‘Slathbog’s Gold’ an imaginative adventure

Almost all readers recognize the magic that resides behind the doors of every bookstore. But for 15-year-old orphan Alex Taylor, it’s a simple sign in a bookstore window that will introduce him to a supernatural world:

"Adventurers wanted. Apply within."

Curious, Alex enters Mr. Clutter's shop and in a flash finds himself answering questions for an adventure application.

“Do you believe in brownies, dragons, dwarfs, elves, fairies, ghosts, goblins, griffins, pixies ... sea serpents, skin changers, trolls, werewolves, and wraiths?” Mr. Clutter took a deep breath and looked at Alex.
“Well,” said Alex, feeling uncomfortable. “I—”
“We’ll just put yes on that one, shall we?” Mr. Clutter interrupted.

Mr. Clutter continues to pepper Alex with questions, using his own answers when Alex hesitates. With the application finished, Alex suddenly finds himself interviewing for a position. Next thing he knows, he has joined a band of adventurers about to embark on a quest to slay the dragon Slathbog and claim his treasure.

At first the idea that magic exists mystifies Alex — not to mention that his traveling companions include elves and dwarfs. But during his journey Alex grows to accept the unexplained and trust in his new friends.

M.L. Forman’s “Slathbog’s Gold” is the first in the Adventurers Wanted young adult series, and though Forman doesn’t break new ground, the novel will capture the imaginations of young readers.

As Alex battles trolls and wraiths, he learns much about himself. The teen undoubtedly discovers his courage, but he also learns the value of loyalty and honor, risk and reward. Perhaps most important for Alex, he learns of his destiny and what he must do to stay true to himself and his new path of self-discovery.

By the end of “Slathbog’s Gold,” Alex and his friends have indeed been on a journey, but for the budding adventurer, and the reader, this adventure has just begun.