William Alexander (18) (1976–)

Children's short middlegrade adventure/fantasy with goblins, 'dark' magic, and steampunk-like mechanical elements. [Maybe 4th-6th grades?] Part of a series, but with separate characters/stories (can definitely stand alone, so this is a potential contender for the Newbery).

I wasn't too impressed with Goblin Secrets (despite not-as-prestigious-as-you'd-think National Book Award status) but figured I'd give this one a chance--didn't actually get more than a few pages in, unfortunately, because I was so put off by the impracticality of the baker's Inspection/punishment--several days a year spent evaluating and punishing bakers just seemed ridiculous. However, this turns out to be an actual practice during the Middle Ages,persisting more as a form of public entertainment rather than a way of keeping bakers honest--especially if, as in the book, they know in advance when the Inspection is going to be. Anyway, in light of this information (thank you, Internet), I suppose I can give this a second chance.. stay tuned.

Ok, that said: over the course of a few hours I'd finished the book, and actually it was good. Lots of adventure, a few goblins/otherwordly creatures, very mild violence (if dunking people in water is considered violence). Battles were all fought with music/logic rather than swords and knives; there was zero swearing or adult situations. It was nicely paced (the book appears hefty enough for the age range but it never dragged), and the characters were interesting and likeable. I think there are other books out there more worthy of the Newbery this year, but I wouldn't mind too much if this one won.… (more)

children's fiction/middlegrade fantasy. Natl Book Award winner, but not that impressive (authors have to pay an application fee in order to qualify for the award). I was hoping for more, but wasn't particularly wowed. I also picked up The Peculiar by Stefan Bachmann which has received strong reviews from librarians and booksellers--also having to do with the fey, magic, and children who disappear--and so far I am liking that one a lot more.… (more)