Young Adult

Background

Published in 2022, “Bastille vs the Evil Librarians” co-written by Brandon Sanderson and Janci Patterson, the focus shifts to Bastille, the fierce and pragmatic knight from the Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians series. This story takes place after the events of the original series and delves into Bastille’s perspective as she takes on a mission to save Alcatraz and restore order. As Bastille grapples with her responsibilities and insecurities, she must confront the Librarians’ schemes and rally allies to prevent their plans from succeeding.

My Thoughts

As the last of the “Evil Librarian” books, Sanderson and Patterson did a great job in bringing it all together in a neat bow. This series seemed like it was fun to write as again and again the text refers to writing devices, methodologies, and terms in the course of the story. It was a fun read.

Recommendation

Great series. I recommend it for younger readers.

Background

Published in 2016, “In The Dark Talent,” fifth book in Brandon Sanderson’s Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians series, Alcatraz Smedry grapples with the consequences of his unique abilities as he faces his most personal and dangerous mission yet. Determined to rescue his father and stop the Evil Librarians’ growing influence, Alcatraz must venture into the Highbrary, the Librarians’ central stronghold. The story explores Alcatraz’s struggle with self-doubt, his evolving understanding of his powers, and the challenges of living up to the expectations placed upon him.

My Thoughts

Most of the book was very similar to the rest of the series with the exception that it had a very abrupt end. The fifth book was repeatedly touted as the last book in the series and it just ended on a sad note somewhat like the Empire Strikes back. It left the reader wanting more. Unfortunately, for readers who read the “last” book right after it came out, the next book was 8 years in coming. Fortunately for me, that was a couple of years ago and the new last book is available at my library. 🙂

Recommendation

A great fake ending!

Background

Published in 2016, “The Shattered Lens” by Brandon Sanderson is the fourth book in the Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians series. Alcatraz Smedry faces a critical challenge as he works to defend the Free Kingdom city of Tuki Tuki from an impending invasion by the Librarians. With his talent for breaking things and the support of his allies, including Bastille and his extended Smedry family, Alcatraz confronts the Librarians’ advanced weaponry and their attempts to seize control. The story delves into themes of leadership, responsibility, and ingenuity as Alcatraz navigates the complexities of protecting his world while growing into his role as a leader.

My Thoughts

This was a fun read and full of odd one offs and insider humor. I love that! As with the other books in the series, I feel like it would have been more effective if Alcatraz was older. Much of the narrative and actions of the characters feel like they are a few years older at a minimum. Regardless, I’m almost to the end of the series and I’m excited to see where it goes from here.

Recommendation

Fun quick read.

Background

Published in 2016, “The Knights of Crystallia” is the third installment in Brandon Sanderson’s Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians series. (It was originally published by Scholastic in October 2009 under the title Alcatraz Versus the Knights of Crystallia. After Sanderson reacquired the rights, Tor Books re-released the novel on April 19, 2016.)

In this adventure, Alcatraz Smedry finally reaches the Free Kingdoms, specifically the city of Crystallia. There, he confronts new challenges, including political intrigue and familial responsibilities, all while continuing his battle against the Evil Librarians. The narrative delves deeper into the Free Kingdoms’ culture and the Smedry family’s unique talents, blending Sanderson’s characteristic humor with action and fantasy elements.

My Thoughts

The plot thickens as Alcatraz finally visits his home. Like a similar orphan with powers (cough… Potter), he is a big deal in the world unknown to we simple harshlanders (muggles). But enough on that.

Alcatraz is a fun character and continues to build into his eventual epic self. I worry it is moving a little too fast in terms of what he can do and his comfort level given we are on book 3 of 5. (E.g. The ease in assuming the leadership status and the power in his “Talent”. Sanderson has had a history of over inflating his heroes toward the end of the series. Several even made it to god status (“little g”, to borrow from Starlord’s father Ego.) I also feel the series would benefit from him being a little older in this book, though I’m assuming Sanderson is trying to stave off the relationship with Bastille as keeping them young keeps their relationship more the in puppy love status.

Regardless, it’s been an enjoyable ride thus far and I’m looking forward to the next book.

Recommendation

A great quick read.

Background

Published in 2008 and republished in 2016, “The Scrivener’s Bones” is the second installment in Brandon Sanderson’s Alcatraz Versus the Evil Librarians series. In this sequel, young Alcatraz Smedry continues his battle against the nefarious Librarians, venturing into the mysterious Library of Alexandria to rescue his father and grandfather.

My Thoughts

The series continues with the whimsy and humor appropriate to a writer not afraid to poke fun at the craft. Sanderson keeps his dialog surprisingly light as tragedies and trauma unfold in the plot. Young Alcatraz’s character continues on the hero’s journey seeing his first real experiences in leadership as he develops into that role.

Recommendation

It was a fun read.

Background

Published in 2007, “Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians”, is the first book in Brandon Sanderson’s Alcatraz Versus the Evil Librarians series. Readers are introduced to Alcatraz Smedry, an ordinary 13-year-old boy with a knack for breaking things—until he discovers that his “talent” is actually a powerful magical ability. On his birthday, Alcatraz receives a mysterious bag of sand and is plunged into a secret war against the Evil Librarians, a group that controls knowledge and history to maintain their grip on power.

My Thoughts

This was a fun book was an interesting premise. Much like Pixar films or the world of Harry Potter, this universe is portrayed as along side our own. Sanderson has done a great job of creating a whole new world complete with hidden continents, peoples, technologies, and all of it is being kept from “The Hushlanders” better know as us. The book uses a narration style commenting directly on the literary devices employed through the plot. The result is a fun and whimsical narrative that not only exposes readers to writing methods and terminology but also teaches these concepts directly through its self-aware use and first-person commentary.

Recommendation

I enjoyed it and look forward to the next book in the series.