Paladin Prophecy

The Paladin Prophecy by Mark Frost

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Will West has spent his entire life up to fifteen years trying to follow a set of rules outlined by his dad.  One of those rules is “Don’t draw attention to yourself.” So, although he knew he was a fast runner, and exceptionally smart, he tried to “fly under the radar,” and not let anyone know about his abilities.  Then on a fluke, he does exceptionally well on a national test without really trying that hard, and as a result he is offered complete tuition to an exclusive school back east.  This happens just in time, because he soon finds out his parents have been kidnapped, and some men in black sedans are after him.  His only place to escape to is the exclusive school.  Just like in all of the super hero novels, Will is roommates and friends with others with special abilities, abilities that really come into play as they have to confront monsters from the “never-was” and human “monsters” from the school.  Of course, they are all part of an ancient prophecy in which Will is instrumental in “saving the world.”  There is strong action and lots of often over the top fantasy, but it should appeal to middle readers of this genre.  And you know there will be a sequel.



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Jackaby

Jackaby by William   Ritter

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Jackaby, by William Ritter, was one of those books that somewhat seamlessly blend fantasy with reality; so many do not.  I think that is what gave this book the edge over other current titles.  Jackaby, an eccentric paranormal detective, is able to solve mysteries that regular detectives cannot because he is able to see into the paranormal world.  Abigail Rook becomes his assistant when she finds herself without money and few skills in New Fiddleham and answers his ad for employment.  Being an assistant to Jackaby, a witty colorful character with an ugly hat, is not without risk.  In fact, a former assistant is now a duck, but Abigail loves adventure and soon finds herself in the middle of a serial murder case. Jackaby is convinced the murderer is a paranormal.   It is easy to love the witty Jackaby.  I truly expect a sequel.  For read alikes, read The Screaming Staircase by Jonathan Stroud, a similar story line.



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