Shadows of the Dark Crystal

April 15, 2016
A young Gelfling girl discovers hidden evils in this prequel to Jim Henson's 1982 film The Dark Crystal. Naia, training to become the matriarch of her clan, has never ventured beyond her swamp home. When her brother's accused of being a traitor to the Skeksis Lords--creatures entrusted with the care of the life-giving crystal that runs through the world--Naia's mother sends Naia and her father to stand in his stead. But her father and their escort are (conveniently) harmed, and Naia must travel on alone. On her journey, described in rich prose that paints a vivid picture, including the physical differences among the diverse Gelfling races, Naia discovers all is not well--worst of all, the crystal vein has taken on an amethyst hue, spreading corruption. While Naia and Kylan, a storyteller who becomes her travel partner and friend, are both likable and fallible, the Skeksis all seem interchangeable: disappointingly one-dimensional, gluttonous, and unmannerly. The book ends in a sequel setup. The many new words and concepts in this intricate fantasy world can be overwhelming, though much can be gleaned through context. And while the plot and characters are rather basic, the intriguing world and lush, descriptive, often even flowery prose make up for some of what's lacking. Godbey's occasional black-and-white illustrations add atmosphere. Fans of this first installment will be glad of the movie while waiting for the book's sequel. (Fantasy. 10-14)

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June 1, 2016

Gr 6-9-Journey to Thra, a deeply magical world where one young gelfling woman is about to begin an epic quest that will shake Thra to its roots. Naia yearns to see the world beyond the swampland she calls home, yet she knows her role is to remain and become the matriarch of her people. However, when word comes that her twin brother has been accused of treason, Naia is the only one who can make the arduous journey to the Castle of Crystal. Determined to clear her brother's name and set things right, Naia finds all that she knows thrown into question. What is the dark and malevolent force that is creeping through the land? What connection does it have to the great crystal and the Skeksis Lords in the castle? What she learns will put her very life at risk and set in motion events that will determine the fate of her world. With deft nods to the original Dark Crystal movie and a passionate attention to detail, the author has fashioned an impressive prequel. Fans (who will instantly recognize certain elements) and newcomers alike will find themselves immersed in a new narrative, with new protagonists and dangers to face. Pencil sketch interior illustrations will help readers visualize uncommon characters. This author's debut fantasy title is the first of four that chronicle the early history of the Dark Crystal, but it remains to be seen if he can pull off an upbeat adventure when the dark future is already established. VERDICT Readers who crave otherworld fantasy such as Jaleigh Johnson's The Mark of the Dragonfly and Paul Durham's The Luck Uglies will enjoy discovering this new series.-Stephanie Whelan, New York Public Library

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

May 15, 2016
Grades 6-9 Something is very wrong with planet Thra. Normally peaceable animals are turning violent, the Dark Woods are even more dangerous than usual, and the protectors of the land, the Skesis, have accused Naia's twin brother of treason. As Naia travels to the Castle of the Crystal to confront the accusers, she gains a traveling companion, learns the horrible secret of the dark crystals, and makes heart-wrenching decisions to try to rescue her world. This is described as prehistory for Jim Henson's 1982 film The Dark Crystal, and it is an above-average high-fantasy tale. At times the place and character names are challenging, but fans of the earlier works will be right at home among the Gelfling, Drenchen, and Vapra tribes. Characters and situations are compelling, and this first of a planned four-volume series aptly sets the stage and the conflict and tugs strongly on the heartstrings, setting readers up for more great adventures. Final illustrations from Froud and Godbey, the film's conceptual designer, were unavailable for review.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)