As a caseworker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, Linus Baker’s reports are impeccable; nothing but clinical observations about the state of the government-run homes where “gifted” children reside. This is why Extremely Upper Management increases his security clearance to Level Four. There is an orphanage set on a remote island populated with children unfit for society, and Linus is well-suited to report back on the fitness of the home.

Linus arrives on the island expecting to find problem children. He never dreamt he’d meet a gnome, wyvern, shape-shifter, sprite, and slime creature; the son of Satan; or a man who would color his world forever. Are these beings just little kids, or threats to mankind and themselves, or both? And are these monsters any worse than the mainland people, or the demons inside Linus?

You can guess what happens from the first page. But if you’re looking to spend some time with some funny, lovable characters, that’s OK. It’s a good choice for young adults who want to check books out from the adult section. It’s a good choice for anyone looking for a book with unusual and endearing characters who, though capable of violence and mayhem, don’t use their powers for evil. It’s a good choice for anyone looking for a comfort read right now.