Monday, March 4, 2013

The Alchemyst, by Michael Scott

In the novel, The Alchemyst, by Michael Scott, two twins, Sophie and Josh Newman, work next door to each other in two shops. The owners of the two shops, Perry and Nicholas Fleming, seem like ordinary people until one day a short man walks into the Nicholas' shop. He walked up to Nicholas and demanded for a book, but he refused. The little man, obviously enraged, summoned a strange green mist into the store. Nicholas handed Josh a book and told him to run away from the store, but was stopped by the little man, who revealed himself as Dr. John Dee. Although he snatched the book, Josh managed to steal the last two pages and flee. He met with Nicholas outside the shop to see his wife's shop destroyed with Sophie standing alone. Nicholas explained to the twins that he and his wife are ancient guardians of the book Dee snatched and he plotted to use it to summon the evil Dark Elders with its power. From there on they set out on a quest to retrieve the book, find Nicholas' wife, and learn some magic along the way.

This book was very action packed and suspenseful. As a history enthusiast, I found much joy in seeing the author's point of view of the historic characters. I found this book in the local bookstore, I looked at the cover and I concluded it must be a great book. Although one should never judge a book by the cover, this book really stood out. I am glad I read this book and I recommend this novel to any that enjoy magic and monsters, enjoy history (like myself), or are just looking for a good series to get into. It is amazing and I cannot wait to read the second book.

Reviewed by David, grade 9.
Central Library

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Nicholas Flamel was born in Paris in 1330. Even 700 years later, he is acknowledged as one of the greatest Alchemyst of his time. The myth is that he discovered the mystery behind eternal life and shared it with his beloved wife, Perenelle.
Flamel and his wife have hid the secret in the Book of Abraham and many people have tried to steal that book so they can have the secret of immortal life. It is the most powerful book that has ever existed and if it gets into the wrong hands, it will very easily destroy the world and that is what Dr. John Dee has in mind.
Flamel’s next task is to protect the twins that are the only chance of saving the world, Sophie and Josh Newman. He must teach the twins how to use their new found powers wisely before Dee can have a chance to cause mass destruction. Will Flamel be able to train the twins in time or will the world crumble at the hands of Dr. John Dee.

The Alchemyst, by Michael Scott, is an excellent story filled with adventure and and nail-biting suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat for the entire book. I was constantly kept guessing until the end of the book and I couldn't wait to read to read the next book. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes science fiction, mystery, action and adventure.

Reviewed by Elise B., grade 9
Montrose Crescenta Branch