WIND TAMER
by P. R. Morrison
Bloomsbury USA Children's Books
Hardcover: 1582347816
Paperback: 9781599901473
Ages 8-12
336 pages

Archie Stringweed's life has been relatively uneventful for as long as he can remember. He lives with his parents, Jeffrey and Cecille, in a three-story house called Windy Edge in a small village near the coast of Scotland. Then, on the morning of his 10th birthday, he receives a mysterious parcel from his eccentric godfather Uncle Rufus, who his family hasn't seen in nine years and doesn't talk about much.

For as long as he can remember, Archie would be sent a present by his uncle but wouldn't be allowed to open it because his overprotective mum claimed it was probably dangerous. Now that he's turning 10, Archie is sure he will have the right to open his uncle's present. The latest birthday gift is a gold coin --- the only thing that appears to be strange about it is its engravings.

Archie knows that there's more to the story behind his parents' odd behavior and is determined to uncover the truth. However, before he can do so, he is visited by a large bird with bright green eyes while his friends, Sid and George, are there to help celebrate his birthday. The three boys don't know what to think and decide to keep the incident a secret for now. Then things begin to get even stranger when Uncle Rufus arrives on the family's doorstep late that night.

Uncle Rufus is an interesting character who seems to have traveled all around the world. Cecille doesn't seem pleased about the new houseguest, while Jeffrey can't believe he's seeing his brother again after nearly a decade. Uncle Rufus tells Archie something rather surprising that could explain the recent bizarre events that have been occurring: there is an ancient family curse and it's up to Archie to stop it once and for all before it's too late.

With plenty of mystery and adventure and some rather humorous moments, WIND TAMER is an exciting debut from P. R. Morrison that promises to delight readers of all ages.

   --- Reviewed by Sarah Sawtelle (SdarksideG@aol.com)

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