Title of book: Candy shop war: arcade catastropheauthor(s): Brandon MullWho is the intended audience of this book: kids and teensWhat is the main issue or problem the book addresses: another wizard who is the brother to the wizard they previously defeated, but this time he has come for something even more valuable than the fountain of youth.Setting: Colson and surrounding areasDescription of Main Characters: Summer: a regular girl who is a member of the blue falcons. Trevor: almost the same story as summer and also a member of the blue falcons. Pigeon: the shy one in the blue falcons group, mainly runs from situations but since the first book he has become much braver. Nate: A boy who was new in the neighborhood in the first book, but helped save the world from Mrs. White in the first book from obtaining power from the fountain of youth. Lindy: a seemingly normal girl, who she doesn't even know herself that she was the villain in the first book because her memory was wiped when she drank from the fountain of youth. Mr. White: Mrs. Whites brother and a very mysterious character, he also has no idea, just like herself, that Lindy is Mrs. White.Story Summary: after the epidemic with Mrs. White This was slightly different from the first book given it had new characters introduced and a new setting but it wasn’t all that new. Having said that, it was still enjoyable. Brandon Mull’s books are interesting, inventive, and always clean. I appreciate that because I can refer them to my kids knowing they are appropriate for their age. In my opinion the Candy shop War series is nowhere near the same level as Fablehaven which is why it is hard for me to rate these any higher.Of course there were handfuls of new magical candy and handstamps which granted magically enhanced abilities like running fast, gaining strength, and flying. I would like to try the Peak Performance gum and the Camouflage Caramels myself. The Bestial Biscuits were cool too.I was glad to see Lindy added to the cast to mix things up. (SPOILER from first book) It puts an interesting spin on things considering she was the villain in the first story. I wanted her to find out about her former identity earlier on though. Her magical eye is impressive. Jonas was an intriguing mystery man. I was disappointed in the lack of details concerning him getting what he had coming to him-where was the showdown between him and Mozag? Mozag was also a welcome addition but I thought he was wasted. The story built him up as a mage and yet it rarely showcased any of his powers. I liked the “Ah-Ha” moment when the curious revelation about Jonas’s identity was given. The Hermit was interesting and I wished for more scenes with him too. Ziggy and Victor were entertaining as an obscure duo. I appreciate the creativity behind their unique connection.This was left open-ended for a possible third book which I look forward to. What other trouble can the gang get involved with I wonder? The themes I felt were throughout the read were: teamwork, doing the right thing, and not letting our mistakes or who we were in the past affect who we want to become. This was a “treat” to read.
What do You think about Arcade Catastrophe (2012)?
It took your imagination through the book as if you were Nate.
—wozzergb
I liked this book because it was full of MYSTERIES.
—nicoya2410
