Keeper of the Rend

(Paperback, Reprint)

Available Formats

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

From the New York Times bestselling author of the Last Magician series comes a searing and satisfying (Kirkus Reviews) middle grade debut steeped in magical realism about a bird-loving boy who moves to the countryside where he encounters dangerous creatures invading through a rip in the sky.

Xavier T. Fletcher is an Odd Duck. At least, thats what everyone in his sleepy little suburb seems to think. Luckily, birds happen to be the aspiring naturalists favorite things, so he doesnt mind the label quite as much as you might expect.

But when Xaviers father loses his job, everything changes. His family is forced to move to his Nana Susans farm. There, he meets Clementine, a strange, messy girl who doesnt see him as an Odd Duck at all. Too bad she has the unfortunate habit of using her slingshot to hunt the birds he loves. Xaviers not sure what to think when Clem assures him that they arent really birds. Hes even less sure when he discovers that Clem isnt lying.

The bird-like creatures come from the Rend, a tear in the sky between our world and the Nothers, and the objects they carry in their beaks from that cold, dark place are dangerous. Its up to Xavier and Clem to find a way to keep the creatures out of our world. But how can he protect the Rend when he suspects Clem hasnt told him the whole truth about what shes doing

Reviews

"Theworldbuilding is tight in this eerie take onthebattle between good and evil with a distinct message abouttheenvironmental impactofhuman activitySearing and satisfying. -- Kirkus Reviews * 6/1/24 *
"In her middle grade debut, Maxwellpresents through a realistic lens an approachable, magical adventure thats reminiscent ofA Wrinkle in Time." -- Publishers Weekly * 7/8/2024 *
"The enthralling story employs delightfully precise and sophisticated language to conjure a disquieting countryside setting that feels both cozy and menacing in turn. Xavier makes for a charming and compassionate companion, and the complicated familial relationships feel eminently relatable. A pleasurable page-turner with style and suspense to spare." -- Booklist * 6/1/2024 *

Author Bio

Lisa Maxwell is theNew York Timesbestselling author of the Last Magician series andUnhooked. Shes worked around words all her life and is currently a professor at a local college. She has strong opinions about pasta and a soft spot for loud music and fast cars. When shes not writing books, you can usually find her going on adventures with her husband and two amazing boys. Though she grew up in Akron, Ohio, she now callsnorthern Virginia home. Follow her on Instagram @LisaMaxwellYA or sign up for her newsletter to learn more about her upcoming books atLisa-Maxwell.com.