The Great Escape (Wolf Girl 2) by Anh Do

What worked:

Readers need to know that Gwen was left alone four years ago, and she’s been living with four dogs ever since. The story follows Gwen, while other chapters cover the dogs, until the group is reunited. The dogs are of different species with their own unique personalities. Sunrise has known Gwen the longest, and she acts as the group’s leader when they’re separated from Gwen. Tiny is a Chihuahua and uses sensitive hearing to act as a lookout. Zip is a Greyhound with poor eyesight, and Nosey is a Labrador with a keen sense of direction. Brutus is a Mastiff and often has a grouchy disposition. The dogs are aided by an eagle called Eagle. Young readers will enjoy how Gwen works with her canine friends and Eagle to escape capture and search for her parents.

Gwen is taken to a guarded compound surrounded by a tall fence and confined in a small prison cell. She sees children her age laboring to break up rocks and then carrying them into a secret, walled-off area. Readers are left to imagine what’s going on in this compound and why she doesn’t see any adults, other than the guards. The author introduces a new character when a captive boy named Rupert gives Gwen some food. He’s punished for this act of kindness, but he becomes another ally for her. However, Rupert tells her a big lie, and Gwen must decide if she’s willing to forgive him.

What didn’t work as well:

This story feels like several chapters from one larger book. Readers must know for themselves what’s already happened. The book’s ending simply stops the action, so readers will need to read the third one to continue the story. Also, it’s unclear why the author called the wolf Puppy in the first book but changed it to Sunrise in the second.

The final verdict:

You should read Wolf Girl first, since this book picks up immediately where the first book ended. Readers may be disappointed with the plot’s resolution, but in the end, this book is a fun, fast-paced story. 

Spindlewood by Freddie Kölsch

What worked:

The synopsis shares the overall conflict, but the author introduces more immediate problems for Lilac. She pretends to see a ghost to save her uncle’s séance, and the family assumes her abilities have surfaced. She learns her mother was a Seer, as are her uncles and grandmother today. They immediately assume Lilac will attend Spindlewood, but she can’t find a good opportunity to tell the truth. As a chronic skeptic, she’s curious about going to a school where everyone thinks they can see spirits. Lilac figures she can fake her way through classes until she encounters a bombshell complication. How can she fake her way through an aptitude test that will reveal the strength of her Seer powers?

Lilac is roommates with three other students, and they welcome her into their Pretty Posse. Lilac immediately feels conflicted, because the Posse is jealous of Em, the first girl she meets. Em is a True Seer, which means she can see ghosts without performing the ritual that all others must do. This makes her a target for her schoolmates, since she is studying independently from everyone else and seems to receive special treatment. However, Lilac takes the time to talk with Em and realizes True Seers live hard, lonely lives. Spindlewood has the highest concentration of ghosts in the world, so Em sees and hears them everywhere. It’s overwhelming. Isn’t it ironic that a skeptic and non-believer like Lilac becomes friends with a True Seer? Lilac’s struggle to keep her secret from Em continues throughout the book. Her school adventure leads to hidden secrets and a trip into the Beyond.

The author establishes the groundwork for future events when the instructors go over safety requirements for all seers. Seers open doorways to see into the spirit world, but that opening also lets ghosts see into the world of the living. The greatest danger for seers is becoming possessed by a spirit, so students are taught four general safety rules. Most of the early chapters present reminders to readers that possession is extremely threatening, so it’s reasonable to assume it will happen to at least one character. The possibility will always be in the back of readers’ minds, and Lilac’s roommate, Chloe, is highly susceptible to possession. As they gain more knowledge, some readers may recall the strange behavior from one of Lilac’s uncles.

What didn’t work as well:

The entire story is narrated by a spirit, and this strategy works. However, it periodically feels the need to share word meanings using Oxford definitions. It’s an amusing strategy early on, but many times, it’s not necessary. Perhaps it’s safe to make sure all readers are aware of the definitions, but more capable readers won’t need reminders.

The final verdict:

It’s a creative twist to give all of the characters spiritual abilities, while the main character is the only one without. The author saves twists and surprises, as Lilac and Em connect cryptic clues that will lead them into a dangerous world. Lilac’s lack of seer ability creates tension that will continue throughout the whole book. I recommend this book for readers who enjoy ghostly mysteries and school drama. 

Pennies (Blight Harbor 4) by Lora Senf

What worked:

This book continues the Blight Harbor series, but it can be read independently. Magic is everywhere in the town, and it’s not necessarily good or bad. The story is told through the eyes of Mae, and she’s joined by three good friends, Claret, Brigid, and Lark. Brigid comes from a family of witches, while Claret comes from a family of vampires. Lark is the smallest member of the group, but she may be the most adventurous. Her father can sense the presence of holes, portals to the Dark Sun Side, and Mae’s father’s job is to seal them shut. No one knows anything about the Dark Sun Side, because those who’ve explored it never returned. Strangely, Lark tells the group about a new hole near her house, but her father doesn’t know it exists. Also, the adults begin to say John Heffrey Pope is a fine man when everyone knows he’s a lazy good-for-nothing.

Interestingly, ghosts are treated like ordinary characters. The girls have a secret clubhouse made from pieces of scrap wood and metal, and a ghost now resides in it. Graham was seven when he died, and the girls treat him like a little brother. Mae can usually hear most of what he says, but for some reason, she can’t now. The girls give Graham a hug and kind words, and Lark brings him her favorite teddy bear. The girls enlist advice from a ghost in Claret’s house, and he sends them to speak with twin ghosts. The twins lend valuable help to the girls to tether themselves to the living world before venturing into the Dark Sun Side. Mae and her friends encounter additional ghosts on the other side of the portal.

The conflict begins with the disappearance of Brigid’s cousin, Emilia, but other characters go missing, too. The girls venture into the hole and enter the world of the Clackity, although it makes an appearance in only one part of the story. Most of the story is set in this alternate world. Mae and her friends become lost, and they explore different tunnels, hoping for a way to find Emmi. The tunnels present different adventures, as the girls find creepy characters and settings in each one.  They discover Bridgit’s aunt is just as malevolent as Pope, although she may be even worse. However, Mae learns something unseen is going on in the Dark Sun Side that may be controlling the events. It’s hard to know who can be trusted on this side of the portal, and one misstep will leave Mae and her friends stranded here forever.

What didn’t work as well:

The girls immediately suspect John Heffrey Pope when Emmi goes missing. Authors usually try to mislead readers or keep them guessing, but that doesn’t happen here. Other twists await as the plot moves along, but Pope is always the prime suspect. It diminishes much of the suspense.

The final verdict:

This book is a companion to The Clackity, a finalist for a 2022 Cybils Book Award. The author is a master of description! The friends’ adventure becomes almost a quest, as the girls search for Emilia. The different tunnels present surprise challenges that put the girls in danger. Overall, I recommend this book for readers who enjoy creepy, spooky stories.

The Black Market by Jed Alexander

What worked:

It’s challenging to find the Black Market, since it deals in the trading of illegal goods. Patrons must know a secret password, and it’s full of shady characters. The vagueness of the market will pique readers’ curiosity, as the possibilities of evil and wrongness are endless. Martin’s aunt is a strange character, since she travels the world to remote places and rarely makes live appearances at Martin’s home. She gives him the idea of the Black Market, and her description only makes him want to go. She’ll be available to answer his questions until she suddenly leaves town for an unknown destination. Martin and his best friend, Jess, are left to figure things out on their own, and readers will want to know what otherworldly events are yet to come.

The Black Market and the Bag of Dirty Tricks are mysterious, but the author adds other elements of uncertainty. Martin recognizes the voice of a costumed character at the market, but he can’t remember the person’s identity. Readers know this person will reemerge later, and they’re left to wonder about the significance. Is it a coincidence that a stern librarian has taken over for the kind one the kids are used to? Sure, he’s scary, but a connection seems too obvious. Perhaps the voice’s owner is the new kid that Martin has run into a couple of times. Then, there’s the Bag of Dirty Tricks. Martin and Jess think the tricks are devious, and some of them are downright dangerous. How dangerous are they, and who deserves to become the victim of mean tricks?

Jess is an intelligent, loyal friend, and readers may think she’ll be a positive influence on Martin. She does that at times, but she also encourages him to make some ill-fated decisions. Jess is anxious to use one of the dirty tricks, but admits that it’s hard to think of someone they dislike strongly. She also recognizes that some of the tricks may be evil, so how do they choose one that’s bad, but not too bad?  Jess is the one who reads the rules and recipes about the tricks, and that knowledge will be important later in the plot. Martin and Jess decide to play a trick on Martin’s father first, but it doesn’t go as planned. They don’t know for sure if the effects will ever go away, but Jess is ready to pull another prank right away. Her influence on Martin is supportive, but perhaps she’s too enthusiastic.

What didn’t work as well:

It’s unclear why the author includes Malcolm in the story.  He always has a frown on his face and lurks on the periphery of the action. He helps Jess and Martin find a missing dog and makes an appearance at the very end, but he doesn’t contribute much toward the plot. The story wouldn’t be any different if he were removed from it.

The final verdict:

Like the Bag of Dirty Tricks, the book is spooky, but not too spooky. Once again, young characters make ill-conceived choices and decide they can’t ask anyone for help. It’s an appropriate book for Halloween or for readers who enjoy creepy stories, like the Goosebumps books. I recommend you try this book for yourself. 

Soccer Spacetastrophe (Quantum Interstellar Sports League 2) by J. Scott Savage

What worked:

The book is written in a combination of text and graphic novel. Most of the graphic sections are used during the soccer games which works out well. Describing game action can become tedious, so the blend of illustrations and captions avoids that problem. A narrator describes most of Wyatt’s story, and broadcast announcers enter to cover game-related information. Humor and the absurd are rampant in the book, so readers must have a tolerance for it. It begins with the strange cast of characters that team up with humans and oppose them in the tournament. They may have many appendages, unusual sizes and shapes, and others can even transform their appearances. Funny dialogue and situations add to the humor.

Wyatt is the main character, and he lacks self-confidence. He’s had a crush on his teammate, Nova, since he first met her in the first book, but his emotions are now a mess. He texts, sends emails, and gifts to her all summer, but he doesn’t get a single reply. He’s embarrassed that his messages are increasingly pathetic, but he can’t understand why she doesn’t want to communicate with him. Wyatt thought he did a great job as captain in the first book, but he’s immediately replaced by Nitro, the best soccer player on Earth. He feels worthless as a teammate, since he’s no longer the leader and doesn’t have any soccer skills. It takes him awhile to learn he can still help the team from the “backseat”.

The conflict develops additional tension by putting control of the earth at stake. A despicable alien named Schnozly Grofsplot returns as the main antagonist. Wyatt’s football team saved the planet in book one, but Schnozly’s lawyers find a loophole in the contract based on the word football. Schnozly is determined to take over Earth, so he won’t something like rules stop him. Readers can anticipate he’ll constantly find ways cheat, and this character doesn’t disappoint. There are conflicts within Wyatt’s team that are exasperated by an anonymous spy. The team dynamics are a highlight of the book. The site of each soccer match presents unique quirks and challenges, and Schnolzly’s immense wealth influences unexpected aspects of the tournament.

What didn’t work as well:

The author’s brand of humor won’t appeal to everyone. Much of it comes from zany situations, witty quips, and some of it borders on crass. However, young readers enjoy reading about things that might not be okay in real life. Amusement from the unexpected works.

The final verdict:

Readers can start the series with this book, since it provides a descriptive recap of the first one. The last page makes it clear that a sequel will be coming. I recommend this book for readers who enjoy levity and sports. 

Kid X (Boy 2.0 #2) by Tracey Baptiste

What worked:

This book is the sequel to Boy 2.0, so readers already know Coal can camouflage his appearance. He’s not exactly invisible since he casts a shadow in sunlight, but other people still can’t see him. He’s also staying in a foster home, but he likes his foster parents and their three kids. A major issue for Coal is his frustration and anger at not being independent from the control of others. He doesn’t have a say in where he lives, and an aunt shows up to aggravate the situation. She plans to force Coal into living with her next year, and Coal’s not sure how he feels about that. He wants people to listen to him before making decisions that will affect his life.

Coal’s foster family and his best friend, Door, now know about his camouflage ability, and that’s creating additional problems for him. His foster sister wants him to retrieve a pencil that was stolen by a classmate, but that’s only the beginning of his moral quandary. Getting the pencil back seems like righting a wrong, but what about actions like pranks? Coal realizes he must consider his morals and standards when using his camouflage. Ethics becomes a big issue in the plot, but for a totally different reason. The introduction of his aunt adds a change to the cast of characters, but it also opens the door for an unknown cousin. The story takes an unexpected turn that sends events out of control and will ultimately carry over to this book’s sequel.

Having a new, anonymous owner take control of Mirror Tech infuses a fresh mystique to the plot. Recall, the new owner’s alias, is never seen, but he (or she?) has eyes everywhere in the renamed company, Echo Biometrics. Recall has reassigned many of the former employees, and new cronies now control the camouflage technology. Also, news reports reveal numerous ghost “sightings” around town, and Coal knows he’s only responsible for one of them. Add in Coal’s antsy feeling that he’s being watched, and readers can deduce that someone else is moving around unseen. He discovers that one “ghost” moved his unconscious body to be rescued, so at least one must be friendly, right? What’s the explanation for these ghostly sightings?

What didn’t work as well:

It’s unusual for characters to tell others about their super abilities, so it’s strange to find Coal’s foster family, his best friend, and two characters from Mirror Tech know about his camouflage. Readers may wonder why characters in other books don’t ask for help, but Coal has ample support. His foster parents even know and are helping him manage his ability. It’s not necessarily bad, but it’s very uncommon in middle-grade books. Having a support team will be good in the long run.

The final verdict:

Readers probably don’t need to read Boy 2.0 first, but it will establish prior events more clearly. This book becomes an action-packed adventure story, and I recommend you give it a shot.

Bunns Rabbit by Alan Barillaro

What worked:

Bunns is a lovable, underdog character. Her short ears immediately make her different, and her parents are overly protective. They know the other rabbits are superstitious, and they don’t know how the Elders will react to her appearance. Bunns’ innocence and naiveté will cause readers to develop warm feelings for her and worry about her well-being. Bunns displays unexpected bravery when she leaves home alone to protect the rest of her family. Her curiosity, friendliness, and trust guide her through the forest, which she’s been told never to enter. Lingering insecurities complicate her life. Her adventure into the unknown soon becomes a quest to save the land and water.

The book’s format is unique, as it combines elements of a novel and a graphic novel. Side stories use many illustrations with accompanying brief text to describe the action. Several of these segments share folklore to establish the history of the world and introduce the Spirit Fox character. The main narrative often sounds like the retelling of a tale about Bunns and the Spirit of Land and Fire. All creatures fear the fox and are sure he will eat them or burn down the forest. However, the Spirit Fox takes an interest in Bunns, and their initial meeting takes on a friendly tone. However, Bunns inadvertently does something to anger the fox, and the rest of the story finds Bunn fleeing for her life. Will she be able to atone for her mistake in time to save everyone she cares for?

Bunns’ heartsong is an important element of the plot. It allows Bunns to sense others’ heartsongs and determines if they can be trusted or should be feared. All rabbits can hear each other’s heartsongs, but Bunns has a rare ability to hear the songs in other types of animals. No one has ever heard of that happening before. Rabbits and birds are not allowed to associate with each other, but Bunns becomes best friends with a hummingbird named Bee. She also befriends a loon they call Loon, and the three characters support each other with numerous challenges. Monarch butterflies always flock around the Spirit Fox, but Bunns is the only character able to hear the riddles that they sing. Bunns can’t figure them out, but they’re the key to resolving the plot’s main conflict.

What didn’t work as well:

It might be challenging to determine the appropriate target audience for this book. Bunns is a sweet, cute bunny, but that may not interest older readers. However, the story has deeper meanings and thinking that younger readers won’t understand.

The final verdict:

The deeper message in the story makes this book more fascinating than readers might first expect.  The adorableness of Bunns makes her very likable and relatable, and readers will root for her to overcome her issues with being different. I highly recommend you try this book for yourself. 

The Bionic Boy by Lynn Plourde

What worked:

Although Benji is the main character, his younger sister may be the most entertaining part of the book. Becka is in the first grade and has Down syndrome. Becka’s positivity and friendliness make it almost impossible for readers not to feel good. She says hello to everyone, and her smiling face spreads happiness to everyone she encounters. Becka gets very psyched to participate in the Special Olympics, and her performance there earns her a special honor. She loves Benji unconditionally, and they get along as well as any brother and sister.

Benji was born without hands, and his fathers adopted him into their home. They’re supportive and patient with him, especially as he battles his fears and lack of confidence. Benji is used to his lack of hands, but he’s uncomfortable when others stare at him when they first meet. Meeting a quadruple amputee inspires and excites Benji, but he’s too frightened to ask the man a single question. Benji fears anything he assumes he can’t do, but the staff sergeant’s speech at the Special Olympics gets Benji wondering. Is he brave enough to tackle difficult challenges, knowing that he might fail?

A subplot involves a new neighbor who seems to be angry all the time. Izzy makes it clear that she doesn’t want to be here, and she has no intention of ever speaking to Benji or Becka. Benji can handle being ignored by Izzy, but he’s very protective of Becka and her feelings. No one is allowed to hurt Becka! Readers will find Izzy is almost an unsolvable mystery, as she doesn’t offer any clues to explain her attitude.

What didn’t work as well:

The book’s first half focuses on Becka’s story rather than Benji’s. His handicap is put on the back burner until Benji is offered an opportunity to get bionic arms. However, Becka is delightful, so readers won’t mind the wait. Also, the reason for Becka’s grumpiness is predictable, especially as the author provides small clues.

The final verdict:

This emotional, feel-good story will appeal to readers who enjoy simple plots in a family setting. The topics of Down syndrome, physical disabilities, and adoption are large parts of the book. I recommend you try this book for yourself, but don’t be surprised if you shed a tear or two.

The Beasts of Winter: A Daggers of Ire Novel by J. C. Cervantes

What worked:

Fetch is changed into a fox by the Winter Witch, and she takes Fetch’s younger sister, Violet. The main focus of the plot is Fetch’s quest to rescue Violet, with the subplot being his attempt to stop Celeste’s trap during a festival. The journey includes stops with an oracle (or two if you count Beck), a ghost, a giant, and other magical characters. There are a few ambiguous clues or riddles, and a no-win situation. Fetch has doubts that he’s worthy of saving his sister, but he always follows his heart when making difficult decisions. He faces certain death times, but perhaps those situations weren’t as unquestionable as readers might think.

The author incorporates several elements to create underlying tension and a figurative countdown clock. Violet left behind a handkerchief with magical stitches that once belonged to their mother. The handkerchief is connected to Violet’s heart, but the stitches disappear each day to show the time left before losing her heart. Also, Fetch is unaware that he’s been possessed by a spirit called Malvada. Malvada is searching for someone more powerful to possess, but it’s draining Fetch’s magic while inside his body. Fetch becomes weaker but doesn’t know why. Readers will anticipate the moment when Fetch realizes Malvada’s the spirit within himself or when it finds a more powerful character to possess.

Fetch conjures a tiny bone dragon that may be the highlight of the story. It calls itself Beckblade, and it contributes amusement and mystery while becoming a loyal friend and protector to Fetch. It turns out that Beck’s dreams foretell the future, so readers get a hint of what’s to come. To add humor and novelty, Beck has narcolepsy, meaning he may fall asleep at any moment. His small size doesn’t keep him from performing brave deeds as various dangers arise. Other abilities arise to keep readers guessing. Beckblade always seems to find a way to bridge differences between characters or to bring reason to volatile situations.

What didn’t work as well:

A few questions remain once the conflict is resolved. Readers may want to know more about the dojee’s past after she finishes helping Fetch. Also, readers may be curious about Fetch’s appearance in the future. Perhaps, there’s a sequel in the works?

The final verdict:

This book tells a fun story about a Fox who is determined to rescue his sister and ultimately saves the kingdom. The conflicted main character’s quest draws in creative personalities, and the author inserts complications to increase the drama and tension. I highly recommend you give this book a shot!

Outside by Jennifer L. Holm

What worked:

The setting feels dystopian, as the characters live in a large mansion they call the Refuge. The kids don’t remember what happened, but the adults tell them that a Great Poisoning killed most of the people on Earth. Most of the characters haven’t ventured outside the Refuge because the Poisoned are lurking. The kids are taught the dangers of these infected humans and learn survival techniques in case they ever encounter one. However, Razzi remains curious about what she might find on the Outside. Readers will experience the shock she discovers on the Outside.

Razzi must have a heart transplant, and she develops subtle changes throughout the story. She hears a voice in her head that causes her to behave impulsively, and her hearing and eyesight become more acute. She’s especially attuned to nature, and she reacts strangely to her brother’s pet rabbit. Her parents and friends are confused by changes in her behavior, but they attribute it to puberty. Other traditionally peaceful animals seem to fear Razzi, and she’s even bitten on the finger. She envisions a greyhound in a cage and almost becomes obsessed with finding out what’s happened to it.

The plot addresses a couple of issues that may connect with many young readers. Razzi’s good friend Ollie dies from a terrible accident, and she often thinks about her life with him. Ollie was infatuated with the world outside the Refuge, and readers learn Razzi has developed the same curiosity. His death also makes Razzi the eldest child, and she’s expected to be responsible and perfect as the new First. The adults’ expectations are impossible to meet, and Razzi feels the pressure of being a role model for the younger children. Her fixation with the Outside, Ollie’s memory, and her behavioral differences cause her to make some irresponsible choices. Many readers will be the oldest kids in their families, and they can relate to the occasional unfairness that accompanies that role.

What didn’t work as well:

Readers may be curious about Razzi after the book ends. The changes she goes through after the heart transplant continue once the plot’s conflict is resolved. Do the urges and heightened senses continue, and do others still notice how they affect her personality? Razzi’s changes are the only element of science fiction in the book, which is confusing when reflecting on the overall story.

The final verdict:

Readers may have suspicions about what’s happening, but the plot’s resolution may still be a surprise. This book is reminiscent of a few other middle-grade books, but I recommend you try this one for yourself. 

Dawn of the Dragons (New Dragon City) by Mari Mancusi

What worked:

Most books depict dragons as huge, fire-breathing monstrosities, but Cinder is a young toddler in this story. Readers follow her for half of the book while a young human named Lucas shares the other half. Lucas rescues Cinder after she’s injured by a bear, leading to their unusual friendship. Most humans don’t believe in dragons, and the dragons know little about humans. Cinder’s point of view shows the dragons’ uncertainty about forming a peaceful alliance with humans, and they’re confusion while trying to understand human behavior. Dragons are described as sentient, loving, and fearful rather than mindless creatures of destruction.

Readers will understand the humans’ attitudes when curious visitors flock to town in response to dragon sightings. It’s reminiscent of vague UFO reports and people obsessed with aliens. YouTube quickly communicates rumors, leading to the town being overrun with conspiracy fanatics. The situation is fertile for misunderstandings and creates a conflict that’s threatening to erupt. Both sides mean well, but a lack of understanding between them undermines their efforts. Fear and anger only complicate the situation. Readers may see humans as the more conniving of the two groups, but you’ll need to decide for yourself.

What didn’t work as well:

The description of time passing seems off at times. The text may say a day or two has passed, but readers are left to wonder what happened during that time. Nothing seems to have changed, so it’s unclear why the text says time has gone by. Also, there are many minor characters, but Lucas is often alone. A brother and sister help him when needed, but it feels like they should have larger roles.

The final verdict:

Featuring an immature dragon will appeal to many young readers. Lucas and Cinder have a simplified view of the world, but perhaps adults can learn something from them. I recommend you give the book a shot. 

Lionborn by Sharique Zea

What worked:

The author establishes the plot’s foundation by jumping right into the drama. The prologue finds two evil protagonists standing over an infant’s crib, frustrated that they can’t penetrate his protection to take his blood. Readers learn that Abigor wants Fionn’s blood to resurrect powers that were lost many years ago. The setting quickly shifts to middle-grade Fionn when he discovers he’s a Lionborn, powerful creatures that were assumed to be extinct. His first inkling that his life has changed occurs when he sees a reflection of a lion cub where his own face should be. Fionn slowly realizes the meaning of being a Lionborn, but it’s later revealed that his best friend, Ella, has an important role too. A strange new student also appears, and he turns out to be an elf from the realm of Arborea.

Readers will root for Fionn, as he exhibits many admirable character traits. His bravery is repeatedly tested as he faces deadly beasts and other dangerous situations without knowing how he’ll survive them. He has an uncompromising need to protect others, even when it means he must sacrifice something he truly wants. He’s intelligent and determined as he faces seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Readers will feel sympathy for Fionn when he learns that he was separated from his real mother. Finding out what happened to her becomes an important quest.

Tiny is an entertaining character, and he becomes a loyal ally to Fionn. Tiny provides background information about Arborea, Abigor, and other things that arise. He tells Fionn and readers the dangers they can expect while Fionn navigates Arborea. He’s also the character able to open portals between worlds, allowing Fionn to move quickly to new settings. This ability eliminates the long, tedious traveling that characters and readers endure in some other books. Tiny adds levity to the story, especially when Fionn first visits his humble abode.

What didn’t work as well:

Fionn survives several perilous situations due to luck rather than his own conscious efforts. He can’t control his Lionborn powers early in the story, and they emerge out of necessity during critical moments. Other characters might appear at the right moment to save Fionn from being seriously harmed or killed. Readers might want to see the book’s hero more in control of his predicaments.

The final verdict:

This book presents an exciting start to a magical adventure series. It features a virtuous main character on a quest against evil and to discover an unknown family heritage. The author includes many twists and surprises to keep readers on their toes! I recommend you try this book for yourself.

Bridget Vanderpuff and the Great Airship Robbery 3 by Martiin Stewart

What worked:

Readers will enjoy the zany humor as Bridget thwarts evil efforts from the League of Meanies. The book opens with Bridget atop the bakery’s bicycle, chasing Hungry Horace Harris through the streets. Tom is on the back of the bike being traumatized, while Bridget enjoys every moment of the pursuit. Horace tosses all kinds of pastries at them, while Bridget pulls a variety of gadgets from her voluminous hair. Later, Bridget chases the Hood on the outside of an airship and scales the Eiffel Tower using handy, pastry-themed inventions. She often has witty interactions with the villains she faces.

Bridget is always supremely confident and enjoys every moment of her life. She rarely gets rattled, even when things don’t go as planned. Who else would have fun defying death while falling from tall structures? She has keen observation skills and notices details and connections others overlook. Think of her as a miniature Sherlock Holmes. There are a few times when it looks like she’s made mistakes, but things always work out. Afterwards, she always explains her thinking and logic, showing she knew what was happening all along.

Bridget and her father spend most of the story in Paris while leaving the bakery unattended. Actually, an invisible elf named Pascal is inside alone, and a subplot finds the League of Meanies attempting to ruin the business. Bridget gives Tom instructions on how to enter the bakery, but he wishes he knew what she would do to stop the Meanies. Meanwhile, Bridget tries to solve the mystery of her father’s stolen golden whisk, and the author inserts unexpected twists. Bridget follows clues all over Paris, but readers never know if the people she meets are allies or Meanies. Of course, Bridget declares that she can immediately spot the Meanies, even if readers might harbor doubts.

What didn’t work as well:

Some readers might not appreciate the cheesy humor, as the theme of baked goods runs throughout the story. The objective of the League of Meanies is to eliminate all good and kindness, so the conflict doesn’t generate much tension.

The final verdict:

This book can be read independently, even though it’s the third one in a series. Bridget is a delightful, confident detective, and her investigation is full of creative turns based on clues and characters. Overall, I recommend this book for mystery lovers with an additional taste for humor.