SandRider (TodHunter Moon #2)

Gr 4-6--In this second series installment, Kaznim, a child of the singing sands, just wants her tortoise back. She knows that awful Egg Boy, who is watching the Orm egg for dastardly Oraton-Marr, has something to do with Ptolemy's disappearance. When she finally finds Ptolemy in the pit, she knows it is dangerous, but can't help herself from trying to rescue her beloved pet. She tumbles down and would have drowned in the sand had four hands not pulled her out of the sand fall. This chance encounter with Marwick and Sam brings Kaznim into Tod's world of the pathways and the Wizard Tower. Both girls want the same thing--for the Orm egg to hatch safely, but they want it for reasons as different as night and day. Can Kaznim and Tod trust each other? Told in 12 parts in short chapters, this adventurous romp will have readers turning the pages quickly. Zug's signature illustrations give the characters and settings life and add zest to the story. Tod is growing into her role as Apprentice, and Sage is giving her a depth that is fitting a life torn between loyalties. VERDICT A solid series entry for fans of the first book.--Stacy Dillon, LREI, New York City