(3) 4-6 Shakespeare Mysteries series. Illustrated by Mark Edward Geyer. When the Shakespeare manuscripts from Secrets of Shakespeare's Grave are decried as fakes, it's up to Colophon and Julian to prove the documents' authenticity. The smart, intrepid--and lucky--duo embark on another search for clues, with Hicks creatively weaving new British historical figures/places into the engaging plot. Discovery of even greater family treasure leads to a tantalizing teaser for further mysteries to solve.

Reviewer: Cynthia K. Ritter

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Mark Edward Geyer. Moriarty (The Inquisitor's Apprentice) returns to his alternate early-twentieth-century New York, where magic and traditional Judaism are the major forces. In solving the murder of the Klezmer King, Sacha once again faces dark magic and must decide whether to defy his upbringing and use his own magical gifts. Occasional line drawings enhance the novel's evocation of setting, which is its greatest strength.

Reviewer: Shoshana Flax

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Mark Edward Geyer. The family publishing business is in trouble; to save it, Colophon and her cousin Julian need to find a mysterious ancient family treasure connected to playwright William Shakespeare. This book's entertaining adventure--full of happenstance--involves several historical and literary clues and sets up a larger, series-long mystery. Pen-and-ink illustrations provide a fitting ambiance for this enjoyable read.

Reviewer: Cynthia K. Ritter