By: Brandon Mull
Visiting a new candy shop after the first day of school, Nate, Trevor, Summer, and Pigeon
get much more than expected. The shop owner, Mrs. White, begins to ask them to do tasks for her, and she rewards them with her special candy. This candy is not only incredibly delicious, it is magic! The four friends think this is wonderful until Mrs. White begins to ask them to break in to places and steal things. As they consider backing out, they find that magic candy is a lot more then they had imagined!
Mrs. Senechal says:
This was a great start to my summer reading! The story really drew me in, and, just like the main characters, I had trouble knowing who to trust. The author includes many twists and turns in the plot which kept me wanting to read. This is the first book in the series, so it will be fun to see what happens next. The author has also created an app and card game to go along with the series.
By: Brandon Mull
In Erdas, children have the rare chance to call a spirit animal when they turn 11. This spirit
animal will become their lifelong ally and companion. Suddenly, four children are able to call legendary spirit animals known as the Great Beasts. Two opposing forces want the children to join their side as they prepare for war and other uncertain threats.
Mrs. Senechal says:
I enjoyed this book! There are great descriptions of the wilderness, the animals, and their special relationships. The book is first in a series that I think will be exciting and suspenseful. Also, the book is not too long which makes it a fun read. And, if you like computer games, the book gives you a code so that you can play an online game related to the book and characters!
By: Brandon Mull
Jason is back home after his first experience in Lyrian. Life is not the same, and he can't stop wondering what is happening to Rachel and his many other friends there. Jason returns to the zoo hoping a portal will open and take him back - and it finally does! Once he arrives and eventually reconnects with Rachel, they begin to see the possibility of defeating Maldor will take more then they ever imagined. They find that there is a slim hope based on a complicated prophecy, but this requires Jason and Rachel to split up and face almost insurmountable odds to take down Maldor. These books complete the Beyonders series
Mrs. Senechal says:
I purposely waited until book #3 was available before I read book #2! I couldn't bear to be left in such suspense as I was after book #1! I was thrilled as the story continued through many other parts of Lyrian, and fascinating new characters were added. There were many surprises as characters showed their loyalty or betrayal. In my opinion, the world and characters created by Brandon Mull in this series could be used in many other books!
By: Brandon Mull
Kendra and Seth's parents are dropping them off at their grandparents' while they go on a cruise. Kendra and Seth are not excited especially when they arrive and their grandfather gives them stern rules to follow. It doesn't take long before the two children realize that their grandparents live on a secret preserve for magical creatures called Fablehaven. And, quickly, Seth's curiosity gets them in trouble. Suddenly, spending a few weeks with their grandparents is a wild adventure!
Mrs. Senechal says:
At first, this seemed like a typical fantasy, but I soon found myself not wanting to put this book down! The challenges and adventures that Kendra and Seth face are exciting! There are some scary moments in this book, and the evil magical creatures do everything they can to take over Fablehaven. However, I really enjoyed the author's descriptions and have already started book #2 in the series! Special thanks to Chance for suggesting this series.
