Hunt for the Lost (The Conjurers #2)

Gr 3-7--Anderson's "Conjurers" sequel opens with siblings Emma and Alex separated in the Conjurian, the magical city, and facing danger at every turn. They are reunited along with their ragtag team and their trusted Jimjarian, Pimawa. Pim, a rabbit-like being, and the other Jimjarians are devoted to magicians, and he guides Emma and Alex to his home to regroup. The two had been living with their Uncle Mordo following the disappearance and presumed death of their magical artifact--hunter parents. The kids fled to the magical world when Rag-o-Rocs, flying skeletal creatures, attacked them at the behest of the Shadow Conjurer. Putting their clues together, Emma and Alex realize that the Shadow Conjurer is after them in hopes of getting to the Eye of Dedi, an artifact their parents had found that separated the magical world from the mortal Flatworld. The Shadow Conjurer wants the Eye, the most powerful magical artifact, and will destroy anyone or anything to get it. This second book can be enjoyed alone, but would be better with the first work. Neither Emma nor Alex nor any supporting characters are physically described, though black-and-white illustrations suggest they are white. VERDICT With elements of John Stephens's The Emerald Atlas and Lemony Snicket's "Series of Unfortunate Events," this magical adventure series is an exciting addition to middle grade collections.--Sarah Voels, Cedar Rapids P.L., IA