The Alchemyst by Michael Scott

What caught my eye on this book was the sub-title: The Secrets of The Immortal Nicholas Flamel. As a fan of the Harry Potter books by JK Rawlings, I was curious. Nicholas Flamel is a character in The Sorcerer’s Stone. I found out the he is actually more then that but is a historical figure that lived in Paris (c. 1330-1414 AD). He has also appeared in more books including The Da Vinci Code.

After having my interest peaked by the sub-title, I set down to read the book. I was totally caught up by the wonderfully crafted tale of two teenagers who where living in Southern California. They are twin brother and sister who have befriended Nicholas Flamel and his wife, Perenelle. The Flamel’s are who get Sophie and Josh Newman involved in the age-old battle between the forces of good and evil.

This book is extremely enjoyable to read and full of twists and turns that keep you turning the pages. What I enjoyed more is the author’s use of historical and mythological characters to populate the novel. I found myself spending some time re-familiarizing myself with old friends from my studies in college. Even though I have a base knowledge of the characters, people with out that knowledge will find this book enjoyable.

The story starts with Sophie and Josh witnessing Nicholas and Perenelle using magic to fight off their enemy Dr. John Dee. Everything that the teenagers think they know about the world is challenged from there. Perenelle is captured and Nicholas and the twins go on a magical trip through California and the world trying to rescue her and safe the world from destruction by the Dark Forces. Okay, the plot line seems hokey but I ensure you that it is not. I finished the book in a day and went out at bought the second in the series. I loaned my copy of The Alchemyst to a friend, how is enjoying it. I am waiting for the release of the third book in paper book but may head for the library to check a copy out.
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Posted by Helen in Book Reviews on June 10th, 2009 |