Jax Freeman and the phantom shriek

Following "the brawl back in Raleigh," Black 12-year-old Jax Freeman is sent to stay with his grandmother and uncle in Chicago. But when he arrives, bizarre things start to happen. First he overhears a conversation between a belt buckle and pair of glasses. Then he encounters a stranger who tells him he has a legacy to fulfill. Things take a dark turn when he's attacked by a train conductor intent on wearing Jax's skin. The supernatural occurrences continue as Jax starts at a new school, where he joins a class of summoners who can access magic through family heirlooms. Jax is convinced he's in the wrong place, but everyone seems to know him and his family name. When he accidentally unleashes a spirit and learns about a magical war that's been brewing for decades between his family and another, it's up to Jax to use his newfound powers to stop malevolent forces from endangering others. Though the magical lore is occasionally muddled, Mbalia (the Tristan Strong series) nevertheless delivers jam-packed action sequences and fleshed-out depictions of family, shame, and bravery via Jax's humorous voice in this absorbing romp. Ages 8--12. Agent: Patrice Caldwell, New Leaf Literary. (Oct.)

After his alleged participation in a brawl, twelve-year-old Jackson Freeman is sent to Chicago to live with an uncle and grandmother he barely knows. Awkward and shy, Jax expects to confront the typical woes of sixth-grade life: new school, classmates, routines. However, these ordinary challenges are soon overshadowed by the discovery of a magical world where families summon powers through their ancestors. Enrolled in a special class for the children of summoning families, Jax learns of his magical legacy, an inheritance that reveals unique talents and historical mistakes. As he navigates this new world, Jax makes allies and confronts powerful adversaries, all while attempting to balance his magical training with the challenges of everyday life. Each conflict tests his understanding of loyalty, courage, family, and friendship, culminating in a task that will transform his and his friends' lives forever. Filled with adventure, heart, and a touch of humor, Mbalia's (Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky, rev. 7/20, and sequels) novel is a well-crafted speculative tale that captures the complexity of family and friendship bonds and the difficulty of finding and accepting one's true self. The fast-paced plot and Jax's memorable, conversational voice will keep readers engaged. This compelling narrative offers a thoughtful exploration of identity, heritage, and ancestral connection. S. R. ToliverSeptember/October 2024 p.81 (c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.