The Secrets of the Pied Piper #1: The Peddler's Road by Matthew Cody

My name is Carter, and I've been kidnapped. Actually, remember the story of the Pied Piper? It's true! My sister Max and I woke up in New Hamelin where the kids from the fairy tale haven't aged in 700 years. Lukas tells us about a prophecy saying I'm the one who will help them all escape their timeless existence and return to the Human world. However, I will first need to free the Piper from his prison. But how could the Piper have kidnapped me if he's still imprisoned in the Black Castle? The castle magically appeared on Lukas's map, so our small group must follow the Peddler's Road to reach it. Huge rats, trolls, an evil witch, and the Piper himself await, but there's no other way to get home.


I always enjoy reading books based on fairy tales and myths. I wonder what happens to the children of Hamelin once they disappear. The plot isn't overly dramatic, suspenseful, or adventurous, but it's entertaining and easy to follow. It's a solid story with engaging characters. Carter is the key character, and his crippled leg adds to the intrigue. Other people underestimate him, so his leg brace motivates him to be a hero. Lukas is 700 years old, but he's still a boy and rarely leaves the community of New Hamelin. He takes his role as Eldest Boy very seriously and is determined to protect Carter at all costs. Although New Hamelin is full of magic, the book is not overly magical, which is not a bad thing. There's something magical about Carter's character, but he has no idea about his power. Actually, he doesn't do anything amazing until the plot nears the climax. Overall, this book is a winner, and the sequel is called The Magician's Key.