Reviews3Q 4P M The third book in the Kane Chronicles series, The Serpent's Shadow opens with a sense of intrigue. An unnamed narrator claims to be transcribing audio recordings left behind by siblings, Carter and Sadie Cane. A mysterious introduction draws readers in right away-the narrator claims, "The tape arrived at my home in a charred box perforated with claw and teeth marks that my local zoologist could not identify." What adventure-loving teen could fail to be drawn in with such a start? As the story progresses, the siblings continue their study of ancient Egyptian writings and spells, both of which frequently come in handy as they fight against the wrath of evil gods and solicit the help of a few friendly ones. The fast pace and time travel will appeal to readers who like adventure reads. Not only does Riordan keep the plot moving along through 400 pages, he does a good job of balancing the story for new readers and fans of the series. There is enough backstory to keep first-time Riordan readers informed, but not so much that this tale gets bogged down. A solid adventure read, The Serpent's Shadow will have additional appeal to teens who are interested in Egyptian mythology.-Anna Foote.-- VOYA
Grade FromFifth Grade
Grade ToNinth Grade
SynopsisHe's b-a-a-ack Despite their best efforts, Carter and Sadie Kane can't seem to keep Apophis, the chaos snake, down. Now Apophis is threatening to plunge the world into eternal darkness, and the Kanes are faced with the impossible task of having to destroy him once and for all. Unfortunately, the magicians of the House of Life are on the brink of civil war, the gods are divided, and the young initiates of Brooklyn House stand almost alone against the forces of chaos. The Kanes' only hope is an ancient spell that might turn the serpent's own shadow into a weapon, but the magic has been lost for a millennia. To find the answer they need, the Kanes must rely on the murderous ghost of a powerful magician who might be able to lead them to the serpent's shadow . . . or might lead them to their deaths in the depths of the underworld. Nothing less than the mortal world is at stake when the Kane family fulfills its destiny in this thrilling conclusion to the Kane Chronicles., In their exciting final adventure, Carter and Sadie Kane are the mortal world's only hope of defeating the forces of chaos. "Fans of the Riordan magic--equal parts danger, myth, and irreverence--will embrace this new series with open arms."-- The Horn Book #1 New York Time s best-seller Rick Riordan, a master at making mythology fun and relevant, takes on ancient Egypt Told in two points of view, one male and one female Combines witty, relatable heroes, gods and monsters, prophecies and curses, and non-stop action Ideal for middle grade readers, but older readers will enjoy it, too Soon to be adapted into a movie for Netflix, with Rick attached as producer He's b-a-a-ack! Despite their best efforts, Carter and Sadie Kane can't seem to keep Apophis, the chaos snake, down. Now Apophis is threatening to plunge the world into eternal darkness, and the Kanes are faced with the impossible task of having to destroy him once and for all. Unfortunately, the magicians of the House of Life are on the brink of civil war, the gods are divided, and the young initiates of Brooklyn House stand almost alone against the forces of chaos. The Kanes' only hope is an ancient spell that might turn the serpent's own shadow into a weapon, but the magic has been lost for a millennia. To find the answer they need, the Kanes must rely on the murderous ghost of a powerful magician who might be able to lead them to the serpent's shadow . . . or might lead them to their deaths in the depths of the underworld. Nothing less than the mortal world is at stake when the Kane family fulfills its destiny in this thrilling conclusion to the Kane Chronicles., In their exciting final adventure, Carter and Sadie Kane are the mortal world's only hope of defeating the forces of chaos. "Fans of the Riordan magic--equal parts danger, myth, and irreverence--will embrace this new series with open arms."-- The Horn Book #1 New York Time s best-seller Rick Riordan, a master at making mythology fun and relevant, takes on ancient Egypt Told in two points of view, one male and one female Combines witty, relatable heroes, gods and monsters, prophecies and curses, and non-stop action Ideal for middle grade readers, but older readers will enjoy it, too Soon to be adapted into a movie for Netflix, with Rick attached as producer He's b-a-a-ack Despite their best efforts, Carter and Sadie Kane can't seem to keep Apophis, the chaos snake, down. Now Apophis is threatening to plunge the world into eternal darkness, and the Kanes are faced with the impossible task of having to destroy him once and for all. Unfortunately, the magicians of the House of Life are on the brink of civil war, the gods are divided, and the young initiates of Brooklyn House stand almost alone against the forces of chaos. The Kanes' only hope is an ancient spell that might turn the serpent's own shadow into a weapon, but the magic has been lost for a millennia. To find the answer they need, the Kanes must rely on the murderous ghost of a powerful magician who might be able to lead them to the serpent's shadow . . . or might lead them to their deaths in the depths of the underworld.Nothing less than the mortal world is at stake when the Kane family fulfills its destiny in this thrilling conclusion to the Kane Chronicles.