I thought this was a really good story with a strong lesson or maybe even moral. I think early "Doctor Who" did sometimes try to present a story that would teach a lesson and "The Savages" did that well without going overboard. Ian Stuart Black told the story well and gave his characters some life, even given the confines of a Target book.

There was a fair amount of running around, though what's "Doctor Who" without "chasing through corridors?" The story was very simple to follow and I think even the modern young audience would get the point of the story if they could sit through it. The end was somewhat poignant: even though I knew Steven would leave, it was so sudden that it came almost unexpectedly and felt almost like the Doctor was pushing him out the door. Still, I thought this was an enjoyable read. Suitable for young readers (say, age 9 and up) and highly recommended.