Goblin Secrets

Gr 4–8—Alexander's debut children's novel (Margaret K. McElderry Bks., 2012) is a steampunk/fantasy mix set in the city of Zombay, ruled by clockwork automatons that are run by coal made from the hearts of living creatures, including humans. Main character Rownie is one of the orphans taken in by feared master criminal and Baba Yaga-esque witch Graba. He runs afoul of his mistress when he steals money to attend a show put on by a goblin troupe. While trying to escape the vengeful Graba and the gang of toughs he lives with, the thespian goblins take him into their protection. Rownie and the goblins search for his missing brother Rowan who was arrested for acting, which is forbidden by the town's laws. The author is a capable narrator, providing effectively sinister voices for the creepy Graba, her petulant child "Grubs," and lonely Rownie. However, he often continues using characters' intonations when inappropriate. Rownie is a relatively fully developed character, but the others are rather one dimensional. Events jump from one to the next, sometimes without seeming to be related to one another. Still, the world Alexander builds is an intriguing one in this National Book Award finalist. An extra purchase for those looking for steampunk for middle grade listeners.—B. Allison Gray, Goleta Library, CA