Magic Below Stairs by Caroline Stervermer

Stevermer, Caroline. Magic Below Stairs, 208 pgs. Dial Books, 2010. $16.99. Sexual Content-G; Language-G; Violence-G. Frederick was always lucky. Growing up in an orphanage, whenever he was punished he managed to complete the tasks magically. The butler for Lord Schofield comes to the orphanage looking for a new footboy and wants whoever will fit the suit of clothes—Frederick fits the suit perfectly. Frederick learns that his new master is a wizard and finds out that his luck was actually thanks to a hobgoblin named Billy Bly. Lord Schofield and his pregnant wife plan to retire to one of their houses in the country that has been recently cleared of curses. Frederick arrives with the other servants before the family and with the help of Billy Bly finds the remnants of a curse. Can he help protect his master’s family from this lingering curse? Fans of the Sorcery and Cecelia; Or, the Enchanted Chocolate Pot and sequels may enjoy seeing the Mysterious Marquis and his wife Kate again, however, this book is targeted to a younger audience and their roles are quite minor. Children who enjoyed Sara Prineas’ Magic Thief serieswill take to this new tale of a young boy of humble circumstances whose life changes by magic. EL – ADVISABLE. Samantha, Public Librarian.