THE MAGIC THIEF

This is typical boy-wizard-rags-to-riches fare. What lifts it above the ordinary is a puckish interpretation of its main character, Conn, by narrator Greg Steinbruner. Also in its favor, and something quite often missing in young adult fantasy, is a likable and trustworthy, if somewhat curmudgeonly, adult. Nevery Finglas, a washed-up old wizard, takes Conn on as an apprentice despite the fact that Conn has picked his pocket. In a world that runs on the power of magic, someone is stealing it, and together they must discover who. Steinbruner's skillful performance helps differentiate a wide array of characters and enhances the story’s entertainment. D.G. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2008]