Brinley knows the story of how the bell in the church in her town rang and brought her father to find her left there as a baby.  Now the church bell is ringing again, calling Brinley toward it.  The confusing thing, however, is that the church has no bell.  So, what is calling Brinley toward the church?  Should she follow?

In the first book of the Magemother series, The Mage and the Magpie by Austin J. Bailey (Lexile: Unknown; Interest Level: Grades 4-7), two worlds are joined in the craziest of ways.  One world is full of magic, but the magic is slowly being corrupted as the mages and the Magemother disappear.  The other world is the familiar one of Colorado, where Brinley has lived as long as she can remember.  When Brinley is called toward the church and whatever lies beyond it, she is unsure if she is ready for the challenge ahead of her, but the call of adventure is fierce.

Readers of fantasy who have always wondered where their imaginations may be able to take them will enjoy Brinley's journey past the known world.  Those of us who enjoy adventures safe in our homes find ourselves wondering if we would make the same choices as Brinley. (366 p.)

The Ratsos brothers are tough and strong just like their Dad.  They want everyone in the neighborhood to know it, too, so they look for opportunities to show just how tough they are.  Somehow, though, their plans always seem to veer in a different direction!  Join the Infamous Ratsos (Lexile: 580; Interest Level: Grades 1-3) by Kara LaReau as they try to prove just how tough they are by blocking a neighbor's windows, bullying the new girl at school, snow piling, and other adventures.  I am sure you can't wait to find out how proud their dad will be!

Readers of all ages, but particularly those just beginning with chapter books, will enjoy the crazy adventures of these two boys.  I certainly look forward to reading it, and the new sequel, to my little boy! (64 p.)