The Crystal — Edward Carl

Before this Natty's biggest concerns were figuring out what to write for his 10th grade English assignment, figuring out how to get the girl next door to like him as more than just a friend, and dealing with the constant tormenting of the school bully. But that was before. Now, after apparently falling through a mirror, Natty is trapped in a deep, dark, damp place where he can't see a thing. But he can hear the too-close sounds of teeth-gnashing, growling and scratching creatures that seem to be intent on getting at him. Is this some strange dream, or is Natty in some strange, new place. Follow Nathaniel Albert Shortfellow, II â€" ‘Natty' to his friends and ‘Nasto, The Savior' to everyone in this new world â€" as he discovers his true heritage and destiny. After delivering his grandfather's crystal to The Temple Village, Natty must travel to Skull Mountain in order to take the crystal from The Land before The Great Darkness can possess it. Joining him on his journey across The Land are: two Guiders, sworn to protect him; a princess; a giant; and the leader of the Yoelivans, a mysterious group of solitary warriors committed to battling The Great Darkness' Senolives and other evil creatures.