Genie on the Loose

This belated sequel to The Third Class Genie stands very well on its own, exhibiting the same winning characteristics of good humour, magical chaos and pacey excitement as its forerunner. This time the fated Alec conjures up the wayward genie son of Abu Salem, who succeeds in acquiring a local reputation as 'The Black Panter' and amongst and the odd good turn also wreaks havoc, which it is usually left to Alec to smoothe over and sort out, capably assisted by his black friends Ginger and Eulalia. These two are at the centre of the racial nastiness which underpins the riotous goings-on and gives the book another dimension, along with its N.F.-orientated villain, Gary Barker. Its short chapters and briskness should push less confident readers through easily, so it is well recommended through upper juniors and lower secondary.