Jax Freeman and the Phantom Shriek [Jax Freeman]
by Kwame Mbalia
Intermediate    Freedom Fire/Disney-Hyperion    480 pp.
10/24    9781368064736    $17.99
e-book ed.  978136864798    $10.99

After his alleged participation in a brawl, twelve-year-old Jackson Freeman is sent to Chicago to live with an uncle and grandmother he barely knows. Awkward and shy, Jax expects to confront the typical woes of sixth-grade life: new school, classmates, routines. However, these ordinary challenges are soon overshadowed by the discovery of a magical world where families summon powers through their ancestors. Enrolled in a special class for the children of summoning families, Jax learns of his magical legacy, an inheritance that reveals unique talents and historical mistakes. As he navigates this new world, Jax makes allies and confronts powerful adversaries, all while attempting to balance his magical training with the challenges of everyday life. Each conflict tests his understanding of loyalty, courage, family, and friendship, culminating in a task that will transform his and his friends’ lives forever. Filled with adventure, heart, and a touch of humor, Mbalia’s (Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky, rev. 7/20, and sequels) novel is a well-crafted speculative tale that captures the complexity of family and friendship bonds and the difficulty of finding and accepting one’s true self. The fast-paced plot and Jax’s memorable, conversational voice will keep readers engaged. This compelling narrative offers a thoughtful exploration of identity, heritage, and ancestral connection.

From the ">September/October 2024 issue of The Horn Book Magazine.