From: Karen Vollmar <KVOLLMAR>
Date: Wed, 10 May 2006 10:31:45 -0500

As a commuter, I've been listening to a lot of fantasies on audio books.
 It makes the price of gasoline easier to swallow!

I must strongly agree with those who have recommended the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series (ditto for Bartimeaus, Artemis, and, CITY OF EMBER). What a wonderful way for teachers to reinforce lessons in mythology, and, since some of the references to the gods are not overt, it's fun to try to figure out which deity is introduced in the novels.

There are two fantasy series which I don't believe have been addressed, yet. The Land of Elyon (trilogy?) by Patrick Carman features a plucky, headstrong young heroine and is easy enough that I believe 4th graders could read it. Lots of action and character development make for a fast moving read (listen). It's also refreshing that the "wise elder" of the first book did not necessarily make the wisest decision.

The Edge Chronicles, by British author Paul Stewart, is very popular at my library. In BEYOND THE DEEPWOODS, the only title I'm acquainted with so far, the main character, Twig, encounters a variety of slimy, oozing, grotesque creatures when he strays off "the path." It seemed there must be a new creature on almost every page, and I soon tired of the
"encounter, danger, escape by the skin of his teeth" format. Way too many subplots weakened the main plot and character development. Twig was simply a reactionary character who did not appeal to me. However, I'm apparently the only "reader" who felt this way - reviews were good and boys, in particular, seem to love the books. Probably the gross-out factor! I will give the second installment a chance.

Two stand alone books have come to mind during this discussion. One of my favorites of the past year is the hilarious and very clever DIARY OF A FAIRY GODMOTHER by Esme Codell. Hunky Dory, much to the disapproval of her family, believes she is on the wrong career path and would prefer to become a F.G. (fairy godmother) instead of a witch. (Fairy godmothers are vapid under-achievers.) References to classic and contemporary fairy tales are seamlessly woven into the story. Characters are well developed - with names like Sinus Infection, how could they not be? Throughout the book I found myself in awe of Codell's ability to maintain the clever repartee. I think this would appeal to young readers, as well.

A long ago favorite, that I have not revisited, is a time travel book, JEREMY VISICK, by David Wiseman. Read over 20 years ago, it may not be as compelling as I remember, but I do think it would appeal to boys. It involves the main character traveling back in time to help a child miner during a cave-in in Wales. If I recall correctly, lots of action and good character development.

This discussion has changed a so-so fantasy reader into a "Yeah, I'll give it a try" reader!

Karen Vollmar Waukesha Public Library Any opinions expressed herein are my personal opinions and not necessarily those of Waukesha Public Library.
Received on Wed 10 May 2006 10:31:45 AM CDT