Have I ever read a book about the Pied Piper? I have not!

Have you?

No matter your answer, Avione Lee‘s Pied is the perfect glimpse into the world of Pipers. Great pace, likable (and despicable) characters, a fun plot with perfectly-placed tension, and chapter endings that will beg you to keep reading.

A debut novel, being compared to Harry Potter… well done, Ms. Lee!

The story revolves around a boy finding his way out a box he never belonged in; devoid of color, without music, and completely ignorant to a magic he possesses.

Once the door is opened, Rim learns he is a piper and steps into a whole new world with enemies and danger lurking on every corner. With the help of an unlikely mentor and new friends, he learns he can be so much more than he ever imagined.

Rim and his friends compete for entrance into the Etude Association, a prestigious organization that will gain them protection from an evil magic that is stealing piper kids. But the competition is rigged.

Not only does Rim need to navigate the crooked competition, he also must avoid the Hedges who are on the hunt for him to sell his body parts.

Piranhas, spiders, talking sculptures, magic, self-doubt, a risky scavenger hunt, silver-eyed werewolves, mean kids, deep secrets, a shady old pied piper, an eccentric grandmother, attacking ravens, and an ending that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

And one of my favorite parts: Ms. Biddlecombe, the chaperone. I think she must be Effie Trinket’s sister :).

LIFE’S TOO SHORT TO READ BORING BOOKS. Pied will not disappoint.