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45 pages 1 hour read

The Alchemyst

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007

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Book Brief

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Michael Scott

The Alchemyst

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

375

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

San Francisco, California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2007

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-17 years

Lexile Level

890L

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Super Short Summary

In The Alchemyst by Michael Scott, 15-year-old twins Sophie and Josh Newman discover the existence of magic and mythical creatures when they encounter Nicholas Flamel, an immortal alchemyst, and his enemy Dr. John Dee. Along with allies like Scathach, they embark on a quest to retrieve a stolen magical book, the Codex, to prevent malevolent Elders from regaining control of Earth.

Fantastical

Adventurous

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.2

166,812 ratings

67%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Michael Scott's The Alchemyst is praised for its imaginative blend of mythology, history, and contemporary fantasy, making it a captivating read for young adults. Reviewers appreciate its fast-paced plot and rich character development. However, some find the writing style simplistic and the pacing uneven. Overall, it is a robust start to an exciting series.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Alchemyst?

Ideal for young adults and fantasy lovers, The Alchemyst by Michael Scott captivates readers interested in magic, mythology, and historical figures. Fans of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson will relish this fast-paced adventure, blending ancient lore with modern settings. Expect an engaging, richly imagined world.

4.2

166,812 ratings

67%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Sophie Newman

A fifteen-year-old girl with a natural inquisitiveness and burgeoning magical abilities, Sophie Newman works in a coffee shop at the story's start alongside her twin brother. She is characterized by her quick thinking and deep trust in her brother, Josh.

The twin brother of Sophie, fifteen-year-old Josh Newman starts out working in a bookstore. He is known for his loyalty and cautious nature, often using logic to complement his inquisitiveness in unraveling the mysteries they encounter.

An ancient and cunning alchemyst pretending to be an ordinary bookshop owner named Nick Fleming. Nicholas Flamel acts as a mentor but is revealed to have deeper, hidden motives guiding his actions.

Nicholas Flamel’s wife known as Perry Fleming, who possesses strong magical abilities, including communicating with the dead. Perenelle is resourceful and supports the protagonists despite being captured by enemies.

A 2,000-year-old warrior who appears youthful and human-like, Scathach, also known as "Scatty," provides protection and instruction to the twins. Her combat prowess and cautious nature serve as key assets throughout the story.

The antagonist and one-time apprentice to Nicholas Flamel, Dr. John Dee is a nefarious alchemyst and magician serving darker forces. His quest for power puts him at odds with Flamel and the twins.

Book Details
Pages

375

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

San Francisco, California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2007

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-17 years

Lexile Level

890L

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