the hamsters are mercenaries, skilled fighters and tacticians who are also awfully cute. Writers Ben Fisher and Emily S. Whitten and artist Michelle Nguyen have built an intricately detailed world, filled with remnants of human culture that have been transformed into something new and strange. This is the first book of a planned trilogy, but it stands well on its own. (Ages 9-13, $12.99)