Infinity Ring, Book 1: A Mutiny in Time

Gr 4–6—History is broken and it's up to kid geniuses and best friends Dak and Sera to fix it. When Sera fixes the Infinity Ring, a time travel device created by Dak's parents, a secret society called the Historians recruit them to save the world. A destructive organization known as the SQ has somehow altered the course of history, causing breaks in Earth's time line. Earth gets closer and closer to catastrophe as natural disasters increase and people become fearful. Dak's love of history and Sera's passion for science are a perfect combination as they set out with teen Historian, Riq, to fix the breaks and set history straight. Their first mission is to make sure that Christopher Columbus discovers America. Will three kids be able to fix all the breaks in history and save the world? The first book (Scholastic, 2012) in Dashner's series sets listeners up for quite an adventure. Though this story is set in an alternate reality, kids won't have any trouble figuring out what is going on. The plot is fresh and the appealing characters are self-professed "nerds" who use their abilities to save humankind and the planet. Dak's sarcastic inner monologue is especially humorous. Dion Graham is an excellent narrator, changing voices for each colorful character. There's also an interactive website (infinityring.com) that kids will enjoy. A great kickoff for what is sure to be a rollicking adventure series.—Jenny Ventling, Dayton Metro Library, OH