BONNIE BAILEY AND THE FAIRE OF WORLDS

Some adventures know no bounds.

Thirteen-year-old Bonnie Bailey has problems. The award-winning Beeline Apiary, which women in her family have run for generations, isn’t profitable enough, and her single mother announces that, after getting into debt and being hounded by developers, she’s selling their land. Bonnie, who’s fuming over this news, is approached by Abeo, the mysterious manager of the Faire of Worlds, a magical camp of entertainment and wonders. Bonnie initially refuses Abeo’s offer of a role as assistant bee charmer, which would mean leaving home without telling her mother to travel with the Faire. But earning enough money to save the apiary persuades her to join them until the end-of-season election to choose Abeo’s replacement. The contenders include Alpha, a gruff, authoritarian bee charmer from “home world” #2,501, who plans to fleece unsuspecting victims if he’s elected. Bonnie also experiences a few pangs of romance, thanks to Jack, a cowboylike rustler, who’s also from another world. This light, fast-paced story is amusing, although readers seeking more depth might be frustrated by the quick resolutions. Like cotton candy at a fair, the story provides thrills and a little dazzle, lightening the themes of financial insecurity and threats to bees. The cast of characters largely presents white.

Action-packed fun.