The Shadows

"This fantasy series is really one story divided into four pieces, written for hi-lo readers. It has an exciting element that will keep reluctant readers going. The numerous illustrations by Odessa Sawyer are magically intriguing. Soli and Lucy are best friends, but have a falling out. While in the Faerie woods, Soli wishes Lucy away, and she disappears. So ends the first book. Soli and Lucy discover that Soli is the daughter of the Queen, who is human, and the good Faierie King. These four stories will find a place in a middle or high school setting where very low level books are needed. There is excitement, adventure, magic, and a bit of romance. The series, written by Beth Bracken and Kay Fraser, is done well and will entertain those readers who might not otherwise be able to handle a lot of fantasy. Recommended."

"This is not a frightening book, just completely mesmerizing, and you find yourself seemingly hypnotized by the darkly realistic color illustrations filled with deep shadows underneath bright swipes of highlights. . . .This is a very unique book with haunting images and text. The text is short, and is entirely a setup for future books, but it creates such a strong sense of wonder simply spending time in the story is enough. The words feel very personal, as they should since we are in the minds of Soli and Lucy throughout the book as the chapters alternate in perspective. . . .readers will certainly want to read book three after this delightfully imaginative installment."