Warriors of the Black Shroud

Gr 4–6—A boy with a scar on his face who has no idea of his magical potential or his identity as "the Chosen One"; a smart, talkative girl; a long-playing battle between good and evil. No, it's not that book. Not even close. Eleven-year-old Walker is typical bully bait-he reads, hangs out with his mom, and has that weird scar. He's not interested in accompanying a strange kid named Eddie to a place he's never heard of. But he does. Nebula is some kind of otherworld that is completely dark, except for the light of the Source, which provides energy for everyone there, except the evil bad guys, who have been plotting to take over for a very long time. Spies are uncovered, battles with unicorns and dragons are fought, and politics are played. When the king is killed, Walker is supposed to take over, but ultimately, it is Eddie who proves his bravery and gets his Chosen status returned. And the girl? Don't ask. There is some violence but it is remarkably bloodless (the king seems to be the only true victim). The writing is serviceable, the characters are pretty flat, and in a crowded marketplace of fantasy, this one does not stand out.—Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library