From School Library Journal
Gr 3-6-Third in the Wizard Trilogy by Jean Ure, this book follows twins Gemma and Joel as they join their Junior Wizard friend, Ben-Muzzy, for All Spells Night pranks. Or rather, Joel is anxious for mischief with Ben-Muzzy. Gemma is far too practical and kind to join in their foolishness, but goes along to provide a much-needed voice of reason. Their goal is to tease a grungy witch who always gets her spells wrong. Along the way they go through various transformations, visit the silly Proverbial Village where people are always trying to prove proverbs right, and run in to various fantastic creatures such as Smellibots, Wallopers, and Teeny Meanies. Gemma, with her managing ways and common sense, finally saves the day, though one wonders if anyone really reforms in the end. There is word-play aplenty here, and much nonsense. Brian Cant reads the story competently, with an English accent that suits it well. This gentle fantasy romp should please young fans of magical adventures.
Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
It's quite obvious upon first hearing Brian Cant's rendering of this funny tale that he is very talented. The wizard, Joel, and Gemma are hilarious as they visit the Proverbial Village and hear wordplay aplenty on All Spells' Night. They meet Grinwode, a witch, who has trouble reading her book of spells, thus goofing up her intention to turn someone into a curse rather than a hearse; she also casts a smell rather than a spell. Cant imbues each eccentric character with a distinctive personality. The puns, proverbs, and misused words are fun and clever, serving as subtle lessons for young listeners. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine--
Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine
