RAYLEIGH MANN AND THE QUEST OF MISFITS

The magical adventures of 12-year-old Black British boy Rayleigh Mann pick up immediately following the 2023 series opener.

Rayleigh is settling into the mystical realm of creatures that haunt the dreams of children. ’Tis the Christmas season in Above-London, and Yule in Below-London, where Rayleigh lives under the watchful eyes of his uncle Thelonious and father, Bogey, the Supreme Scarer. The two men agree that Rayleigh must remain safely at home in monster-proof Terror Tower until they’ve hunted down the impostor, or mysterious shape-shifter, that’s after him. Plenty of danger and discovery await in this fantastical coming-of-age (or rather, becoming-a-monster) tale that will keep readers wondering, just like Rayleigh, who can be trusted. Smart portrays Rayleigh’s adjustment to an underground London where nightmarish adventures lurk around every corner. His friends include furry, fox-faced Marley and invisible monsterling Mack; the three attend flying lessons together. The awkwardness of learning to fly and the growing pains that hint at what type of monster each will develop into are intriguing and will keep the pages turning. Readers will revel in the variety of familiar monsters (both friend and foe) and enjoy watching Rayleigh learn and grow as he’s being chased by the impostor’s minions and fights to save friends, family, and himself while using his special abilities.

A page-turner that will draw fans into another exciting quest.