Published by Scholastic

Summary:  Plum has grown up on her grandparents’ small island farm, so when she unexpectedly gets an invitation to attend Guardian Academy, her life changes dramatically.  The Guardians are an elite group of shapeshifters who keep all the islands safe, and Plum joins the other kids who are trying to pass their first test–learning to transform.  With only a month to prepare, Plum is worried that she isn’t progressing as quickly as her classmates and is tempted when she learns that one of the other girls has found a shortcut to passing the test.  But her love of nature and abilities to communicate with animals and plants serve her well and she moves on with most of her classmates in an adventure to be continued when book 2 comes out in July.  160 pages; grades 3-7.

Pros:  Kids not quite ready for Harry Potter will love this Thai-inspired fantasy about a magical school with some pretty intricate world-building.  The short chapters and illustrations keep things moving along, and readers will be eagerly anticipating Plum’s next adventure.

Cons:  The cover gave me a graphic novel vibe; kids might be surprised to discover that this is a chapter book.