Children's Literature

When it comes to a character like Skulduggery Pleasant, one has to look past the "skeleton in a suit" and take note of his intelligence, wit and certain "skills" that few possess. If you're a villain, take note or be destroyed. If you are Mr. Pleasant's 12-year-old apprentice, your education and very life may depend on what you learn about and from him. Valkyrie Cain, once known as Stephanie Edgley, is a direct ascendant of the Ancients, a people who know about the secret world of sorcerers and midges in the normal-seeming small-town world of Haggard, Ireland. Unfortunately, an evil element exists as well—The Faceless Ones, who were once exiled from this world?and the evil ones who want these beings to return. When Skulduggery takes Valkyrie under his bony wing, Valkyrie must learn to live two lives: her "reflection," a sort of double, wears the school uniform and attends school as Stephanie, not only filling in, but absorbing a sound education, news and gossip which Valkyrie gains. As the rookie apprentice to the living-dead-wizard detective, Valkyrie is on her way to becoming an elemental and learning magic. Apprentice means hands-on experience: combating villains who are not of this world—vampire Dusk, Scapegrace, Baron Vengeous, disciples of Lord Vile, and so on. So far, Skulduggery has been there when Valkyrie has needed help, but what happens when he doesn't appear in time? Valkyrie fears this will one day be a "pop quiz" she must pass. Author Landy writes a compelling fantasy/futuristic mystery that is certain to keep young readers' attention and imagination. He ups the suspense with characters such as Tannith, an able female who can hold her own anywhere, villainousTorment, the scientist, Kenspeckle, Valkyrie/Stephanie's annoying family members, plus China Sorrows, beautiful and charming but trustworthy? This a great read, with some potential vocabulary building built in. Reviewer: Judy Crowder