PTOLEMY'S GATE The Bartimaeus Trilogy, Book 3

An alternative London is divided between ruling magicians and oppressed commoners. Nathaniel is an apprentice magician who calls upon the 5000-year-old djinni Bartimaeus for assistance. Bartimaeus suffers Nathaniel's ineptitude with sardonic wit and wisecracks. Simon Jones is outstanding in this final book of the trilogy, expertly handling the sophisticated sarcasm of Jonathan Stroud's imaginative fantasy. Jones deftly takes us to the Other Place, helping listeners understand the djinni's essence. Questions about Bartimaeus's past are answered, and, by the end, Jones has created a worthy heroine in Kitty and a surer, more directed Nathaniel. All comes together in an absolutely satisfying conclusion, but not before chaos threatens everyone and everything. While reading the first two books isn't necessary, it is strongly recommended. S.J.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/ JUL 06]