The Fire Chronicle / John Stephens / 437 pages

This is the second book in the Books of Beginning series in which three children must recover 3 books created centuries ago by wizards.  In the first book, The Emerald Atlas, older sister Kate finds the book that controls time.  In this book almost 13 year old Michael finds the Fire Chronicle which controls life.  Exciting, well-developed characters, many elves, dwarfs, trolls and wizards and bravery, compassion, love and wit help the children to succeed in their quest.  Lots of action and cliff-hanging suspense keeps the reader turning the pages.  Recommended for middle grade readers.