Sceptre of The Ancients – book 1 in the Skulduggery Pleasant series (originally published under name Skulduggery Pleasant, book 1 was later reissued in US with a new name).
Meet Skulduggery Pleasant – Ace Detective, Snappy Dresser, Razor-tongued Wit, Crackerjack Sorcerer and Walking, Talking, Fire-throwing Skeleton–as well as ally, protector, and mentor of Stephanie Edgley, a very unusual and darkly talented twelve-year-old. These two alone must defeat an all-consuming ancient evil.The end of the world? Over his dead body.
Reviews
“'Skulduggery Pleasant serves up a thoroughly satisfying blend of humour, magic and adventure. Once you've met Stephanie and Skullduggery, you'll be clamouring for a sequel.” Rick Riordan
"It's exciting, pacy, nicely handled and fun. I sincerely hope Landy revisits these characters.‘ Philip Ardagh, Guardian ’
“A fun and quirky mix of magic, mystery, and lost of humor.” – Locus
“An utterly charming debut, perfect for the Potter crowd.” – Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“Skulduggery Pleasant lives up to his name, performing amazing feats with such self-effacing drollness that readers will wish they had a similar skeletal friend. Give this one to fans of Eoin Colfer's "Artemis Fowl” books (Hyperion) or to anyone who likes a dash of violence and danger served up with the magic." School Library Journal
“A distinctly Horowitzian humor and verve.” – London Times
“Landy's witty style will win him fans of all ages… With writing of this standard, a rattling plot and definite potential for cross-over appeal, it's a good job Harry's [Potter] resigning before he's forcibly retired.” Irish Mail on Sunday
“Landy keeps the action brisk, his characters slightly macabre, and uses humor to take the edge off.” – ALA Booklist
“This book is a delight. Full of character, black humor, and great fun.” – Daily Telegraph (London)
Author Biography
Derek Landy lives near Dublin. Before writing his children's story about a sharply-dressed skeleton detective, he wrote the screenplays for a zombie movie and a murderous horror film. “I think my career-guidance teacher is spinning in her grave,” he says, “or she would be if she were dead.”