Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Book Review & Giveaway- The Magnificent 12 The Call

By Michael Grant
Published By Harper Collins Children
Released on August 24th, 2010
Ages 9-12
Source- The Publisher
4.5 Stars- A Wonderful New Read

Twelve-year-old Mack MacAvoy suffers from a serious case of mediumness. Medium looks. Medium grades. Medium parents who barely notice him. With a list of phobias that could make anyone crazy, Mack never would have guessed that he is destined for a more-than-medium life.

And then, one day, something incredibly strange happens to Mack. A three-thousand-year-old man named Grimluk appears in the boys’ bathroom to deliver some startling news: Mack is one of the Magnificent Twelve, called the Magnifica in ancient times, whatever that means. An evil force is on its way, and it’s up to Mack to track down eleven other twelve-year-olds in order to stop it. He must travel across the world to battle the wicked Pale Queen’s dangerous daughter, Ereskigal—also known as Risky. But Risky sounds a little scary, and Mack doesn’t want to be a hero. Will he answer the call? (quoted from the book's jacket).

This is a brilliantly written, laugh out, adventure that is sure to be a must have for many middle school age readers. Mack's voice is one of wit, and laugh out loud sarcasm, as he comes to terms with being a leader of the Magnificent 12. The only problem is, he's got to find the other 11. If that wasn't bad enough, this true to life character knows how to work his away around the bullies who target him at school, but if he thought his life was weird, it's not until he saves the life of Stefan, does this "captain" of all bullies now become an allie on his quest to stop the unimaginable and save the world. The unthinkable happens more than once to Mack.

Mack is so funny, that I laughed out loud more than once. How can he not be. He's picked on at school and has parents who barely even know he's there, which was heartbreaking, but Mack's wit made him a strong character, who isn't someone who lets others push him around. I adored him! While I was reading this, I kept thinking that this is one book I can't wait for my son to be old enough to read. Have I mentioned has he more phobias than I realized existed!?!? Which makes for some humorous moments between him and Stefan as they set off for an unforgettable adventure to Australia.

Michael Grant does a wonderful job with the two different narrations, as the story alternates between Mack, set in modern day and Grimluk, who is from the past and sets up the history of the evil forces Mack must face. With mythical creatures, laugh out loud moments and adventure, The Magnificent 12 The Call is a book I highly recommend. This engaging read is one both book lovers and reluctant readers will enjoy. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of this series.

Be sure to visit The Magnificent 12's site to read about the series, play games, build your own avatar, and join the community http://www.themag12.com/

Thank you to Harper Collins, we have an official SIGNED hardcover of the book to GIVEAWAY!!!
1 winner will receive a SIGNED The Magnificent 12, The Call from Harper Collins Childrens Books.


Be sure to visit Harper Collins here
I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves. ~ Anna Quindlen

Good children's literature appeals not only to
the child in the adult, but to the adult in the child.
~ Anonymous ~