Jack

Gr 7-Up Jack is back in this book that follows "Jack: Secret Histories" (Tor, 2008), which is important to read first. He and his friend Weezy are once again exploring in the New Jersey Pine Barrens where they find a large, pyramid-shaped cage similar to the small version they discovered along with a dead body in the first volume. They learn that Cody, a five-year-old neighbor, is missing and wonder if it has anything to do with the putrid-smelling, hulking creature they encountered in the woods near the pyramid. Was it the Jersey Devil? Do members of the creepy and possibly dangerous Ancient Septimus Fraternal Order Lodge know the secret of the pyramid? Subplots such as Jack's discovery and exposure of a local politician's domestic abuse and Jack's attraction to classmate Karina are effectively woven into the story. Readers who enjoyed the well-drawn characters, believable 1980s setting, and compelling situations in the first volume will find them here as well, but they'll also experience "middle book" syndrome and will hope that the still-to-come finale will ultimately piece it all together."Diane P. Tuccillo, Poudre River Public Library District, Fort Collins, CO" Copyright 2010 Media Source Inc.