Mr. Moonbeam and the Halloween Crystal by Ryan Cowan is a delightful, immersive tale for fans of Children's books and YA fantasy. Third-grader Elliot lives in the non-magical world of Wolf’s End. His parents, Greta and Christian, are from the magical world called Moonstone and are now on a secret mission to guard the non-magical world against harm. Under the tutelage of Sloan Moonbeam, his teacher, Elliott begins to understand his powers and a powerful threat to the non-magical world, a threat from Noir, the evil magician who rules the Dark Lands and who is out to steal The Halloween Crystal that will allow him to rule both the magical and the non-magical worlds. As the danger grows stronger, the magicians protecting the world of ordinary people must work together to keep Noir at bay. Time is running out on them and Elliott, who must play a vital role in stopping Noir, must harness his magical skills quickly.

Ryan Cowan has crafted a fantasy tale that fans of Harry Potter and I am Number Four will take down in quick gulps. The characters are elaborately written. The setting is vividly drawn, with strong imagery bringing life to the magical world of Moonstone. The world-building is impeccable, giving readers a wonderful sense of place. The relationship between the young wizard and his teacher is cleverly imagined and intelligently accomplished, marked by insightful moments and the young Elliott's journey of self-discovery and learning. Mr. Moonbeam and the Halloween Crystal offers the perfect escape for fans of fantasy — both young and old. Brace yourself for taut action and fascinating characters, then a world filled with magical creatures in this tale where good pits itself against a powerful evil.