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Summary: Conn is a thief who picks pockets and locks. The day he decides to pick Nevery's pocket, his life changes forever. Nevery is a wizard and Conn has lifted a magic stone. The stone should have killed him, but it doesn't. Nevery decides to bring Conn home, making him a servant. Conn is now saved from a life on the street ... but how safe is the city? This is book 1 of a trilogy for Tweens.
Type of Reading: family reading, anytime reading, read aloud book, advanced reader
Recommended Age: read together: 8 to 12; read yourself: 10 and up
Interest Level: 9 and up
Reading Level: 4.9
Age of Child: Read by student at Woodside Magnet High School for Arts and Communication (Newport News, VA0
Little Kid Reaction: I was drawn to this book when I saw the word "magic" in the title. I thought it was going to be a good book after the first page, and I was right. It was a really fun book to read. It reminded me of Harry Potter.
Big Kid Reaction: The author has crafted an exceptional story. She draws you in immediately, and you can relate to both Conn and Nevery (and also be mad at them, too)! It's nice to read a series book that you can enjoy on its own merits and not feel like there are details being held back for the next one.
Pros: Teens and adults will love this book because the scenes are exciting and "the book doesn't stop."
Cons: I just wanted it to be longer!
Borrow or Buy: Buy! I really liked reading this book. It was fun and very interesting.
Educational Themes: This is a book for recreational reading. There are some very interesting character dynamics and moral dilemmas that offer opportunities for dinner-table or classroom discussion. It might also be fun to stop with each chapter and answer the "what do you think happens next" question.
Notes: The Reading Tub, Inc. received an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Literary Categories: Fiction - fantasy, adventure, series book
Date(s) Reviewed: June 2008
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