The Real Boy

Set in a fantasy world called Aletheia, this is the story of a boy, who is a social misfit, and who works as the "hand" (i.e. lowest servant) of a magician named Caleb.  Oscar lives in the basement of Caleb's shop, and spends his days making potions, charms, and tinctures for Caleb to sell.  Then Oscar's world turns upside down when Caleb leaves on an extended trip, his apprentice is mysteriously killed, and Oscar is left in charge.  A healer's apprentice, Callie, helps him learn social manners and behavior, and together they must tackle a large mystery concerning why the magic (that everyone depends on) is suddenly doing bad things to people.  Written by Anne Ursu, with illustrations by Erin McGuire; junior high and strong upper elementary readers will be drawn into this fantasy world where everything depends on the magic.