Max Magic

Max loves magic, it runs in the family, and from the very first time that his dad showed him how to do a trick, he has been learning, practising and performing. He helps his dad on the market and often uses his magic to wow passers-by to help sell some of the toys from the stall. And things were going well until the unfortunate incident involving Bottley the Bully, a boomerang, the Crayfish twins and some rather pungent spices. Now his dad is having to pay a large sum of money to the twins, or he will lose his stall, and Max feels like it's all his fault. If only he could find a way to get the money...

When Max discovers and opens an old chest at his gran's antique shop, a chest that belonged to Arthur Andrews, something strange begins to happen. What follows is a magical adventure where Max, his friends and his dog, Lucky, create the greatest plan to get the money and save Max's dad's stall.

Max Magic, Stephen Mulhern and Tom Easton's magical adventure story, is filled with jokes and slapstick comedy that younger children will love. They have set up the start of what will be a fabulous adventure series for children who can enjoy fun and madcap moments with Max and co, whilst learning some magic tricks of their own, too. A pleasant and engaging read. Curriculum links to: magic, family, friendship, bullying, honesty and teamwork.

304 pages / Reviewed by Donna Burkert, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 7+