Changeling (The Oddmire #1)

In this charming middle grade fantasy, two nearly 13-year-old boys raised as twins—one a goblin changeling—set out in search of the truth behind their origins. Cole and Tinn are inseparable, neither knowing nor caring which one might be the changeling, but when a mysterious note calls for the changeling’s return, they waste no time in venturing into the danger-infested woods and the swamp known as the Oddmire. There, the two encounter hazards aplenty, plus a strange girl named Fable and a terrifying witch, Queen of the Deep Dark. Soon joining the gathering are the twins’ mother, Annie, and the goblin Kull, who was responsible for leaving behind a changeling when the boys were infants. Together, they must find a way to defeat the monster at the heart of the Oddmire and restore magic to the woods. Ritter (the Jackaby series) crafts a well-paced adventure filled with whimsy and peril, in which the bonds of family and love prove stronger than any spell or curse. With memorable characters—especially the irrepressible protagonists, who make a delightful team—and an atmospheric setting, this is a strong series opener. Ages 8–12. [em]Agent: Lucy Carson, the Friedrich Agency. (July) [/em]