New 'Must Read' Fantasy for Kids

Looking for ways to keep your kids reading now that Harry Potter has concluded? According to School Library Journal and TeensReadToo.com, a new fantasy novel by Todd Mitchell might be the answer.

Fort Collins, CO (PRWEB) November 6, 2007 -- "You MUST read this book" says TeensReadToo.com in a starred review of Todd Mitchell's debut novel, The Traitor King, released by Scholastic Press in 2007.

Other critics agree. Booklist calls Mitchell's novel "heart-pounding" and School Library Journal says, "Humor, menace, and mystery suffuse this fast-paced tale ... New surprises and plot twists keep readers enthralled ... This well-written tale is a must for most fantasy readers."

The Traitor King is the story of 11-year-old Darren, and his sister, Jackie's search for their missing uncle. As they follow the clues their uncle left behind, they discover a family secret and a world that they never imagined.

"The book is inspired by a true story," Mitchell said. "Years ago, a friend told me about his uncle who was obsessed with researching their family history. Then one day, this uncle burned all the family records and disappeared. That's all my friend ever told me. But I kept wondering --what did the uncle learn that caused him to erase their past like that? The Traitor King is my fictional answer to that question."

With the recent release of several movies based on popular young adult fantasy series such as Harry Potter, The Dark is Rising, and The Golden Compass, the market for young adult fantasy remains strong. Except now that these other series have concluded, it's up to new writers, like Todd Mitchell, to keep young readers enthralled.

According to the critics, readers of The Traitor King won't be disappointed.

To learn more about The Traitor King, you can visit Todd Mitchell online at http://www.toddmitchellbooks.com.

The Traitor King, Scholastic Press, 2007, Ages 9 & up, 358 pages, ISBN-13: 978-0-439-82788-1

For review copies or author interviews, contact Todd Mitchell at toddmitchellbooks@hotmail.com.

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