Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Born into a family of talented burglars, forgers, and pickpockets, twelve-year-old Jaxter Grimjinx is horrified when his first solo attempt at burglary results in a disastrous fire and the arrest of his family; worse still, he’s now involved in a prophecy that places the entire village of Vengekeep in danger and casts his family in the unwanted role of town saviors. Given the chance to test his own gifts out of the shadow of his family, Jaxter sets off with new friend Callie at his side. Together they tackle errant sages and spiderbats, and they engage in an intricate con of their own in an effort to save their town and their loved ones before the worst parts of the prophecy come true. The result is a charming story that’s at times laugh-out-loud funny but also a satisfying fantasy, offering a magical world and sometimes hapless hero that will strike a chord with fans of the first volumes of the Harry Potter series. Jaxter’s honest, self-deprecating narration draws readers into his personal journey, keeping them at the edge of their seats while lending the story emotional heft. Callie is a daring heroine in her own right, the perfect partner in crime and valor for the sometimes-timid Jaxter. A vast network of well-drawn characters, including Jaxter’s endearing family, quirky townspeople, and multiple allies and villains, augment the imaginative world-building. The first in a series, this novel works as a successful stand-alone but sets up the possibility for further adventures that readers will be excited to join.