One Realm Beyond (Realm Walkers)
Gr 4–7—Realm Walkers have the ability to travel easily between the nine worlds and the mandate to help maintain the peace and prosperity of those worlds. Young Cantor can't wait to start his official training, but first he must find his Constant (as in companion)—a shape-shifting dragon partner. Unfortunately, it's the goofy, over-eager, and just plain annoying Bridger who shows up. And yet, he proves he's much more than he seems to be. The same holds true with the other companions of the road who join Cantor in his travels, including Bixby, a tiny and talented young woman who knows she is destined for some great, as yet undiscovered work. Add to that an ultrafeminine and wily spy (who happens to be a dragon), a mysterious mentor, and an even more mysterious warrior angel, all of whom join in the fight to uncover and end corruption in the Realm Walkers Guild. Faith and honor are highlighted in this decent start to what should turn out to be a pleasantly entertaining middle-grade fantasy/adventure series.—Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library