The Griffin’s Boy

As someone who is as fascinated by her kingdom’s menagerie as she is bored of her dreary genealogy lessons, Princess Alyssandra of Aralorn is excited by the arrival of a five-month-old griffin. To her surprise, the griffin, Tam, is accompanied by stowaway Devin, former assistant to a cruel animal trader. Lyss quickly befriends both newcomers and works to prevent Devin’s discovery. Then they learn that someone’s stealing creatures from the menagerie. The trio embark on an intrepid investigation, but despite sniffing out the most likely culprit, Lyss’s father refuses to believe her findings, prompting Lyss, Devin, and Tam to pursue justice themselves. Thomson (Two Friends, One Dog, and a Very Unusual Week) focuses on newfound connection, magic, and suspense to conjure a fast-paced, heartwarming mystery. Thomson’s world is populated by resourceful protagonists, fanciful creatures, and quirky supporting characters, including a memorable librarian’s apprentice, all of whom are brought to life via softly stylized, lightly comedic illustrations by Català (Sam Can’t Sleep). Devin has “fair” skin and is described as “several shades paler” than Lyss. Ages 8–12. (Mar.)