Bibliographical information:

Scott, Michael. The Alchemyst: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel. New York: Delacorte, 2007.

Libby Gruner's review at theedgeoftheforest.com

Brief summary:

Sophie and Josh Newman's adventure begins when Sophie notices strange-looking men entering the bookstore where her twin brother Josh works. Havoc ensues in the bookstore, and when Sophie follows Perry Fleming, wife of bookstore-owner Nick, across the street, Perry is kidnapped by John Dee. Sophie and Josh discover that Nick and Perry are actually Nicholas and Perenelle Flamel, alchemists who have been guarding the Book of Abraham the Mage for centuries. Flamel believes that an ancient prophecy describes Sophie and Josh, and sets out to awaken their powers, train them, and rescue Perry.

Comments:

The story is engaging, and Harry Potter fans will enjoy learning more about Nicholas Flamel. Scott incorporates historical figures as well as a variety of religions, legends, and myths. Figures like Flamel and Dee cross paths with Greek, Celtic, and Norse deities and with golems and other magical creatures.

Grade/Age level:

Ages 10 and up

Cautions:

Parts of the book are a bit scary.

If you like this book, you might also like . . .

The Harry Potter books, Un Lun Dun, The Wee Free Men.

--Lisa Gordis

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