The Legend of Greg

June 4, 2018
In this humorous, heartfelt novel, eighth-grader Greg Belmont discovers the true reason for his family’s long history of failure and bad luck: they’re Dwarves, part of a secret, supernatural community that (literally) went underground ages ago. Now, like their ancient enemies, the Elves, they hide in plain sight while waiting for the long-prophesied return of magic. But just as Greg learns about his heritage and his ability to perform magical feats, his father is kidnapped, an event that heralds the start of a new conflict between Dwarves and Elves. As Greg and his Dwarf allies train for battle, he rallies them to rescue his father and avert tragedy, but his efforts may cost him his best friend. In this start to a new series, An Epic Series of Failures, Rylander conjures up an engaging world, filled with hidden magical beings and a rich history. (Famous Elves and Dwarves include Bill Gates, Picasso, both Roosevelt presidents, and Tom Brady.) The premise and entertaining narrative, with its combination of dry humor and supernatural action, should appeal to Rick Riordan fans, while the cliffhanger ending leaves the story poised to proceed in unexpected directions. Ages 8–12. Agent: Steven Malk, Writers House.

Narrator Robbie Daymond brings the perfect amount of zaniness to the story of Greg, middle school punster and erstwhile magical being. Greg Belmont has always been ordinary, though his family has a history of colossally bad luck--especially on Thursdays. When Greg discovers that he's really a Dwarf and his best friend, Edwin, is an Elf, and that these two magical races have long been at war, he realizes things are bound to become extraordinary. Daymond doesn't make much effort to differentiate characters, making the narration difficult to follow during dialogue. In spite of this, listeners will be drawn in by the enthusiasm and humor of the story and Daymond's infectious energy. N.M. � AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine