Marcy and the Riddle of the Sphinx

Gr 1–3—This picture book/graphic novel hybrid centers on Marcy, an ancestor of the story's unnamed narrator. Marcy is born into a family of adventurers, but alas—she is afraid of the dark. Is she is even a real Brownstone? When her father leaves on "urgent business" lasting more than a week, Marcy uses a magical Wind Weaver feather to embark on a journey to find him. She soon comes up against Thoth, Egyptian god of knowledge and the moon. Thoth refuses to release Marcy's father from the Sphinx's secret tunnels unless she brings him the moon eye of Ra. Marcy must jump aboard a flying ship, manned by other members of the Egyptian pantheon, where she finds that her honesty and integrity serve her well in saving the day and overcoming her fears. Todd-Stanton's whimsical illustrations feature mazelike details chronicling Marcy's quest throughout the book. However, though the story is enjoyable, the conflict wraps up a little too neatly.