Magyk by Angie Sage

One of my goals for this year is to learn more about books for teens and tweens. In our library's remodeling late in 2008, the teen collection moved much closer to the reference desk, which has resulted in a great increase in readers' advisory for middle school students. While I have read and even reviewed some good books intended for teens, I still do not know enough. Needing more audiobooks anyway, I am trying to mix work and pleasure with listening to teen-oriented audiobooks.

Last week I listened to Magyk by Angie Sage, the first of the titles in the Septimus Heap series, books about wizards, princesses, evil bureaucrats, and magical beasts. That is almost all I want to say about the fast-moving story as there are many plot twists that should not be foreshadowed in reviews. I did look at some reviews after finishing the audiobook, trying unsuccessfully to learn the name of the magical world that Sage has created. Almost all of the reviewers gave plot secrets away. I am glad I listened with no preconceptions.

A reader of fantasy will, of course, find elements in the story that remind him or her of other series, especially Harry Potter, but I found enough new ideas to be entertained. Magyk is widely available in public libraries.

Sage, Angie. Magyk. Recorded Books, 2005. ISBN 1419338048