Elementals: Ice Wolves

Gr 4–6—Anders and his twin sister Rayna could not be any different. Rayna is quick and confident. Anders always seems to make mistakes and needs Rayna far more than she needs him. But when the twins must participate in a magical selection ceremony to keep from being discovered as pickpockets, things take a dramatic turn. Ice Wolves and Scorch Dragons are enemies and no family in remembrance has produced one of each, until now. When Rayna turns into a dragon and Anders turns into a wolf, they separate for the first time. Growing in confidence at the Ulfar Academy, Anders and his friend set out to reunite with his sister and discover why the magical artifacts that protect the people of Vallen and help control the powers of ice and fire are failing. This story of magic and mystery is hindered by a slow pace and an unsatisfying resolution. The first of a planned trilogy, the tale begins with a bang and ends with a bit of a whimper. Characters are interesting but not explored to their full potential.