Hammer of Witches

Gr 9 Up—Mlawski is creative and daring in her YA debut, blending genres to craft an informative and literary historical fantasy. Raised in 15th-century Spain by his aunt and uncle, Baltasar has no knowledge of his parents' legend. His favorite tales glorify his hero, Amir al-Katib, the renowned Moorish sorcerer and soldier who fought for the freedom of Christian Europe. To Baltasar Infante, stories are both enchanting and extremely useful; they educate, captivate, and enable him to escape from almost any situation. When tragedy strikes in the form of his aunt and uncle's deaths and kidnapping by the Malleus Malificarum, his true identity is revealed, and he is forced to flee Spain. Following the advice of an old prophet, he joins the Niña, Pinta, and Santa Maria westward into the unknown in pursuit of a great evil that will destroy the world. Baltasar is a combination of classic, bumbling coming-of-age protagonist and hero motif, making his character relatable and likable. The novel's storyteller concept is fresh and innovative, making this a lively read for fantasy buffs.—Jamie-Lee Schombs, Loyola School, New York City