Reviews

Gr 6-8 Five fantasy game players are whisked to a parallel world to do battle with an evil sorcerer. They carry talismans that embody the qualities that they wish to have but lack in their real lives. These fantasy transformations are too obvious because Carpenter tells readers too much about relationships. Even when he shows readers, he cannot resist commenting on the action or the thoughts, feelings, moods and motivations that drive his characters. For example: ``It was a moment of some drama and strangeness.'' Such a statement would be unnecessary if the writing conveyed those qualities. Perhaps the most annoying moment comes when the author interrupts the climax with expository material detailing how it came about, then resumes the final conflict. Even fantasy junkies will have difficulty wading through this literary morass. Holly Sanhuber, Muskego Public Library, Wis.

Unemployed or starting college, Paul and his friends are uncertain what life holds for them. Their weekly meetings to indulge in role-playing games are a peaceful escape, until one night they step through a mirror into another world and the game becomes real. In Xhandarre, each of the five possesses special powers that complement their earthly attributes. These are powers they need in their quest to free the land from the despotic sorcerer Avron Kromar. Water serpents, birdbats, human wolves and deep dungeons lie in wait for them, but so do Prince Jarmassad (the rightful heir to the throne) and his loyal wizard Meldorion. This pleasant fantasy-adventure is distinguished by its characterization: the friends remain fallible people who must conquer their own weaknesses as well as magical foes. (11up)