February 1, 2009
Gr 5-8-Charlie Bone is once again pitted against Count Harken, aka The Shadow, in Jenny Nimmo's seventh book (Orchard Books, 2008) in the Children of the Red King series. Very little background information is provided, so listeners must be familiar with the previous titles in order to follow the extended cast of characters and their endowments (magical talents). Charlie has the ability to travel into portraits, which sparks a feud when his best friend's dog is captured by a painting that also holds one of Charlie's ancestors. A blue feathered boa constrictor, a stone troll, a giant, and a blacksmith all play their parts in Charlie's attempt to rescue those trapped in the painting. Charlie's nefarious Grandma Bone is becoming more dangerous and Dagbert the Drowner tragically strikes again. All ends with an enormous cliffhanger which will have listeners clamoring for the next installment in the series. Simon Jones reads with subtle humor and a wide variety of distinct voices for the characters, both human and animal. A fine purchase for both school and public libraries where the series is popular.Charli Osborne, Oxford Public Library, MI
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