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Synopsis
The New York Times best-selling writer Neil Gaiman weaves a mesmerizing tale of the dangers and possibilities of youth in THE BOOKS OF MAGIC, illustrated by the acclaimed artists John Bolton, Scott Hampton, Charles Vess, and Paul Johnson. "What are you proposing that we do?" "Enlighten the child. Show him what magic truly is, and what it was, and what it may become." "He has the potential to become the most powerful human adept of this age." "It is up to the four of us to ensure that he chooses his path correctly." Timothy Hunter is like any other 13-year-old boy, aimlessly filling his days with television and skateboarding. But Timothy Hunter is also unlike nearly everyone else on Earth, and he's about to learn the reason why. In a word -- magic. Tim doesn't believe in magic, of course, but it turns out that magic certainly believes in him -- at least enough that some of its practitioners are already actively planning his untimely death. Luckily for Tim, he also has allies in the supernatural realms. Four of the world's most accomplished and mysterious magicians have sworn to protect and enlighten the boy, and each of them has prepared a journey to demonstrate the hazards and rewards of the magical life. More important, they will also show him the price. This deluxe hardcover edition collects all four books of the original miniseries and includes an introduction by legendary fantasy and science fiction author Roger Zelazny as well as a special section featuring never-before-seen preliminary texts and sketches from the creators.
Is The Books of Magic appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
Young teen discovers he's destined to become a powerful magician and embarks on supernatural journeys with four mystical mentors. Contains fantasy violence and peril as enemies seek to kill him, plus dark magical themes appropriate for mature middle grade and teen readers.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include death and violence.
Who'll love this
Teens will love the magic-school-meets-urban-fantasy vibe as an ordinary kid discovers he has extraordinary magical potential and must decide his destiny.