If you're trying to compete with the dopamine hit of a smartphone, this series is one of your best weapons. It’s fast-paced, imaginative, and doesn't treat kids like they're stupid.

Brandon Mull knows exactly how to hook a reader by the end of chapter one. While the 'slavery' premise sounds heavy, it's really just the setup for a massive rescue mission. It’s high-quality 'brain candy' that actually leaves them with some solid thoughts on loyalty and perseverance.