
Guardians of Ga'Hoole: The Journey
by Kathryn Lasky
In the second installment of the epic Guardians of Ga'Hoole series, Soren and his band of friends—Gylfie, Twilight, and Digger—embark on a perilous quest to find the legendary Great Ga'Hoole Tree. This mythical sanctuary is home to an order of noble owls who rise each night to perform heroic deeds. After escaping the clutches of the evil St. Aegolius Academy, the young owls seek the wisdom and strength of the Ga'Hoolian elders to help them fight the growing darkness in the owl world. Their journey is fraught with danger, testing their courage and the bonds of their newfound friendship.
Upon arriving at the Great Tree, Soren discovers that his journey is only beginning. He must undergo rigorous training to become a true guardian, learning the ancient ways of the owl world. This book is a perfect choice for children who love animal-led fantasies and epic quests. It is ideal for readers interested in mythology, heroism, and the classic battle between good and evil. Fans of Warriors or Wings of Fire will find themselves captivated by the rich world-building and high-stakes adventure found in Kathryn Lasky's beloved series.
Highlights:
- An epic journey to a mythical sanctuary filled with ancient wisdom.
- Strong themes of loyalty, bravery, and the importance of mentorship.
- A compelling cast of owl characters with unique personalities and skills.
- Perfect for fans of animal fantasy series and heroic mythology.

Halt's Peril
by John Flanagan
In the ninth installment of the legendary Ranger's Apprentice series, the stakes have never been higher. While pursuing a dangerous cult known as the Outsiders, the legendary Ranger Halt is struck by a poisoned assassin's arrow. Now, his former apprentice Will must step into the role of leader and protector. With his mentor's life hanging in the balance, Will embarks on a desperate race against time to find the only person capable of providing a cure: the mysterious sorcerer Malkallam.
This gripping tale is perfect for children who love epic fantasy and historical-style adventures. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in archery, survival skills, and the deep bond between a teacher and a student. Fans of J.R.R. Tolkien and Rick Riordan will find themselves right at home in John Flanagan's meticulously crafted world. Halt's Peril is a great choice for those who enjoy high-stakes quests where intelligence and skill are just as important as bravery.
Highlights:
- A powerful exploration of the emotional bond between Will and his mentor, Halt.
- A fast-paced, high-stakes race against time that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
- Richly detailed world-building focusing on Ranger skills, strategy, and woodcraft.
- An essential chapter in one of the most popular adventure series for young teens.

Monday with a Mad Genius
by Mary Pope Osborne
Join Jack and Annie on one of their most inspiring adventures yet in Monday with a Mad Genius. In this installment of the beloved Magic Tree House Merlin Mission series, the time-traveling siblings are sent back to the Italian Renaissance. Their mission is to find the secret of happiness to help save Merlin from his deep sorrows. To succeed, they must seek the guidance of the legendary Leonardo da Vinci. This book is perfect for children who love history mixed with a touch of magic and mystery.
As Jack and Annie spend a day with the "mad genius," they discover that even the greatest minds face frustrations and failures. Readers will be captivated by the descriptions of Leonardo's inventions, his famous paintings, and his boundless curiosity. This story is an ideal choice for readers interested in science, art, and historical figures. It encourages children to look at the world with wonder and to never give up on their dreams, making it a great addition to any young reader's library.
Highlights:
- Explores the life and mind of the famous Renaissance artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci.
- Combines fast-paced adventure with educational historical facts.
- Part of the more challenging Merlin Mission sub-series, perfect for advancing readers.
- Teaches valuable lessons about perseverance and the joy of discovery.
Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
by Rick Riordan
Step back in time with Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, a captivating journey through history written by the acclaimed Rick Riordan. This beautifully illustrated book follows Callimachus, the royal librarian of Alexandria, and his curious apprentice, Philip, as they embark on a grand Mediterranean voyage. Together, they explore the legendary sites that have fascinated humanity for millennia, from the Great Pyramid of Giza to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. This book is perfect for children who love history and are eager to learn about the architectural marvels of the past.
Ideal for readers interested in ancient civilizations, Riordan blends meticulous research with a narrative that brings these lost monuments to life. The detailed illustrations provide a vivid window into what these breathtaking structures may have looked like in their prime. It is a great choice for parents looking to introduce educational topics through an engaging story, making it a staple for any young explorer's bookshelf.
Highlights:
- Engaging narrative that makes ancient history accessible to young readers.
- Stunning architectural illustrations based on historical research.
- Features a journey across iconic locations like Olympia and Alexandria.
- Written by Rick Riordan, offering a unique look at his early historical work.

The Kings of Clonmel
by John Flanagan
In the eighth installment of the beloved Ranger's Apprentice series, The Kings of Clonmel takes readers on a high-stakes journey across the sea. When a mysterious cult known as the Outsiders begins promising protection to the people of Clonmel in exchange for gold, Halt knows something is wrong. Having dealt with this group in his past, Halt, along with his apprentice Will and the brave knight Horace, must travel to Hibernia to expose the cult's dangerous secrets and stop their influence from spreading.
This book is perfect for children who love medieval settings, tactical battles, and stories about deep-rooted loyalty. John Flanagan continues to masterfully blend action with character growth, making it ideal for readers interested in epic quests and the bond between mentors and students. Fans of the series will appreciate the deeper look into Halt's mysterious backstory, while new readers will be drawn in by the fast-paced plot and the clever strategies the Rangers use to outsmart their enemies.
Highlights:
- Thrilling medieval espionage and tactical combat.
- Deep exploration of Halt's secret past and family history.
- Strong themes of loyalty, friendship, and standing up against corruption.
- A great choice for fans of series like The Last Kingdom or Percy Jackson looking for a grounded fantasy world.

The Lost Stories
by John Flanagan
The Lost Stories is a must-read collection for fans of the Ranger's Apprentice series. In this eleventh installment, John Flanagan brings readers back to the kingdom of Araluen to answer the burning questions left behind by previous adventures. From the mysterious origins of Halt to the heartwarming wedding of Will and Alyss, these stories fill in the gaps of the epic saga, providing closure and new insights into the lives of the legendary Rangers.
This book is perfect for children who love high-stakes fantasy and tales of medieval heroism. Ideal for readers interested in master archery, stealthy scouts, and the deep bonds of mentorship, it serves as both a companion guide and a thrilling new entry in the series. Whether your child is a longtime fan or just finishing the main arc, this collection offers the same blend of humor, action, and heart that made the series a worldwide phenomenon. It is a great choice for young readers who enjoy immersive world-building and character-driven storytelling.
Highlights:
- Answers long-standing fan questions about character origins and fates.
- Features beloved characters like Will, Halt, Horace, and Alyss.
- Perfect for fans of Percy Jackson and Eragon.
- Includes a mix of action-packed missions and emotional character moments.

The Royal Ranger
by John Flanagan
The Royal Ranger marks a powerful and emotional return to the beloved world of John Flanagan’s Ranger's Apprentice series. After a devastating personal tragedy, the legendary Ranger Will Treaty has lost his way, consumed by a dark desire for revenge. To save him from himself, his mentor Halt suggests a mission he cannot refuse: taking on a new apprentice. However, this apprentice is unlike any before—a rebellious princess who needs discipline as much as Will needs a new purpose. This gripping tale is perfect for children who love epic fantasy, medieval settings, and stories of redemption.
Ideal for readers interested in archery, woodcraft, and high-stakes missions, this novel explores the heavy burden of duty and the power of mentorship. As Will and his new charge investigate a web of crime, they must navigate dangerous territory where the line between justice and vengeance blurs. It is a great choice for fans of the Brotherband Chronicles or anyone seeking a story with deep emotional resonance and thrilling action. Parents will appreciate the themes of resilience and moral integrity that define the Ranger Corps.
Highlights:
- A high-stakes conclusion to the original Ranger's Apprentice arc.
- Explores complex themes of grief, healing, and the bond between mentor and student.
- Features a strong, rebellious female protagonist entering the male-dominated Ranger Corps.
- Packed with the tactical action and survival skills fans of John Flanagan adore.

The Spook's Battle
by Joseph Delaney
The Spook's Battle is the fourth gripping installment in Joseph Delaney's world-renowned Wardstone Chronicles. In this dark and atmospheric tale, Tom Ward, the Spook’s apprentice, faces his most harrowing challenge yet. As the powerful witch clans of Pendle unite to summon an unimaginable evil, Tom and his master must venture into the heart of enemy territory. This book is a perfect choice for children who love high-stakes fantasy and aren't afraid of a few chills along the way.
Ideal for readers interested in supernatural lore, ancient magic, and the classic struggle between light and dark, Delaney crafts a world that is as dangerous as it is immersive. Parents looking for a series that encourages bravery and moral growth will find Tom's journey particularly compelling. It is a great choice for fans of dark folklore and those who enjoy a story that keeps them on the edge of their seat until the very last page.
Highlights:
- A terrifying expansion of the Wardstone Chronicles lore featuring powerful witch clans.
- Explores deep themes of courage, sacrifice, and the weight of responsibility.
- Perfect for fans of Percy Jackson looking for something darker and more atmospheric.
- Features a relatable protagonist growing into his role as a protector against the dark.

The Spook's Curse
by Joseph Delaney
The Spook's Curse is the spine-chilling second installment in Joseph Delaney's acclaimed Wardstone Chronicles. This dark fantasy adventure follows Thomas Ward, a young apprentice to the local Spook, as he travels to the city of Priestown. Deep within the catacombs of the cathedral lurks a terrifying entity known as the Bane, a creature of pure malice that even Tom's master has failed to defeat in the past. As the duo prepares for a life-or-death confrontation, they must also navigate the dangers of the Quisitor, a man who hunts those who deal with the supernatural.
Perfect for children who love dark fantasy and ghost stories, this book offers a masterclass in atmospheric tension and world-building. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in folklore, monsters, and the classic struggle between light and shadow. Fans of series who are looking for something significantly darker and more suspenseful will find themselves gripped by Tom's journey. With its high stakes and eerie encounters, it is a great choice for brave young readers who enjoy a genuine scare.
Highlights:
- A terrifying and atmospheric sequel that expands the lore of the County.
- Explores complex themes of duty, fear, and the weight of responsibility.
- Features a memorable and truly menacing villain in the form of the Bane.
- Perfect for fans of supernatural suspense and dark folklore.

The Spook's Mistake
by Joseph Delaney
The Spook's Mistake is a chilling and atmospheric addition to Joseph Delaney's acclaimed series, perfect for children who love dark fantasy and spine-tingling suspense. In this installment, apprentice Tom Ward is sent far from home to the bleak, northern marshes to train with Bill Arkwright, a battle-hardened Spook with a harsh and unforgiving teaching style. As Tom faces terrifying water witches and ancient blood-thirsty creatures, he must also survive the brutal methods of his new master.
This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in folklore, supernatural creatures, and high-stakes adventure. Delaney masterfully builds a world where danger lurks in every shadow, making it a great choice for fans of gothic horror and epic quests. The story explores deep themes of resilience and the moral complexities of fighting darkness, ensuring that readers remain gripped from the first page to the last.
Highlights:
- Intense and atmospheric world-building set in haunted marshes and mills.
- A darker, more challenging chapter in Tom Ward's journey as an apprentice.
- Fascinating new creatures and lore based on traditional folk horror.
- Explores the difficult and complex relationship between a mentor and a student.

The Spook's Nightmare
by Joseph Delaney
The Spook's Nightmare is the gripping seventh installment in Joseph Delaney's world-renowned Wardstone Chronicles. In this dark and atmospheric tale, the County is under threat like never before. The Spook’s legendary library has been reduced to ashes, and his old nemesis, Bony Lizzie, has escaped her confinement. Most troubling of all, the Spook himself is plagued by terrifying visions and waning strength, leaving his young apprentice, Tom Ward, to step into the light and face the encroaching shadows alone.
This book is perfect for children who love dark fantasy and are looking for a story that isn't afraid to be truly spooky. Ideal for readers interested in folklore, monster-hunting, and the classic struggle between good and evil, it offers a high-stakes adventure that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. It is a great choice for fans of series like Percy Jackson or Ranger's Apprentice who are ready for a slightly darker, more gothic tone.
Highlights:
- A chilling atmosphere perfect for fans of supernatural horror and suspense.
- Deepens the bond between master and apprentice as Tom faces his greatest challenge.
- Features iconic villains and rich folklore-inspired world-building.
- A fast-paced plot that explores themes of courage and overcoming fear.

The Spook's Revenge
by Joseph Delaney
The Spook's Revenge is the heart-pounding conclusion to Joseph Delaney's acclaimed series. Thomas J. Ward, the seventh son of a seventh son, has spent years training as the Spook's apprentice, learning to protect the County from ghosts, ghasts, and witches. Now, the stakes have never been higher as Tom and his allies prepare for a final, world-altering confrontation with the Fiend. This dark fantasy epic is perfect for children who love high-stakes battles, supernatural mysteries, and stories where the line between light and dark is constantly blurred.
Ideal for readers interested in folklore and grim adventures, this book delivers a satisfying and intense resolution to Tom's journey. Parents looking for a series that grows with their child will find this an excellent choice for teens who enjoy atmospheric writing and complex character development. It is a great choice for fans of series like Percy Jackson but with a much darker, more gothic twist that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
Highlights:
- The epic finale to the long-running Wardstone Chronicles series.
- A dark and atmospheric world filled with unique folklore and terrifying creatures.
- Deep exploration of destiny, sacrifice, and the burden of being a hero.
- Perfect for fans of dark fantasy and supernatural horror.

The Spook's Secret
by Joseph Delaney
In The Spook's Secret, the third chilling installment of the Wardstone Chronicles, young apprentice Tom Ward faces his most atmospheric challenge yet. As winter approaches, Tom and his master, the Spook, retreat to the desolate winter house in Anglezarke. This is no ordinary home; it is a place of shadows and buried memories. Tom soon discovers that the moor is teeming with secrets from the Spook's mysterious past—secrets that threaten to unleash chaos across the entire County. This dark fantasy adventure is perfect for children who love eerie atmospheres, supernatural creatures, and high-stakes storytelling.
Ideal for readers interested in folklore and the battle between light and dark, Joseph Delaney crafts a world where danger lurks in every corner. Parents looking for a gripping series that encourages bravery and critical thinking will find this a great choice for their middle-grade readers. It is a masterclass in building suspense, making it a must-read for fans of gothic fiction and legendary monsters.
Highlights:
- A haunting and atmospheric setting that brings the winter moors to life.
- Deepens the lore of the Spook's past and the history of the County.
- Features terrifying encounters with boggarts, witches, and ancient entities.
- Explores themes of loyalty, the weight of secrets, and the growth of a young hero.

The Spooks Apprentice
by Joseph Delaney
The Spook's Apprentice is a gripping and atmospheric dark fantasy that introduces readers to Thomas Ward, the seventh son of a seventh son. Apprenticed to the local Spook, Tom must learn the dangerous trade of protecting the County from ghosts, boggarts, and malevolent witches. This chilling tale is perfect for children who love eerie mysteries and are ready for a story that isn't afraid to be truly frightening. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in folklore, supernatural creatures, and the classic struggle between light and dark.
As Tom faces his first real test against the terrifying Mother Malkin, he discovers that being a Spook's apprentice requires more than just physical strength—it demands immense courage and a sharp mind. Joseph Delaney crafts a world that feels both historical and magical, making it a great choice for fans of high-stakes adventure. Parents looking for a series that will keep their teens hooked will find this first installment of The Wardstone Chronicles to be a compelling entry point into a vast and immersive world.
Highlights:
- A masterfully built world filled with unique folklore and terrifying creatures.
- A relatable protagonist who must overcome his fears to protect others.
- The perfect blend of suspense, horror, and coming-of-age adventure.
- Ideal for fans of dark fantasy series like Ranger's Apprentice or Percy Jackson.
