Catching Up

I've been clearing off my nightstand and have done a ton of reading lately. Just one of the books I read is Steel Trapp: The Challenge by Ridley Pearson. A fast paced book about a boy on his way to the National Science Challenge who gets caught up in the handoff of a briefcase to a member of a terrorist gang. The suspense is nonstop but never overly scary. In the end, everything is resolved and Steel (Steven), his family, and his new friend, Kaileigh, are all fine and the terrorist plot is stopped. Great for 10 and up. Available March 25.

Sebastian Darke Prince of Fools by Philip Caveney reminded me of Lloyd Alexander. The main character gets in over his head through the best of intentions, meets a stalwart companion and a beautiful girl, and grows in self awareness and self confidence. Sebastian is off to the country of Keladon to apply for the position of court jester. Along the way he and his talkative beast of burden, Max, meet Captain Cornelius Drummel, a small but fiercesome soldier, who is also on his way to Keladon. The three of them save the life of Princess Kerin of Keladon and are then ensnared in court politics when they get to Keladon. For 12 and up. Available April 8.