I’m offering readers a peek behind the Byways header. On a related note, do you recognize the four creatures it features? From top left, circling clockwise, they are a unicorn, a griffin, a dragon, and a phoenix. The topmost animal changes out from book to book. In this case, we have an eagle, representative of Ian Johns, who can Change into a golden eagle.
Greenglass House is a modern mystery with a historical twist set in a hilltop inn. (The stained glass windows made me very happy.) OCDaniel introduces us to a boy who struggles with compulsions he doesn’t understand. And Warbow continues the Saga of Roland Innes. (Robin Hood & Friar Tuck, anyone?)
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For your Bookshelf. Nothing encourages kids to read and reread a series like having copies on your home bookshelves. The award-winning Byways Books are available as both paperbacks and hardcover library editions. (Contact CJ via email if you’re interested in ordering author-signed copies.)
If spooky is your style, the Lockwood & Co. mysteries are going to keep you on the edge of your seat. Ghosts who can kill with a touch? (Eep.) The Graveyard Book was another of my online book club’s selections, about a boy raised by ghosts. And I’m still very much enjoying the Ranger’s Apprentice series. (This one especially, since my hometown is Scandia.)
Every one of the Byways Books includes beautiful full-color art by my illustrator, Hannah Christenson. Here’s a sampling from Book #9, Through the Notches: A Zane Johns Adventure.
Jackaby involves an investigator who can see things others cannot, as told from the point of view of his new assistant, Ms. Rook. The Clockwork Three also has a historical setting (with a steampunk ambiance). And Eddie is a beautifully illustrated story about a young Edgar Allen Poe, who must solve a case to prove his innocence.
Ganix Johns is a little too curious for his own good. He’s a born mischief-maker with a talent for getting into trouble. Ganix is always ready for a good time or a good meal, and everywhere he goes, he makes friends.
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C. J. Milbrandt 