Having never heard of Magic and Mayhem by Marcus Sedgewick I saw it on the shelf of the library. I decided to read a few pages and it appeared to be a good start, so I took it home. The first thing I noticed was that the chapters were very different to all other books that I have read. Instead of just ‘Chapter 1’ it stated ‘Chapter 1’ followed by a fact about the family, which the book is based on, in a frame.
This book, which appears to be part of the Raven Mysteries series, is about the rich Otherhand family, who live in Otherhand Castle. Deciding to leave the inventor, Lord Otherhand alone, the rest of the family decide to go to the circus for an outing. Arriving early for the circus, Minty, who is the mum, decides to visit the fortune teller, which resulted in the fortune teller coming to their house. However, unexpectedly some evil plans are proposed, which only the bird of the family knows about. Not being able to speak English, the bird has a difficult job explaining to the family what is happening, but can he do it?
I really enjoyed this book due to its interesting and suspense–building plot. I am certain that I will enjoy the rest of the series due to the unexpected twists and the tension that is well built by the author.
I recommend this book to anyone above the age of eight as the plot is relatively easy to understand and I think the amazing predictions which the fortune teller does will amaze everyone above this age, including adults.
- Buy this book at the Guardian Bookshop
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