The Spiderwick Chronicles is back with a wicked adventure that goes far “Beyond” the original series. Check out Kidzworld’s review of The Nixie’s Song and A Giant Problem.
Authors: Holly Black and Tony DiTerlizzi
Venture “Beyond the Spiderwick Chronicles” to Florida where Nick Vargas lives with his dad, stepmom and faerie-loving stepsister Laurie. Unlike Laurie, Nick is a realist. He believes that magical creatures like pixies and giants can only be found in storybooks. Boy, is he in for a big surprise.
The Nixie’s Song
When Laurie and her mother move into Nick’s house, she brings along Arthur Spiderwick’s Field Guide to the Fantastical World Around You. Nick thinks the book is all just make believe. That is, until he finds a four-leaf clover, an object that gives him “the Sight.” Now Nick can see things he’s never even dreamed of, including a water nixie that desperately needs his and Laurie’s help.The Bottom Line
Compared to the original Spiderwick Chronicles, this book falls short. It doesn’t have the same magic and intensity as the previous series. And it doesn’t help that the main character, Nick, is always grumpy and skeptical. However, the story line is decent enough, and it holds promise for future books. So don’t be discouraged, and don’t give up on Spiderwick just yet!
The Nixie's Song Rating: 
A Giant Problem
Giants are stirring in Nick and Laurie’s neighborhood. The trouble is, only they can see them! The kids learn the art of giant slaying from an old, blind man named Noseeum Jack. But before the Nick and Laurie can put their training into action, the giants begin fighting, destroying the kids’ neighborhood in the process. Nick and Laurie seek help from the mermaids, hoping that their song will lure the giants into the ocean and out of harm’s way.
The Bottom Line
A Giant Problem is a terrific adventure. It brings back the magical, climactic feeling of the original Spiderwick Chronicles, something that The Nixie’s Song definitely lacks. Once you read this, you’ll be itching to get your hands on the third book in the series, The Wyrm King, released on September 8, 2009!
A Giant Problem Rating:
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