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• A Promise to Keep by Ann Durand
• Flight of the Gryphon
• The Gold Coin

Description

Children entertain a natural thirst for recognition and dream of their own heroism. Tato captures their imaginations by recognizing a child’s craving to exercise power and earn the admiration of the adults closest to him or her. Young readers will stay glued to this enchanting tale of a young boy struggling to reconcile the passing of his grandfather and best friend. Set in scenic Mt. Shasta, California, Michael’s trouble begins when his grandfather, Gankum, dies. Rebuffed by his family when he insists that Gankum still lives, he confides to his grandfather’s spirit that he wants someone new to love him. When he learns the secrets for creating a baby brother by soaking a potato in a magic formula, he jumps at the chance. He botches the formula, however, and instead of a brother, two bizarre creatures are spawned: One, soulless and desperate, kidnaps Michael’s parents. The other, Tato, part human, part potato yet irrepressibly warm and affectionate, accompanies Michael and Nicole in their quest to find and free their parents. Danger and treachery greet them every step of the way. Michael is nearly foiled when a giant spider snatches Nicole, and he faces the daunting task of battling the beast alone. His darkest moment arrives when he must accept his grandfather’s death in order to free his family. The spirit of his grandfather answers his call for help, and Michael is finally able to reconcile the old man’s passing. He succeeds in undoing the spell and bringing his family home.

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