House of Secrets / Chris Columbus / 490 pages

Film writer, producer and director Chris Columbus (did his parents really name him Chris?) tries his hand along with the help of YA author Ned Vizzini writing an adventure fantasy for young readers.  He gets a book blurb from none other than J K Rowling herself, perhaps because he was the director of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone?  Anyway, three squabbling siblings, age 15, 12 and 8 are thrown into the adventure of their life when their parents purchase the old Kristoff home in San Francisco.  Sharks, pirates, a colossus, a witch, savage warriors and characters who come to life from books written by the mysterious Kristoff are all involved in an action-packed story.  There's plenty of humor, bravery, ingenious solutions, contemporary references, bloody gore, and all the ingredients of a wild and crazy ride.  Seems like there will be a sequel.  Not as good as Harry Potter though....