Doctor Illuminatus by Martin Booth
01/10/2003 . Source: Sue Davies 

pub: Puffin. 175 page paperback. Price: £ 4.99 (UK). ISBN 0-14-131037-5.

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When Pip and her brother Tim move into a house with a history they don't expect the history to come to meet them.
Sebastian says he is the son of the builder of the house but that would make him nearly 600 years old.

Can they believe him and if so how can they help him fight against the great evil that is coming to their village? It seems that Sebastian's father was an alchemist that made a powerful enemy.

This story is for children ages 10+. Although a fairly short book it packs a lot of information into its 175 pages, racing along to its conclusion. It uses some history and adds some carefully constructed 'facts' to entice and ensnare the reader into Sebastian's world.

It also shares some neat ideas about the nature of time and hypnotism. There are some scary sequences including the appearance of zombies but the world, as we know it, survives.

If, like me, you enjoy the whirlwind ride you'll be pleased to learn there will be a sequel in time for next year's school holidays.

Sue Davies