"Book Two of the Septimus Heap series"

Book Two of the Septimus Heap series lives up to all of my expectations. As I predicted with Book One, I believe this series has the ability to be as popular as the Harry Potter series.

In this story Septimus is the apprentice to the Extraordinary Wizard Marcia Overstrand. Jenna, the Princess is one of his best friends. Marcia is having problems with a Darke Shadow that follows her around everywhere. She has to build a special cabinet in order to capture the shadow so she can be rid of it. She recruits the help of Professor Van Klampff but he can only build a piece at a time very slowly. Marcia is very frustrated by this but what can she do.

Then Jenna is kidnapped by none other than Septimus' older brother Simon. Jenna can't believe that Simon kidnapped her and all because of jealousy because he felt he should be the apprentice. How can Septimus get Jenna back and how can Jenna get away from Simon? The problem is nobody believes that Simon has kidnapped Jenna so Septimus feels he has to go after her himself.

I was very grumpy while reading this book because every time I was interrupted it was generally during a part that was gripping and I didn't want to stop reading. I carried this book with me everywhere and read a bit every chance I got until I finally turned the last page with the thought "What a great book!" I highly recommend this excellent story! This is not just a story for young people. I believe that this story is ageless and everyone who enjoys books about magic and magical beings will enjoy these books.

Reviewed by Kathy Boswell
Posted February 28, 2006

Summary

Publisher: HarperChildren's / Imprint - Katherine Tegen Books