December 2, 2013
Twelve-year-old Jackson is accepted into a program at the Sentia Institute after an encounter with a stage hypnotistâand because he's actually the descendent of powerful hypnotists. At the institute, Jackson begins honing his skills, but soon realizes that hypnotism will be the key to his survival. Korman's novel is simply yet vividly narrated by Ramon de Ocampo in a subtle performance that allows the author's material to shine. de Ocampo's subtle shifts in tone give the characters original and unique voices. As Jackson, de Ocampo is an easygoing yet determined young man with an incredible gift, and when it comes time to use that gift, de Ocampo's delivery is pitch-perfect. Ages 8â12. A Scholastic hardcover.
Starred review from December 1, 2013
Gr 5-8-In this funny, fast-paced tale of supernatural suspense, Jackson "Jax" Opus never thought too much about his color-changing eyes until strange things began happening to people who looked into them. After a series of wacky mishaps, Jax discovers that he's descended from the two strongest hypnotic bloodlines and that the powerful gift he has inherited could put all those he cares about in danger. Before he discovered his gift, Jax was just a normal teenager dealing with problems related to friends, school, and girls, but his ability draws the attention of many people, including Dr. Elias Mako, the head of an institute that promises to help the boy learn to control his powers-for a dangerous price. Korman has created a very believable hero. Any reader who has ever felt different will identify with Jax's struggle to be "normal" while still doing the right thing. Ramon D'Ocampo's well-modulated, youthful voice is a perfect fit for Korman's story (Scholastic, 2013). He easily keeps up vocally with the nonstop action, but never goes too rapidly, and his decision not to do a fully voiced narration was absolutely correct. Listeners will eagerly anticipate the next installment in Jax's adventures.-Shari Fesko, Southfield Public Librry, MI
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