The Bad Books #1: Bad Magic

Bad Magic follows 12-year-old Clay, who becomes disillusioned with magic after his brother's disappearance. When graffiti from his journal appears on his school's wall, Clay is unjustly blamed and sent to Earth Ranch, a camp for "troubled" kids on a volcanic island. There, he encounters strange events, including a Spanish-speaking llama and a ghostly presence, leading him to question his disbelief in magic. As Clay unravels the island's mysteries, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and adventure.​

Recommendation: This book is ideal for middle-grade readers who enjoy a blend of mystery, adventure, and humor. The engaging plot and relatable protagonist make it a captivating read for those interested in magical realism and personal growth narratives.​

Ideal for:

• Children aged 8–12
• Fans of mystery and fantasy genres​
• Readers who enjoyed The Secret Series by the same author​

Similar Reads:

• The Name of This Book Is Secret by Pseudonymous Bosch​
• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart​
• Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein​

Stylistic Features:

• First-person narrative with humorous authorial asides​
• Incorporation of puzzles and riddles enhancing reader engagement​
• Illustrations that complement the whimsical storytelling​

Content Warnings: There are no significant content warnings for this book. The story includes mild suspense and supernatural elements appropriate for the target age group.