The Sunken Tower

Gr 4-6–Digby’s day goes from bad to worse when an eyeless, slug-like creature approaches him at the market. Kidnapped, Dig is taken underground and locked into a cell, where his fellow prisoners, Iana and Crina, explain why they’re all there. Years ago, an ambitious young wizard toyed with magic beyond his control, sinking his city deep below the earth and killing thousands. Warped by magic, the wizard devolved into a ravenous monster. Other wizards managed to imprison him, but Dig’s kidnappers, the Brotherhood of Blood, believe that by feeding the creature a human sacrifice, they can tap into powerful magic. However, Dig is a wizard, too, and he and the others plot to escape. Witty dialogue, an abundance of action, and a thrilling climax keep the story moving and readers engaged. Howard’s buoyant cartoons are reminiscent of TV shows like Steven Universe. The more natural tones of the above ground world are a contrast to the bright jewel tones of the underground setting.