The Alchemyst: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel

Scott, Michael. The Alchemyst: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel. Delacorte Press, 2007. ISBN-13: 978-0-385-73357-1.

Plot
Sophie and Josh Newman are twins, teenagers living the quiet life in San Francisco. This is until Josh's boss, Nicholas Flamel and his book shop is suddenly attacked by a Dr. John Dee. Suddenly the whole store is destroyed by magic and Dr. Dee is demanding for some sort of book. Nicholas then reveals himself as an alchemyst, a 700 year old man who found the secret of eternal life protecting the Book of Abraham the Mage. Sophie and Josh are then thrown into a world where legends and myths are true and that they are part of a prophecy that will determine the fate of the world.

Critical Evaluation
The book is well written and with a clear narrative which was easy to follow. The book also uses actual myths and legends and facts of people and of the world so the reader gets a sense of realism while reading. The plot is also constantly moving with twists and non stop action. This book is best suitable for those who like magical adventure tales.

Reader's Annotation
Sophie and Josh are twins that were leading normal lives. That is until Josh's boss Nicholas Flamel is attacked and finds out that he is actually a 700 year old alchemyst that is guarding the Book of Abraham the Mage that contains the secret to eternal life. Suddenly the twins embark on an adventure, facing opponents that only existed in legends.

About the Author
Michael Scott is a native or Ireland. In addition to writing he is also an authority of Celtic folklore which has gone on and influenced his writing. He stated writing over twenty-five years ago and writes for both youth and adults.

He additionally writes for stage and screen and is praised for his contributions to children's literature.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Magic Fiction
Twins Fiction
Historical Fiction

Book Talking Ideas
Why do you think Nicholas is not telling Sophie and Josh everything? Do you think it's for their own good or is he hiding something?
Do you think that Josh and Sophie have a unique relationship because they're twins?
What do you think of the idea that every legend has a bit of truth in it?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issues
None

Why Included in Selection
A very fun and interesting historical fiction.