Beyonders: A World Without Heroes

First things first. I want Brandon Mull's creative brain. How he combines a compelling storyline beginning with a hippopotamus, and then twists the plot into a fight against a tyrannical and magical ruler is absolutely beyond me (no pun intended).

And yet, he does it! Jason and Rachel are searching for the one and only way to save a world that is without hope. Not only that, but they are out to save a world without heroes. I happen to love this premise. How many movies are there today where the world is saved by heroes? How many comic books and action figures and Halloween costumes are devoted to this idea? And yet, Brandon Mull takes this away. The odds are against our two main characters. They have an impossible quest before them, to defeat an unbeatable wizard. This is like The Lord of the Rings, but with a mix of modern day humor. Never fear. While Jason and Rachel may be in a dark world, this isn't a dark story. It's funny. It's adventurous and the relationships are realistic. In my opinion, this is Brandon Mull's Best work.

This story will take you a little time to read through, simply because quests take time. There are obstacles to overcome, lessons characters must learn. But that doesn't mean you're not compelled to read more. Brandon Mull has a great combination of lyrical and plot-moving writing that has you immersed in the world he flawlessly creates.

What to do in a world without heroes, a world that obviously needs to be saved? You must become a hero yourself. 

Appropriate for ages 13+ (due to some violence)