The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel: The Magician

There are some books that you keep coming back to. Some books that feel warm and comfortable. For me this is one of those books. Admittedly targeted at a younger demographic, Michael Scott is an impressive story teller.

In a book full of action and adventure, Scott make sure that we aren’t only getting bogged down by external factors, but also by internal stressors. The dynamic relationship of the twins to Nicholas Flamel continues to be one of the greatest internal battles they weave. Coming back as an adult to this series, it sheds new light to me in a way. When I read this when I was younger, I always understood the view points, reservations, and decisions of Josh and Sophie Newman. However, as an adult I realize just how young the characters are. Which is part of the beauty of the series I think, Scott is able to make the books understandable to those of any age.

However, the reason that I keep coming back to the books, is the human drama. Well human and elder drama. The multitude of historical figures that come parading through the pages, is still something that astounds me to this day. Not only do we have heroes and villains of legend coming to interact with the twins, but they come fully formed with personality and traits that make them incredibly believable. For example in this book we are introduced to perhaps one of my favorite characters of the series. Niccoló Machiavelli. Here he comes into being as a cunning, precise man who some how still seems to win me over with his dry humor.

So after coming back around to once again marvel at the beautiful world building, colorful characters, and unique story line I am happy that I decided to revisit the series. They are a quick read, potentially part of being aimed at young adults, and well worth those few hours to explore such an interesting idea that I haven’t seen anything like it since I first picked up the books.

The Book: 

3.75 – For younger readers I would score this higher, as an older reader I still love the story but wish it was longer for more details. Still one of my favorite comfort series.

 

Image courtesy of Goodreads.com