The Shadow Queen

Gr 4–6—Whether or not they've read the first title in this series, fans of fantasy will find this sequel engaging and fast-paced. In The Battle for Urth, Kara discovered that a local theme restaurant held a portal to the fantasy kingdom of Heldstone. Together, she and Prince Fred defeated the Sorceress, who was determined to take over both Heldstone and Earth. Now, Kara must locate her missing father, who she believes is trapped in Heldstone. Prince Fred is eager to help, but the quest is interrupted by a royal ball, a scheming mean girl courtier, an assassination plot, and the Sorceress's shadowy new form. Soon, Fred and Kara are trekking across a countryside teeming with trolls, elves, and talking animals. The writing is clear and humorous, the characters are likable, and the plot moves swiftly with plenty of adventure.