(3) 4-6 Legendtopia series. In Urth, at hokey fantasy-themed restaurant Legendtopia, Kara Estrada accidentally stumbles into the world of Heldstone and unleashes a wicked sorceress on "Urth," whom she must defeat alongside Heldstone's clueless Prince Fred. In Queen, Kara and Fred search for Kara's lost father back in Heldstone. Silliness abounds during the fantastical quests, but there are heartfelt moments within the humor. Review covers these Legendtopia titles: The Battle for Urth and The Shadow Queen.

Reviewer: Siena Leslie

(3) 4-6 Legendtopia series. In Urth, at hokey fantasy-themed restaurant Legendtopia, Kara Estrada accidentally stumbles into the world of Heldstone and unleashes a wicked sorceress on "Urth," whom she must defeat alongside Heldstone's clueless Prince Fred. In Queen, Kara and Fred search for Kara's lost father back in Heldstone. Silliness abounds during the fantastical quests, but there are heartfelt moments within the humor. Review covers these Legendtopia titles: The Battle for Urth and The Shadow Queen.

Reviewer: Siena Leslie

(3) 4-6 Joshua Dread series. After they're attacked by Phineas Vex's minions, Joshua Dread and friends are sent to a school for kids with superpowers. There, they learn that Vex is seeking the Dominion Key, which will give him world domination; they have to find it before he does. Nonstop action and creative, humorous details (like a giant robotic duck) buoy this third series entry.

Reviewer: Rachel L. Smith

(3) 4-6 Joshua Dread series. After vanquishing the evil Phineas Vex (or did he?) in his eponymous first book, Joshua Dread is looking forward to a relaxing summer. His hopes are dashed, however, when he and his friends are recruited to become a super-famous superhero team. The climax merely sets up a sequel, but this book retains the wit and creativity of its predecessor.

Reviewer: Rachel L. Smith

(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Brandon Dorman. Unbeknownst to anyone else, Joshua's parents are two of the world's most dastardly supervillains. To Joshua, however, they're Mom and Dad. When they're kidnapped, along with a host of other villains, by mysterious "smoke creatures," it's up to Joshua to save the day. Joshua's understated, deadpan narration is quite funny; imaginative details add fun. Occasional black-and-white caricatures enhance the comic-book vibe.

Reviewer: Rachel L. Smith | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2012