FICTION

Ares and the Spear of Fear

HOLUB, Joan & . illus. by Craig Phillips. 112p. (Heroes in Training: Bk. 7). S. & S./Aladdin. 2014. pap. $5.99. ISBN 9781442488489.
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Gr 2–4—The god of war marches forth in this latest installment of the series about the Olympians (portrayed here as children) and their attempts to escape their vengeful father, Cronus. This time, Ares takes the spotlight as he attempts to rightfully reclaim the spear of fear, a powerful weapon that fell into the wrong hands. This is an irreverent series (which SLJ previously called "a fun read…[for] those still too young for Percy Jackson's adventure"), brimming with action, relatable characters, and hilarious kid-friendly dialogue.
The adventures continue for the young Olympians, who are battling King Cronus and the Titans to fulfill their destinies. Here, Zeus and company encounter some Amazons, confront an oracle-eating python, and add another Olympian to their group. This seventh installment maintains the series' lighthearted humor and lively pacing; occasional black-and-white drawings contribute a classical tone.

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