The Icy Hand

November 1, 2008
Gr 4-6-Stanley Buggles returns to Crampton Rock, where another adventure awaits him. His discovery of a valuable amulet called the Ibis in "The Wooden Mile" (Roaring Brook, 2008) has awakened the Stormbringers, two pirate ghosts intent on reclaiming the artifact. Stanley receives help from the talking pike and the ghost of his Great-Uncle Bart as he tries to prevent the pirates from succeeding at all costs. Though even if he does, there is a risk that the Ibis's presence could create a greater threat, setting the scene for bigger adventures in future books. This offering has a more coherent and linear plot than the first title, moving through the action without the gaps and abrupt plot additions that plagued that book. The focus is still on action without much in the way of character development, but there is more substance. Fans of Philip Ardagh's work may find some similarities that will attract them. Mould's black-and-white illustrations are well done, particularly those of the characters."Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL"

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