Star of Stone

Gr 5—9—This second book in the series reunites the four children who need to save the world, this time bringing them together in Harvey's home city of New York. When Harvey realizes that he is being followed and in danger, he is joined by his friends Elettra, Mistral, and Sheng, and they attempt to follow the clues left by mysterious professor Alfred Van Der Berger, learning more about their huge task and meeting new allies and enemies. Readers will be intrigued by the Manhattan setting, the clues and codes, and the sense of danger and urgency that follows the characters through their adventures. A 16-page full-color section in the middle of the book provides maps, pictures, and additional enigmatic clues. The translation maintains a consistently tense tone. Relationships continue to develop as the characters learn more about their once-in-a-century task and the group that preceded them, providing realism and balance to the many all-out-action scenes.—Beth L. Meister, Milwaukee Jewish Day School, WI