The Alchemyst by Michael Scott

The Alchemyst by Michael Scott is about twins Sophie and Josh. Josh has been working for Nick Fleming, aka Nicholas Flamel, in his book shop. Nicholas's true identity is revealed when Dr. John Dee comes into the shop and tries to steal the Codex, an ancient and mysterious book that Nicholas has been guarding for the last 600 years. Josh and Sophie accidentally get involved in the fight and end up fleeing with Nicholas. In the mean time, Dee kidnaps Nicholas's wife, Perenelle and enlists the help of some of the Dark Elders, Egypt's Bastet (the cat goddess) and the Morrigan (the crow goddess). Nicholas and the twins pick up Scatty, an ancient warrior in a teenaged body, and head to Hekates Shadowrealm. Nicholas knows a secret about an omen within the Codex and believes that the twins will eventually save the world. He also knows that in order to do this, they need to have their powers awoken. Hekate is one of the Elders who has this power. Unfortunately, she is only able to awaken Sophie's powers before Dee, the Morrigan, and Bastet show up with an army of enchanted cats and crows!

This is the first book in a new series by Michael Scott and I absolutely loved it! There is so much legend, myth, and folklore within this book - it is amazing. Michael Scott offers easy explanations for many of the common stories, creatures, and people within. The stories of Nicholas and Perry Flamel and John Dee within the story were taken from the factual information that exists about these real people! This was an excellent blend of fiction, fact, and legend. I will definitely read the rest of the books in this series!