A first-rate fantasy for middle-grade readers. Like Harry Potter, ... Philip Pullman s His Dark Materials series, ... and Trenton Lee Stewart s Mysterious Benedict Society books. "Booklist," Starred A vivid, compelling fantasy that sends you off to a world you will not soon forget. Norton Juster, author of "The Phantom Tollbooth" How can twelve-year-old Gabriel find his missing father, who seems to have vanished without a trace? With the help of Paladin a young raven with whom he has a magical bond that enables them to become one creature he flies to the foreboding land of Aviopolis, where he must face a series of difficult challenges and unanswerable riddles that could lead to his father... or to his death. "A great read for fantasy lovers who have worn out their copies of "Harry Potter." "School Library Journal," Starred ..".brimful of antic energy and inventive flair, like the best middle-grade fantasies; readers, like baby birds, will devour it and clamor for future installments." "Kirkus Reviews""