This is one of my favorite books ever. It is set in modern day London and gives a whole new spin on wizardry. You will love the djinni young Nathaniel summons; Bartimaeus is full of wit and humor. There are messages about the greed and power-hungry nature of the magicians, which become more pronounced in the second book. An excellent, page-turner, must-read that will keep you awake late into the night!
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The Amulet of Samarkand: The Bartimaeus Trilogy, Book 1
(2004, Fiction - Fantasy, Written by Jonathan Stroud)
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Is it age appropriate?
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Not age appropriate for kids under 8, age appropriate for kids over 9; suggested age 9. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Fantasy series start with an antihero protagonist.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 9 and Up
What to watch out for
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Violence:
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What Parents Need to Know
About The Amulet of Samarkand: The Bartimaeus Trilogy, Book 1
Parents need to know that 12-year-old Nathaniel's personality is unusual in children's fiction. Neither good nor criminal, he's arrogant, vengeful, power-hungry, impulsive, and not at all likable. He's not a sympathetic character, though the reader does root for him to succeed in his quest for vengeance -- but he doesn't learn any lessons.
Read our full review by Matt Berman
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about the use of magic in this series. How does it compare with the use of magic in the Harry Potter series? Families can also talk about the central character, Nathaniel. Do you like the fact that he's an atypical hero?
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