Book Summary: Annie and Jack are yet again called on by Merlin, through is helpers Teddy and Kathleen, to go on a mission. This time they are going to Venice to save the city from a terrible flood. Armed with their research guide and a book of magic rhymes, they arrive in historic Venice during the carnival. They must solve the clues before time runs out to save the beautiful city.
APA Reference of Book: Osborne, M. P. (2005). Carnival at Candlelight. New York: Random House.
Impressions: This was a cute story that included a lot of information about the city of Venice as well as famous artists and different mythology. I think that this book has enough action to keep young readers interested without getting confused. However, readers over the age of eight or nine might be a little bored with the simplified story telling and plot. To an older reader, Jack and Annie really have to do very little to save Venice. They walk around the city a bit and have some mishaps, but once they solve the riddle and get to the lion it is just a matter of flying out to ask Neptune to stop the storm. I also couldn't help but be amused that everyone Jack and Annie encountered, whether it be Venetians or Roman gods or living statuary, spoke English and were totally able to help. With that being said, I don't think that type of detail will be of any matter to a young reader who is more likely to be caught up int eh action, magic, and mystery.
Professional Review: “Characterization is sketchy and older children will find the plot predictable, but readers just past the easy-to-read stage will find it satisfying. It should attract those who devour Ruth Chew’s books”.
Sherman, L. L. (1992). Review: Magic Tree House. School Library Journal. 38(9), p. 70. Retrieved from http://www.slj.com/
Library Uses: I think that the entire Magic Treehouse series has multiple uses since they span so many topics. Because of that, you can attract a lot of different readers with varying interests or tie the books into different programs according to theme. Personally, I would like to make some sort of treehouse style display to show off the our library's collection and get more people interested in the story. I know I find myself recommending these books to parents and children alike because of the educational value that can be gleaned from them.
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