Tara Duncan and the Spellbinders

Gr 4–7—Twelve-year-old Tara Duncan has hidden her telekinetic powers from all but a few select friends. After overhearing a mysterious conversation, she confronts her grandmother and learns that her guardian has been keeping her identity as a powerful spellbinder a secret. She also learns that her mother, whom she believed to be dead, is actually being held in a fortress on the magical planet of OtherWorld. Tara doesn't have long to dwell on this new information, as her house is attacked by the evil Bloodgrave leader and she is soon whisked away to the Living Castle of Travia for her own safety. She quickly makes friends and learns more about her powers, despite her hesitation to use her often-uncontrollable magic. It becomes clear that apprentices have been disappearing all over OtherWorld and she, too, seems to be a target. With her new friends at her side, Tara is determined to both rescue her mother and find out who has been kidnapping the young spellbinders. As the first title in a fantasy series, there is much to learn about spellbinders and OtherWorld. Unfortunately, the story is often hampered by awkward exposition in both the narrative and dialogue. Tara is likable, as are her friends, and though there are missed opportunities for development of her character, readers will admire her stubborn nature and her bravery.—Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL