Darwen
Arkwright is an eleven-year-old boy who is orphaned in modern-day England and
is sent to live with his aunt in Atlanta (perhaps the least-magical city I’ve ever
visited.). But he finds that the mirror in his closet is an entryway to a magical
land called Silbrica where dangerous creatures ride motorbikes and try to
capture children. Forces within Silbrica
are searching for something in our world, though, and only Darwen and his
friends can stop them.
I
first read this book when I was on the committee for a state-wide literature
award. The book can feel a little forced
at points, but by the end it had totally evolved into its own unique story and
I was cheering the characters. I also especially applaud the author’s handling
of Darwen’s parents and their participation in his current story. See, it’s because they… but I won’t tell you
that. You’ll have to read it for
yourself.
How to Commemorate
- Buy a mirror.
- Drink cold tea with a huge soggy teabag in it.
- Go to the mall and look for magical creatures.
Works
Cited
Darwen Arkwright and the
Peregrine Pact
by A.J. Hartley
