Wizardology: The Book of the Secrets of Merlin by Master Merlin, Dugald Steer (Editor), Dugald A. Steer (Editor), John Howe (Illustrator), Helen Ward (Illustrator)

From the Publisher

Aspiring wizards can tune in to the age-old wisdom of Merlin with this dazzling compendium of all things magical — unveiling novelty elements throughout.


For any apprentice determined to learn the arcane arts of wizardry, could there be a better teacher than . . . Merlin himself? Originally discovered in 1588, this remarkable text by history's most respected wizard is revealed to the world for the very first time. Lavishly illustrated by four delicate artists, WIZARDOLOGY's intricate design even conceals a series of hidden symbols that spell out a secret message when their code is deciphered — if the reader is clever enough to find them.

Among WIZARDOLOGY's special features are:

-a glittering crystal ball-like jewel on the front cover
- a world map showing locations of wizards around the globe
- tactile samples of a "fairy flag" with one wish remaining and a phoenix feather to aid in flying charms
- booklets explaining the proper use of spells, familiars, and potions
- a removable dragon pendant allowing the user to dowse for mythical beasts
- a pack of eight removable fortune-tellling cards
- a 48-page mini book of divination on the final spread

Publishers Weekly

Not just the sales of Dragonology and Egyptology, but also the actual content of Wizardology: The Book of the Serets of Merlin is magic. This third book, from the team of Dugald A. Steer, Anne Yvonne Gilbert, John Howe, Tomislav Tomie and Helen Ward, follows the same format, with a letter on the inside cover in which Merlin himself challenges readers to become his apprentice and learn his "concealed secrets." Tabs to pull, directions on how to make a wand, a miniature bound-in spell book, a pack of cards with which to predict a person's future and much, much more, are all contained in an attractive faux-leather volume with facsimile parchment pages. Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.

Mary Quattlebaum - Children's Literature

Templar Company, the makers of the best-selling Dragonology, are back, this time with Wizardology. Purportedly written by Merlin (of the Arthurian legends), this well-research volume ranges across countries and time to gather the history and trade secrets of wizards. Bearing the look of a richly illustrated, early-renaissance scholarly scrapbook, Wizardology includes all manner of maps, diagrams and lists of magical creatures. It harbors numerous interactive pockets. When investigated, they yield future-telling cards, spell-casting graphs, tiny books of legends—even a phoenix feather. Sure to appeal to fantasy buffs and lovers of legend and lore. The prediction from my crystal ball? This one will fly off the shelves. 2005, Candlewick, Ages 8 up.

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