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337 pp.
| Scholastic
| October, 2013
|
TradeISBN 978-0-545-25185-3$16.99
(4)
4-6
Chronicles of the Red King series.
Charlie Bone's ancestor Timoken the Red King now lives in an enchanted castle with his many children, but his wicked son Borlath and rival Osbern conspire to take over the castle. Ten-year-old Petrello plays an important role in saving his father. Too many characters and a muddy narrative style may confuse readers, but the magical fantasy elements will appeal to fans.
259 pp.
| Scholastic
| June, 2012
|
TradeISBN 978-0-439-84674-5$16.99
(4)
4-6
Chronicles of the Red King series.
Timoken the Red King builds his castle from stones stolen from "the conquerors" and makes a home for his old friends and orphans he newly befriends. The story is told in poetic language, but the dreamlike episodes lack tension, as most problems are resolved using Timoken's unbounded magical powers. Nevertheless, fans will enjoy the pleasant, if flat, narrative arc.
209 pp.
| Scholastic
| June, 2011
|
TradeISBN 978-0-439-84673-8$16.99
(4)
4-6
Chronicles of the Red King series.
This prequel series to the Charlie Bone books begins with Charlie's ancestor Timoken (the future Red King) protecting a jinni's magical gifts from the viridees after his parents are murdered. The tale's succeeding episodes don't build tension, relying on deus ex machina storytelling, but the fanciful events still pass agreeably. Other series entries are likely to follow.