The Unchosen One (The Unchosen One #1)

Prophecy meets pratfall in this gleefully self-aware fantasy from Sparkes (The Lighthouse at the World’s End). Ever since her family was eaten by a dragon, white-cued Tassalonia Monk has lived at the citadel on the Isles of Peryll. Now 12, Tassie learns that she is the Chosen One, destined to save the island from the return of the terrifying Shadow by reciting an ancient incantation. But Tassie is not convinced that she possesses the “meek spirit, a calm mind, and learning and wisdom beyond their years” that the prophecy foretold, so she recruits her best friend Spin, a gadget-inventing griffin, and sets out to find the true Chosen One. Along their journey, they acquire the dubious assistance and guidance of Darley, a young elf with a reputation for “theft, deception, and general sneakery.” Despite these apparently lackluster qualities, Darley proves useful as the trio faces off against threats dispatched by the Shadow to eliminate the Chosen One. Tongue-in-cheek subversions of classic fantasy tropes situate this chaotic adventure, which eschews deeper magical worldbuilding in favor of humorous character dynamics and anachronistic touches like restroom hand-dryers and parenting guides made of bound parchment with glossy magazine covers. Dangling plot threads seed excitement for future installments while delivering an appealing fantastical experience. Ages 9–12. (May)