Across the Line — C.J. Milbrandt

Across the Line: A Ganix Johns Adventure �" Ganix Johns doesn't think he needs a constant companion, but then he meets someone who needs him. Hurlock is a magician with chains on his ankles, and his wife Galena is about to be sold. Ganix schemes to set them free.

WELCOME TO LIBERTY. Big cities and hill-country outposts thrive on busy byways, but people are scarce in the Wilds, where mythical creatures are alive and well. Folks commonly use lanterns to light their homes, and peace is kept by Rangers on horseback. In the Byways books, readers will encounter dragons, griffins, river monsters, and rogue magicians.

Magic is a rare trait that runs in families. Some magical gifts are quite useful; others are downright quirky. Like the talent inherited by members of the Johns family. They're Changers who can take the form of an animal. Not that magic will make winning the race any easier for Ewan, Zane, and Ganix.

LEARNING MADE FUN. The Byways books take readers on a cross-country road trip through a fantasy landscape. But the series isn't just a story. This is one long game, and you can play. Hide and seek! Search and find! Each Byways book is tied to one of the USA's fifty states. Details are “hidden” within the story. Book 7 covers “The Old Line State,” Maryland.

The Byways books are geared for young readers who are ready for their first chapter books (K-2). Cover art and illustrations by Hannah Christenson. Look for upcoming titles, cast pictures, teacher resources, waypoint log, and a special hometown challenge at CJMilbrandt.com.