The World Between
Belva Rae Staples
Tate Publishing, Mar 27 2012, $22.99

http://www.tatepublishing.com

ISBN: 9781617779633

Georgie O’Dell was eight years old when his elderly neighbor Miss MacAlpin began to tell him the tale of evil Alex Edgecomb, a boy with a dark soul. Instead of paling with his friends, Georgie is hooked on the story and visits next door frequently to hear more.

Young Alex hated everyone including his family but especially his sister. The wicked Alex tries to overthrow the kingdom of Kriterion. However, to Georgie’s delight, Alex’s coup d’état fails. Unremorseful Alex awaits punishment for his murders of other children and additional atrocities. Georgie soon learns a stunning truth about his hostess; who has asked him to one day write her fable.

The first Kriterion Saga (see the sequel: Tide Walker) is a superb morality fantasy as the villain’s amoral actions impact his family, neighbors and the kingdom. The entertaining metafiction storyline will remind readers of Michael Ende’s Neverending Story; as Georgie learns that if he does not change his attitude and behavior towards others like his brother, he will be the next Alex. Fans will enjoy journeying with Georgie to The World Between.

Harriet Klausner