Daniel X

Gr 5 Up—Daniel X, teen Alien Hunter and Protector of Earth, returns in this third offering (Little, Brown, 2010) in James Patterson's terrific sci-fi series. This time, Daniel is battling Number Three on the list of alien outlaws—Beta Phosphorus—a fire-breathing creature intent on burning up Earth's natural resources. Daniel discovers his ability to travel back in time and returns to 600 A.D. England to battle a much younger Beta and change history. Along the way, he befriends Pendy (aka Arthur Pendragon, aka King Arthur) and Pendy's master, Merlin. Merlin recognizes Daniel for the alien hunter he is and a bond develops between the trio. Daniel is there when Pendy pulls the sword from the stone and becomes King of all England. Merlin lets Daniel know that alien hunters have been there before him and they left him a tool he could use to destroy Beta: Stonehenge. All this fun is enhanced by Milo Ventimiglia's (Gilmore Girls, Heroes) fabulous narration. He moves effortlessly between American and British accents and infuses each character with a unique personality. More of Daniel's back story is revealed, and Ventimiglia allows a vulnerable Daniel to emerge. This is a must-have for science-fiction collections and stands easily on its own. But be prepared for requests for the first two volumes.—Tricia Melgaard, Centennial Middle School, Broken Arrow, OK