Zac and the Dream Stealers

Gr 4–7—A plague of nightmares is keeping the whole world awake, including Zac Wonder. His grandmother is acting very strange, so he follows her into Nocturne, the world of dreams, where the war that is being waged by the Dream Stealers and their allies-the vampires, werewolves, and goblins-is spilling over into the Waking World. Fighting the good fight are the Knights of Nod, led by Grandmaster Rumpous Tinn, who, unfortunately, has been kidnapped by the Dream Stealers. Fortunately, the remaining Knights, including Granny Wonder, are there to take up the slack. Unfortunately, one of them is a traitor. Fortunately, a group of talented and brave kids is there to help, including Noelle, who has the ability to become invisible; twins Tom (think Loyal Sidekick Ron Weasley) and Tilly, and (briefly) a mysterious Vampire boy. Oh, and Zac, who of course turns out to be magically gifted himself. Yes, this will seem very familiar, but readers who like the more fanciful aspects of Harry Potter will appreciate the magical world of Nocturne, which is described in loving detail, and the quick-paced adventure. Buy where middle-grade fantasy fans are still going through H.P. withdrawal.—Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library