About the Author

Jane Johnson is the director of HarperCollins UK's fantasy and science fiction list and for many years was the publisher of J. R. R. Tolkien's work. While she has written adult novels as both Gabriel King and Jude Fischer, the Eidolon Chronicles is her first series for children. Ms. Johnson lives in London and Morocco. Visit Ms. Johnson at her website, www.janejohnson.eu.

Reviews

Gr 4-7-Ben Arnold, his father, and his older sister Ellie must bid farewell to their mother and baby sister, Alice, who are making their way back to Eidolon, the magical land described in The Secret Country (S & S, 2006). Saddened by their departure, Ben and his father are horrified to discover that Ellie has mistakenly crossed into Eidolon, too. The boy sets out to bring her back, only to learn that all manner of chaos has been let loose there. Ellie is captured by the evil Dodman, who threatens to torture the girl if her mother, Queen of Eidolon, does not submit to his will. Naturally, Ben must rescue his irritating sibling, and a host of magical folk-a centaur, a mermaid, dragons, and selkies, among others-join him in the battle against the malevolent creatures enlisted by the Dodman. A whimsical black-and-white drawing opens each chapter. While a continuing connection with the characters will enhance the experience for those who have read the earlier book, this sequel stands on its own.-Sharon Grover, Hedberg Public Library, Janesville, WI Copyright 2007 Reed Business Information.