  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 09/15/2016 Gerald, a timid young griffin desperate to prove his worth before a significant birthday, ventures from the Enchanted Realm into the Catskill Mountains. There he befriends Brad, a boy who’s spending the summer with his grandmother while dealing with his father’s death. Their mission to save a nearby gnome colony turns into a grand adventure. Written as a series of journal entries and other documents, the story offers well-drawn characters as well as action scenes and humor. This companion book to The Diary of a Mad Brownie (2015), which was retitled Cursed in its paperback edition, is the second engaging fantasy in the Enchanted Files series. - Copyright 2016 Booklist. School Library Journal - 10/01/2016 Gr 4–6—Gerald Overflight is a poetry-writing, cowardly griffin whose anxiety and siblings get the best of him. Griffins are supposed to be fierce, regal, and fearless, but Gerald defies typical griffin stereotypes. The first egg laid but the last to hatch, he runs away when even his father states that he is ashamed of his son. With the prodding of Master Abelard, a gnome with ulterior motives, Gerald soon enters the world of humans, where he befriends Brad Ashango. Despite their obvious differences, the two soon discover their similarities, establishing trust and confidence and ultimately saving a secret community of gnomes. Coville brings his signature wit and humor to this fantasy story. The text is composed of diary entries, letters, articles from enchanted books, and more, forcing readers to independently put the pieces together. The inclusion of the personal writings of Gerald, Master Abelard, and Brad allows for strong character development. The only major flaw is the rushed climax and falling action, which feel abrupt and too easily accomplished. However, this second installment adds authentic and engaging, multidimensional characters to a strong series that finds heroes in outcasts. VERDICT Recommended for medium and large middle grade collections looking to add high-interest fantasy.—Mary-Brook J. Townsend, Episcopal Collegiate School, Little Rock, AK - Copyright 2016 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
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