The Basilisk's Lair by R.L. LaFevers

The great review catch-up is on! Here is a quick report to kick things off …

School Library Journal:
Grade 3-5 Nate Fludd, budding beastologist, is back in an adventure even greater than his first. His Aunt Phil receives a telegram that a basilisk has escaped from the village of Bamako. The natives need her help, and soon Nate is racing on a camel, flying across the Sahara, and warding off crocodiles from a boat. Aunt Phil has two friendly weasels willing to do battle with the basilisk, and Nate’s troublemaking pet, Greasle, accompanies him every step of the way. The basilisk is terrifying, with it’s deadly venom and scales, and Nate musters all his courage to fight it and continues to wonder who freed the beast and what happened to his parents, who disappeared in Flight of the Phoenix (Houghton, 2009). Children who enjoyed the first book will not be disappointed by the sequel, and those new to the series can easily pick up the story line. The action is nonstop, and the elements of fantasy, mystery, and humor will appeal to a wide audience. Murphy’s spot art and occasional full-page drawings carry the action along nicely.

I read the first book in this series of chapter books a year or so ago. When I saw The Basilisk’s Lair (Nathaniel Fludd, Beastologist, Book 2) at the library recently I decided to check out the second book. It made for a quick read before bed.

This one continues the theme and style of the series: new mythological beast presents new challenge; Nathaniel is not sure he is up to it; but in the end he finds a way.

Cute and well packaged series – not enough suspense or imagination for me to continue to read but recommended for age appropriate readers. (Grade 3–5)

Kevin Holtsberry
I work in communications and public affairs. I try to squeeze in as much reading as I can while still spending time with my wife and two kids (and cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers and Michigan Wolverines during football season).

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