I actually really liked this book. The story is simple, but the characters are very likable. It makes a good/easy read. I recommend for elementary or middle school aged. ( )

For a teen fantasy novel that was published originally in 1987 this novel does a fair job of sounding like it was written much more recently. It has a similar tone to many of the teen fantasy novels that have flooded the market in the last couple of years, even though it refrains from containing any latent romantic themes and focuses instead on protagonists who are brother and sisters. Having been re-released after the success of the Vampire Diaries tv series (and re-release of the novels) this book is sure to bridge some of the teen readers who love vampire romance novels into the fantasy genre. ( )

Really enjoyed this and looking forward to reading more in this series. I find LJ Smith's books a bit hit-and-miss but this is nice - different storyline from most, and interesting. It held my attention all the way through once I'd passed the beginning. Recommended to any who likes children's adventure stories or magic! ( )

nyeaa..it was just alright..i just couldnt help but get somewhat irritated every once in a while because the main characters didn't seem believable to me..compared to the kind of books i've read in the same genre and age bracket, this one appears to still have a lot of catching up to do..the kids are so hopeless most of the time and their adventures on the other side of the mirror were so tame and short...the author didnt seem able to properly convey the nuances of whatever situation the kids were in..however, that notwithstanding..i'm still willing to give it another go by continuing to read the sequel to this, in the hopes that it might improve..but i still cant help but feel that these books were written out of an attempt at creating a moneyspinner, rather than from the passion of adventure.. i'm sorry if it seems harsh, but there it is..thats my two cents ( )

The Good Stuff

* Magic, sorcerers, flying serpents, talking foxes and lots of adventure!
* Intriguing bad guys/gals
* Wonderfully real and interesting characters
* You won't want to put it down
* Reminded me a little of Lion Witch and Wardrobe without the religious imagery. Not really the story but the way the children worked together. Very real sibling relationships.
* Fantastic opening that really grabs your attention and draws you into the story
* Looking forward to the next book in the series "Heart of Valor"
* Great epic fantasy quest for the younger set

The Not so Good Stuff

* A wee bit predictable, but just a wee bit
* Again irritated by the fact that the parents are useless and out of touch

Favorite Quotes/Passages

"Yes, you! Why do you think I have wasted all this time recounting the history of Wildfolk? For my own amusement? I need help, and you four have able bodies and fair to middling minds. Or so I thought."



"You are responsible for what will happen to you next, you are the creator of your own future."

"Do you think Morgana would let me trade in my Kryptonite for a dirt bike?"

What I Learned

* That I would love the ability to talk to animals
* I much prefer YA fantasy novels to those written for adults

Who should/shouldn't read

* Pretty much anyone who likes to lose themselves in a story
* The darkness/violence may be a little much for younger readers
* Thinking my neighbors daughter is going to love this

4 Dewey's ( )