May 1, 2023
Eleven-year-old twins Merlynda and Percy are descendants of the wizard Merlyn, who prophesied that a member of their generation would be destined for greatness. Merlynda's often explosive magical mishaps are legendary, so everyone assumes the Septimum Genus--the most powerful magician in their generation, the seventh since Merlyn--will be gifted Percy. But Merlynda receives her familiar first, and he says that she is the Septimum Genus. In another shocking twist, Percy suddenly disappears into a portal, but not before passing his sister a parchment bearing the name the Hollower. Merlynda and Iggy, her wormlike wyvern familiar, set out to save Percy, accompanied by Neci, the twins' friend, a girl who desperately wants to be a knight. The rescue is their main focus, but as with any good legend, they tackle side quests and gain companions, including Batu, a boy minstrel with noteworthy fighting skills. It's all very colorful, amusing, and action-packed and complemented by atmospheric spot art. Occasional notes from the narrator are interspersed when background information is needed. As they travel, the questers gain allies and enemies who fiercely clash when they finally confront another towering figure from Arthurian lore and attempt to secure Percy's freedom. The youngsters' adventures change them; they, Percy especially, must confront truths about themselves, even when that is uncomfortable, and develop strength of character. The twins read White; Neci is cued Black, and Batu has black hair and tawny skin. A rousing romp with deep themes. (Adventure. 8-12)
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June 1, 2023
Grades 4-7 Merlynda has lived her 11 years in the shadow of her extraordinarily talented brother, Percy. Though the twins are direct descendants of the great wizard Merlyn, Merlynda can't wield her powers without wreaking havoc, and Percy is used to cleaning up her magical messes with a grin. When the pair attempts to increase Merlynda's power, it goes disastrously awry, and Percy is sucked through a portal and into the clutches of the Hollower, a legendary figure known to strip wizards of their magic and life force. A terrified but determined Merlynda sets out with her gutsy best friend (an aspiring knight) and a recently acquired familiar to save her beloved brother--and just maybe the entire world. The enthralling story is as heartening as it is thrilling, and it's a joy to watch Merlynda grow in confidence to match her already enormously kind heart. The funny, fantastical land is packed with marvelous descriptions of magical settings and mythical creatures, and occasional medieval page illuminations add to the enchanted air in this alluring Arthurian adventure.
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