  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 09/01/2017 A year after the events of Greenglass House (2014), Milo and Meddy have yet another puzzle to solve. This time, a notorious map has gone missing just as a merry band of oddly costumed carolers arrive at the inn, and an infamous thief just might be the culprit. Milo and Meddy use their ample deductive skills, as well as garden-variety sneakiness, to uncover the scheme through a flurry of chaotic red herrings. Milford’s sequel follows a very similar structure as the first book, but she keeps it fresh by significantly expanding on the mythology and history of Nagspeake, much of which ties into Milford’s The Left-Handed Fate (2016). Her richly visual language brings scenes vividly to life, and while there’s certainly enchanting magic to be had, Milo’s talents don’t come from supernatural gifts but rather his own imagination and intelligence, which is an empowering change from classic fantasy narratives. Occasionally, purposeful conversations drag down the pace, but those who love Milford’s wildly imaginative world of Nagspeake will be delighted by this otherwise entertaining, magic-tinged mystery. - Copyright 2017 Booklist. School Library Journal - 09/01/2017 Gr 4–6—The Greenglass House and Milo are back with a sequel to rival the first book. One year has passed and once again Christmas break is upon the Pine family—but, as luck would have it, this will not be the quiet holiday that the family craves. Between a suspicious art student, old acquaintances from last year's Christmas adventure, and a group of odd carolers, this historic house becomes the setting of yet another caper. Milo adopts a new persona and skill set from the role playing game Odd Trails to figure out who has stolen the mysterious derrotero of famed smuggler Violet Cross. This nautical map charts the impossible coast of Nagspeake; a map that smugglers and customs agents alike would desperately love to have in their arsenal. Milford artfully weaves a mystery that revolves around a large group of characters, new and old. Characters are quirky, scheming, funny, and not entirely what readers may expect. VERDICT A solid middle grade book best for those who appreciate a good plot twist and a great story. A recommended purchase for most libraries, especially where there are fans of the first installment.—Lisa Nabel, Tacoma Public Library, WA - Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
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