Marina and the Kraken (Mythics #1) by Lauren Magaziner

What worked:

The swift-moving story makes this book a quick read. The basis of it is the five main characters called Mystics must find their familiars, animals they bond with to develop powers. An arrow appears on each girl’s hand that points in the direction where her mythie will be found. Marina’s arrow glows brightest so it’s decided to search for her familiar first. This first book in the series is all about finding Marina’s mythie although the author doesn’t make it smooth sailing, literally.

Many complications are added to the adventure to keep readers engaged and wondering what will happen next. The girls are given the mayor’s boat without any instructions about how to sail or where they’re going. Luckily, Marina has experience on the water so she becomes the leader of the group. The boat itself is in terrible condition so the girls must immediately come up with ideas about how to fill the many holes. Socks aren’t the best solution. Also, a mysterious boat is following them with the intention of stealing the girls’ mythies to harness the raw power.

Marina’s character suffers from anxiety with the potential to paralyze her. She’s nervous about the whole bonding ceremony and anticipating which animal might possibly become her familiar. She’s hit with additional worry from not being chosen by any creature, an unprecedented occurrence in Terrafamiliar’s history. She feels more apprehension when the other Mystics look to her for guidance. Her fears reach their peak as things literally and figuratively fall apart in the middle of the ocean. If she can’t over her anxiety, she’ll need to learn to persevere through it.

What didn’t work as well:

The plot moves quickly so character development is lacking and details in the conflict aren’t shared. The five main characters even say they aren’t given any information about what they’re supposed to do before heading out into the ocean. They’re told they’ll need to use their new mythies to solve brewing trouble in the world with no knowledge or clues about what that means.

The Final Verdict:

The main characters are ten years old and that seems to be the age of the target audience. The simple framework of the plot makes it entertaining and easy to follow, although more experienced readers will find it too simple. The overall story is cute and creative so I recommend you give it a shot. 

Wolfstongue by Sam Thompson

What worked:

A large part of the story deals with how people handle the expectations of others. Silas is bullied at school due to his difficulties speaking and he fulfills his role as a victim. He recognizes his speech problems and accepts the abuse he receives. The wolves in the story are slaves to the foxes even though they’re much larger and stronger. The foxes have given them names that enable the foxes to control the wolves. The characters must eventually remember who they really are.

The author effectively makes the foxes, especially Reynard, convincing antagonists. These animals are typically considered sneaky and cunning so the author’s description of these characters builds on those expectations. Early conversations with Silas make the foxes seem kind and sincere but they immediately reveal their true intentions. Reynard is the worst as he’s the leader of the foxes and a master at manipulating words. Silas’s trouble speaking makes it easy for Reynard to twist his words and control his thinking. All of the animals hate Reynard and there is some unrest within the fox community.

I enjoy the levity created by the banter between a tabby cat and a raven as it balances the seriousness of the plot. An ongoing exchange is how the cat’s going to eat the bird eventually so he won’t let anyone else hurt it. The tabby’s “attacks” always result in the bird flying away with laughing caws. The tabby is extremely arrogant and makes it sound like he’s doing everyone else a favor when he helps. However, he’s an invaluable ally and always bravely comes through when needed.

What didn’t work as well:

Silas is “a little surprised” by talking wolves and foxes so the transition to a fantasy realm is less “believable”, for lack of a better word. He readily accepts it since a talking fox is standing in front of him but it usually takes a little time for characters to adjust to these kinds of unusual experiences. The book skips this transition period and jumps right into the story.

The Final Verdict:

Always remember who you are. The relationship between the wolves and foxes is uncommon and the role of humans in character dynamics is creative. The message regarding human culture is a valuable lesson and I recommend you give this book a shot. 

The Amarisian Prophecies: The Reckoning by Zoe Nauman

What worked:

The evil Queen Sathariel controls Amaria with her dark magic but she’s worried the Yasha Prophecy will arise and end her reign. She decides to have all boys killed or imprisoned when they come of age to prevent the Chosen from appearing. This creates a captivating conflict for readers. They’ll follow the prophecy coming to pass despite the queen’s efforts but the author includes some uncertainties within the prophecy itself. The Chosen will have four defenders transported through the Thura Gate but the prophecy says one of them might be turned to the dark side, thus allowing Sathariel to remain in power. The queen’s demise isn’t explicitly foretold in the prophecy which leaves doubt as to exactly how the conflict will be resolved.

The four kids transported into this mystical world come from all walks of life so readers should be able to connect with at least one of them. Nadia’s parents suffer from substance abuse and she maintains a kind heart despite the dismal conditions in her London neighborhood. Afsana comes from a refugee camp on the Turkish border with Syria. Yibanathi has moved from Sydney, Australia, hoping to find a town more accepting of a rich black kid who likes to surf. Finally, Min-Ji is an obsessed gamer living in Seoul, South Korea, who suffers from anxiety attacks. All four of the kids have been treated differently by society and their experiences are necessary to bring change in Amaria.

The issue of religious tolerance is a major part of the plot. Sathariel’s arrival in Amaria alienates different factions in the realm and their concepts of a supreme being vary. As a result, the people/creatures have been isolated within their own regions and tensions rise when they interact. However, Nadia and her friends realize the groups’ beliefs are very similar but the names they use for their gods are the main difference. The kids must find a way to unite the vastly diverse sides if they have any chance of stopping Sathariel.

What didn’t work as well:

The book introduces many points of view early on which makes it more challenging to immediately connect with the characters. There are seven different setting changes in the first few chapters as the author introduces the Chosen, the four kids transported into the world to defend him, the antagonist, and the divine interpreters awaiting the arise of the Yasha Prophecy. The changes are clearly defined, which helps, and the events and settings become more focused once the characters come together.

The Final Verdict:

Faith is the true power. The adventure is entertaining although there are missed opportunities where the author might have added twists to create suspense. Stories with prophecies and inexperienced heroes are always engaging and I recommend you give this one a shot. 

Tales of a Seventh-Grade Lizard Boy by Jonathan Hill

What worked:

Being from a family of lizards brings a whole new perspective to being the new kid in school. Tommy must keep his identity as Booger Lizk’t secret in the human world but he hates wearing a mask all of the time. He just wants to be himself. Human food disgusts Tommy until he discovers kimchi and other Asian dishes. His mother and sister are adapting to the new human world more quickly but they don’t fully understand his troubles. An interesting twist is the lizards’ ability to transform their faces like chameleons and that power is creatively used to complicate the conflict.

Bullies and cultural differences are the main focus of the book. Tommy and his new friend Dung are harassed by bullies just for being new to the school. Dung’s unusual Vietnamese diet is a target of ridicule and Tommy’s lapse in judgment results in another student witnessing him eating his preferred food. The bullying is constant and cruel but the author adds a couple of unexpected variations to the situation. The story explores the confusion and anger felt by victims of bullying and the consequences when a bully becomes the target of taunts and teasing.

The story includes peripheral events that add context to intolerance for cultural differences and Tommy’s fear of being discovered. “Conqueror of Rept Isle” is a popular video game where players hunt and destroy reptilian characters. A hit television show is “Victory X” which depicts lizards invading the earth and impersonating humans. Bullies’ derisions and insults make reference to the game or show so they really hit home against Tommy. Then, a giant sinkhole appears in the town so citizens and the news let their imaginations explain this mystery. Tommy’s family comes from underground so any explanations have the potential to reveal the truth about their past. The story indirectly demonstrates the impact of media on society, especially with observers prone to prejudice and lacking independent thinking.

What didn’t work as well:

This graphic novel seems to have more text than others I’ve read recently but it still isn’t able to fully develop characters. Tommy experiences a wide range of emotions and the reasons are clearly communicated. Illustrations and limited words aren’t able to fully describe them though so the feelings are left at surface-level understanding. The book still presents a compelling story of cultural tolerance and learning to feel comfortable within your own skin.

The Final Verdict:

The graphic novel spins a creative tale of bullying as it takes a victim’s feelings in an unexpected direction. The amount of text makes the story better developed than many graphic novels and I recommend you give it a shot.

The Worst Villain Ever by Amy Bearce

What worked:

Young readers like the unusual and being contrary and this book flips social expectations upside down. Villain life can’t include any manners, compassion, or niceties and George’s own mother discourages these signs of weakness in him. Thank you’s, hugs, smiles, and laughs (unless they’re evil cackles) are taboo. The expectation of evilness at the school makes readers wonder who can be trusted. George meets a ghost (the name for kids trying to become accepted into the academy) named Sam and they seem to have some things in common. Is there some ulterior motive behind Sam’s willingness to secretly offer advice or his willingness to spend time with George? George is in extreme contrast with his brother Alex who was a diabolical star at the school and is becoming a well-known, ruthless villain since his graduation.

George’s internal conflict of wanting to be an excellent bad guy while actually having a kind heart is at the center of the whole story. Readers will wonder if his kindness will get him kicked out of school, or even worse, find him dumped into Roster C. Helping others and being nice is instinctive for George so he must consciously stop himself from helping others. That’s very hard to do. When he aids others, he tries to do it sneakily, like an evil thief would do, and hopes none of the instructors notice these kind gestures. George really wants to carry on the family tradition of villainy excellence but he doesn’t like to hurt other people and he likes cute animals. What’s a potential villain supposed to do?

The story includes inventions and gizmos that will interest lovers of science or technology. The possibility of magic is also introduced early in the book and Sam has displayed a talent in that area. It feels like this book could become a series so I’m wondering if magic might become more of a factor in future books. Readers might be surprised to learn villains don’t have superpowers and use electromagnetic capes to fly. Sam gives George a multipurpose tool set that helps him unlock doors and disable electric fences. An evil-looking black, full-length, trench coat keeps George cool and covers the flame-designed outfit he likes to wear.

What didn’t work as well:

This will be a strange thought, but the publisher’s synopsis reveals too much information. The mission to stop Captain Perfectus, and George’s brother offering help, occur two-thirds of the way into the book. Publishers usually give readers vague hints about the book so this blurb mutes the awaiting surprises. I keep waiting and waiting for the plot to get to Captain Perfectus only to discover it doesn’t happen until there’s only a third of the book left. The book is still very entertaining but the synopsis doesn’t leave much room for surprises.

The Final Verdict:

The essence of the story isn’t unique as George reluctantly strives to fulfill family expectations. It’s easy to root for nice guys so readers should make connections with his character. Overall, the events move fairly quickly and I recommend young readers give it a shot.

The Merchant's Curse (The Harwood Mysteries #4) by Antony Barone Kolenc

What worked:

Despite being the fourth book in the series, this book can be read on its own. Xan is adapting to life outside of Harwood Abbey and he questions if he made the correct decision. He has a crush on a co-worker and friend named Christine which complicates his transition. Xan’s older cousin Nigel has eyes for her too and appears to have plans to make her his wife. Christine has a kind heart and beautiful face but she’s complicated by vanity and ambition. Xan can’t compete with Nigel’s charm and position in society, so he’s unsure what to do about his feelings for Christine. He’s disturbed when she’s around Nigel but he knows she has a kind soul.

Religion and faith are major topics in the book. Xan leaves his religious studies at Harwood Abbey to work in the merchant business with his uncles. He strives for wisdom like Solomon in the bible and often recalls scripture when making decisions. He counsels with Father Philip for guidance and spiritual support and he often remembers his friend Lucy’s words as she studies to become a nun. Xan notes the problems created when characters display biblical sins such as vanity, coveting, and greed. He has much to learn about the value of the wisdom he cherishes as Father Philip points out the pursuit of wisdom comes with its own issues.

As the title indicates, this book contains a mystery and Xan has a talent for solving them. Xan’s uncle is cursed by a witch and the family is unable to find a cure. Even Father Philip’s blessings have no effect on nausea and weakness that’s slowly killing Xan’s uncle. This conflict forms the main focus of the story but Nigel may bring serious trouble to the family. He’s corresponding with one of the king’s sons who has eyes on taking the throne. The king and his followers may view this as treason so Nigel, his family, and friends may be in danger of imprisonment or hanging. Then, Xan notices two goons working for the Master in the area and knows they can’t be up to anything good. Why are they leaving his uncles’ business?

What didn’t work as well:

The climax pulls in characters from previous books so they seem like strangers jumping into the middle of the story, if readers haven’t read the earlier books, like me. Most of the plot is unaffected by events in earlier stories so readers can still enjoy this book. Reading the previous books will make it easier to understand these “new” characters but it shouldn’t detract from being entertained.

The Final Verdict:

The book has its moments of biblical reflection but it doesn’t feel like readers are being preached to. The witch’s curse creates a compelling conflict between good and evil with Xan having faith that God will triumph in the end. Overall, I enjoyed the story and recommend you give it a shot.

Tommy and the Order of Cosmic Champions by Anthony Gate and Anthony Rapino

What worked:

Tommy is absorbed in everything related to the Order of Cosmic Champions just as many young readers become obsessed with their different interests. He’s read all of the comics, collected the action figures, and watched all of the shows starring various superheroes and supervillains. Tommy is forced into the complications of growing up as his former best friend now says everything about the Order of Cosmic Champions is stupid. Young readers can identify with the tide of emotions coming from fickle friendships in the middle grades.

Tommy’s parents are having marriage problems and he’s stuck in the middle. The author describes Tommy’s thoughts and feelings as his father’s drinking and emotional indifference leave Tommy with unfilled needs. He mostly keeps his feelings bottled up as he craves attention from his parents. His problems are compounded by incessant bullying at his new middle school and he’s embarrassed to talk to anyone about it. His isolation and anger become unbearable and a contest to create a new comic character feels like Tommy’s only chance for salvation. Middle school is a time of major changes and he’s forced to endure the worst of it. Tommy must learn that he has an inner power strong enough to overcome the challenges in his life.

The author wields imaginative, descriptive language using all types of figurative language. Tommy deals with the stress of his growing anger, frustration, and loneliness through dreary dreams and the haunting voice in his mind of an Order of Cosmic Champions villain, Skullagar. The line between reality and imagination becomes blurry and Tommy begins to listen to the voices to cope with his crumbling life. The fury and humiliation of feeling like a victim build inside and Tommy doesn’t know how to handle it. The author allows readers to experience his increasing, destructive emotions and Tommy’s confusion with trying to find a way to let them out.

What didn’t work as well:

I know it’s intended but readers may be confused as to whether Tommy’s experiences are in his mind. Even Tommy wonders. The possibility of an interdimensional world is presented but no one else is able to see and hear what Tommy encounters. Events happening in another dimension would explain it. There are huge battles in the middle of the street with giant craters but bystanders only see Tommy fighting imaginary enemies. Did it actually happen if no one sees it?

The Final Verdict:

The author spins a sensitive tale of a young boy overwhelmed by the complexities of growing up. The adventure moves between reality and imagination (or another dimension) and Tommy finds unexpected help to realize his own emotional strength. I recommend you give this book a shot.