Court of Foxes is a great mystery read for adolescents and adults. The setting is in the Welsh village of Morredin and readers will feel as if they are visiting that country because author Brian Lux does a wonderful job of describing the area in Wales. Legend and magic are brought together to create a very exciting tale.
Mr. Lux tells the readers that Court of Foxes is "based on a true story of Dr. John Harries, a wizard, whose powers were legendary in a small village in Mid-Wales." Visit the National Library of Wales for proof of the photograph that is part of this story. This book could make readers question their own beliefs in wizards and magical happenings.
As a teacher, I often see what happens to students who move in to a new school district. The main character, Bryn, has this experience of moving with his mother from the city out to the village of Morredin to his grandfather's home. Being the "new kid" in town, leaving the city where "all the action is," experiencing language barriers, and the like, are all issues facing this teenager. Then on top of all of the "common" issues, he experiences nightmares, "sees things," and discovers much about the "happenings" of Morredin. People in this village are keeping secrets about many things and Bryn is led to seek out answers. In the end, it is up to Bryn to make decisions that could change the world forever. The theme of good versus evil is a strong part of this book, which is a part of everyone's life in small or big ways. We all can relate to this theme and learning to find courage within ourselves.
Author Brian Lux has created a wonderful book for middle school readers and beyond. He takes U.S. readers on a trip "across the big pond" and even with the sprinkling of the Welsh language within the book, does a masterful job of teaching us within the text. After reading this book, it is obvious why Brian Lux received the Welsh regional winner of the 2006 Undiscovered Authors novel competition. Here's hoping for more novels from this gifted writer.