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Wizard for Hire #2
Apprentice Needed
Ozzy Toffy’s adventure, which began in Wizard for Hire, continues when one dark and windy night, he gets out of bed, jumps out his window, and walks straight into the ocean.
More than ever, Ozzy could really use the services of Rin, the wizard he hired to help find his parents—but Rin is missing, despite Ozzy’s continual attempts to contact him. And Clark, the mechanical bird his father left him, is as peculiar and vain as ever.
When a mysterious package arrives, Ozzy and his good friend Sigi are sure that the plane ticket and thumb drive they find inside are from Rin. Trying to get Clark through security at the airport proves complicated—as most things are with Clark. But when they arrive in New York, they discover there’s even more adventure in store for them.
Will Rin return and save the day? Will Ozzy figure out why he keeps walking into the ocean? Can Sigi find a way to trust her delinquent father? Will someone please appreciate Clark the way he’d like to be appreciated? For once?
Wizard for Hire: Apprentice Needed is a story filled with humor and excitement that shows us the magic in everyday things. For ages 10 to 14, Grades 5 to 9.
More than ever, Ozzy could really use the services of Rin, the wizard he hired to help find his parents—but Rin is missing, despite Ozzy’s continual attempts to contact him. And Clark, the mechanical bird his father left him, is as peculiar and vain as ever.
When a mysterious package arrives, Ozzy and his good friend Sigi are sure that the plane ticket and thumb drive they find inside are from Rin. Trying to get Clark through security at the airport proves complicated—as most things are with Clark. But when they arrive in New York, they discover there’s even more adventure in store for them.
Will Rin return and save the day? Will Ozzy figure out why he keeps walking into the ocean? Can Sigi find a way to trust her delinquent father? Will someone please appreciate Clark the way he’d like to be appreciated? For once?
Wizard for Hire: Apprentice Needed is a story filled with humor and excitement that shows us the magic in everyday things. For ages 10 to 14, Grades 5 to 9.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2019
70 people are currently reading
2,416 people want to read
About the author
Obert Skye
41books869followersObert Skye read his first book at age two. He wrote his first story at age four. And he was nearly trampled by a herd of water buffalo at age six. For a short time, he lived on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, where he spent time as a candy-taster. Several years ago, Obert Skye says, he discovered the existence of Foo. Publishing his story as a fictional series was not Obert’s first choice. Nevertheless he is content that the “history� is being told.
Hobbies and other interests: Collecting old maps, water polo, roller coasters.
Hobbies and other interests: Collecting old maps, water polo, roller coasters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
April 8, 2019
Received an ARC from the publisher.
Words...I have none -- I can't think. Though I'm a grown woman, I THOROUGHLY enjoyed this sequel. It had all the elements of surprise, humor and sad moments. Once again Obert Skye has tackled this middle grade adventure fantasy with so much delight. The world is interesting, the characters are hilarious and the family aspect is strong. Loved everything about this book.
Ozzy is now fifteen years old and almost at the point of being content with the lost of his parents until more drama ensues. Ozzy is still a very respectable and intelligent child, but he now has to deal with his ability. So much goes on it in this book for Ozzy, but he continues to grow and mature into an awesome young man. He also becomes an apprentice to Rin as well.
Sigi is now sixteen and just as comical as ever. I love her straight-forward way. She's so funny. Same for Clark. He still cracks me up with how weird he is. Both are great friends to Ozzy.
Rin was outrageous. I still don't know if I believe that he is a wizard or not. I did see a lot more wizardry in this book, but I'm still confused. I love the little nuggets of wisdom he always drops. I love how he pops up or does something at just the right moment. Whether he is a wizard or just crazy I love him, I'm just sad he left again and with my flapping buddy.
Jon was an interesting character. I disliked what he did. I feel like he was a good kid, just mixed up in some crazy stuff. Ray was a character I did NOT like. He reminded of a more twisted and evil version of Charles. I can't believe how much of New York he ran. Things got way out of hand especially with the kids.
As for Ozzy's family they are all crazy. His parents are not dead...what?! His grandfather is mean. I just don't understand! I'm glad the reason of his parents moving was revealed in the sequel, but now I still got more questions about them, this serum, his powers and everything in between.
This is definitely an all out fantastical adventure of MG/YA fans. I loved it and can't wait for the next book!!
Words...I have none -- I can't think. Though I'm a grown woman, I THOROUGHLY enjoyed this sequel. It had all the elements of surprise, humor and sad moments. Once again Obert Skye has tackled this middle grade adventure fantasy with so much delight. The world is interesting, the characters are hilarious and the family aspect is strong. Loved everything about this book.
Ozzy is now fifteen years old and almost at the point of being content with the lost of his parents until more drama ensues. Ozzy is still a very respectable and intelligent child, but he now has to deal with his ability. So much goes on it in this book for Ozzy, but he continues to grow and mature into an awesome young man. He also becomes an apprentice to Rin as well.
Sigi is now sixteen and just as comical as ever. I love her straight-forward way. She's so funny. Same for Clark. He still cracks me up with how weird he is. Both are great friends to Ozzy.
Rin was outrageous. I still don't know if I believe that he is a wizard or not. I did see a lot more wizardry in this book, but I'm still confused. I love the little nuggets of wisdom he always drops. I love how he pops up or does something at just the right moment. Whether he is a wizard or just crazy I love him, I'm just sad he left again and with my flapping buddy.
Jon was an interesting character. I disliked what he did. I feel like he was a good kid, just mixed up in some crazy stuff. Ray was a character I did NOT like. He reminded of a more twisted and evil version of Charles. I can't believe how much of New York he ran. Things got way out of hand especially with the kids.
As for Ozzy's family they are all crazy. His parents are not dead...what?! His grandfather is mean. I just don't understand! I'm glad the reason of his parents moving was revealed in the sequel, but now I still got more questions about them, this serum, his powers and everything in between.
This is definitely an all out fantastical adventure of MG/YA fans. I loved it and can't wait for the next book!!
April 6, 2019
Once again I am amazed at the writing of Obert Skye. He brings the story to life for me through his descriptions to the characters point of view. His writing has enough sarcasm to keep me happy and is perfect for the younger reader.
This book is the second in a series. I think it could be read without the first, but there is so much back story it would be easier to read them in order.
Life continues to be unpredictable for Ozzy, Sigi, and Clark. Something sinister has the ability to overtake Ozzy. The group goes on a journey to save the day with the help of Rin, the sometimes present Wizard. Clark is the humorous thread in the group. The mechanical bird adds a fresh viewpoint and perspective. He loves all things metal, he makes the story lighter by his mere presence.
This is a book that old and young will love and appreciate. I look forward to whatever Obert Skye has up his sleeve. He has never disappointed me in the books he writes.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is the second in a series. I think it could be read without the first, but there is so much back story it would be easier to read them in order.
Life continues to be unpredictable for Ozzy, Sigi, and Clark. Something sinister has the ability to overtake Ozzy. The group goes on a journey to save the day with the help of Rin, the sometimes present Wizard. Clark is the humorous thread in the group. The mechanical bird adds a fresh viewpoint and perspective. He loves all things metal, he makes the story lighter by his mere presence.
This is a book that old and young will love and appreciate. I look forward to whatever Obert Skye has up his sleeve. He has never disappointed me in the books he writes.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
April 4, 2019
I love to find books that I can read, but that I can share with my kids. This is one of those. I love the way the plot is interesting enough for adults and kids alike. This is one I would read with/to my kids.
Ozzy is one of my all time favorite characters. He’s just a teenage boy. But he’s been through so much stuff that would have broken an adult, yet he just keeps going on doing his best. This one starts with even more craziness for Ozzy. Someone seems to be able to take over his mind and make him do things he would never otherwise do.
The point of views in this one bounce around a bit. I love that! The reader gets to know what’s going on in the mind of the bad guys, Sigi and sometimes even Clark. I love that bird! His character keeps this book from getting to serious. One thing that I find really interesting is that the reader never gets to see things through Rin’s point of view. Maybe his point of view wouldn’t even make any sense, a lot of what he says doesn’t really.
The plot of this one is full of adventure, kidnappings, craziness, and just plain fun. The reader never knows what will be coming next. That’s part of the fun of this one.
Obert Skye is a master of writing these types of books! I love the way he writes his characters and plots. They are all just plain fun. You need this book in your life!
Ozzy is one of my all time favorite characters. He’s just a teenage boy. But he’s been through so much stuff that would have broken an adult, yet he just keeps going on doing his best. This one starts with even more craziness for Ozzy. Someone seems to be able to take over his mind and make him do things he would never otherwise do.
The point of views in this one bounce around a bit. I love that! The reader gets to know what’s going on in the mind of the bad guys, Sigi and sometimes even Clark. I love that bird! His character keeps this book from getting to serious. One thing that I find really interesting is that the reader never gets to see things through Rin’s point of view. Maybe his point of view wouldn’t even make any sense, a lot of what he says doesn’t really.
The plot of this one is full of adventure, kidnappings, craziness, and just plain fun. The reader never knows what will be coming next. That’s part of the fun of this one.
Obert Skye is a master of writing these types of books! I love the way he writes his characters and plots. They are all just plain fun. You need this book in your life!
March 6, 2022
کتاب خوندن توی گوشی همیشه سخت بوده ولی این بار خیلی طول کشید. با اینکه کتاب جذابی بود و فصل ها کوتاه
کتاب ادامه ی داستان ''جادوفروش'' بود . که اگر بخوام اعتراف کنم یکی از معدود دفعاتی بود که ترجمه ی کتاب اول از پرتقال رو بیشتر دوست داشتم تا انگلیسی کتاب دوم
ماجرا همچنان قشنگ بود. رین یخورده بیشتر روی اعصاب بود . ماجراجویی کتاب و نقاط اوج و فرود داستان هم عالی بودن و برای کسایی خوبه که مثل من از خوندن کتاب هایی که توش یکسره در حال رخ دادن اتفاقه و خیلی شلوغ پلوغ لذت میبرن
در هر صورت، کتاب خیلی جدی نیست و برای مثال میگم ، کسی نمیخواد توش دنیا رو نجات بده 😅
کتاب ادامه ی داستان ''جادوفروش'' بود . که اگر بخوام اعتراف کنم یکی از معدود دفعاتی بود که ترجمه ی کتاب اول از پرتقال رو بیشتر دوست داشتم تا انگلیسی کتاب دوم
ماجرا همچنان قشنگ بود. رین یخورده بیشتر روی اعصاب بود . ماجراجویی کتاب و نقاط اوج و فرود داستان هم عالی بودن و برای کسایی خوبه که مثل من از خوندن کتاب هایی که توش یکسره در حال رخ دادن اتفاقه و خیلی شلوغ پلوغ لذت میبرن
در هر صورت، کتاب خیلی جدی نیست و برای مثال میگم ، کسی نمیخواد توش دنیا رو نجات بده 😅
June 28, 2019
My one main complaint is simply that there WAS NOT enough mention of breakfast food and I am very disappointed in that.
That said, the sequel was even more magical than the first, although I did feel like it took a little while for the story to pick up in this one. Looking forward to another! (With a side of bacon!)
That said, the sequel was even more magical than the first, although I did feel like it took a little while for the story to pick up in this one. Looking forward to another! (With a side of bacon!)
June 9, 2023
این مجموعه
محتواش و شخصیتاش از با ارزش ترین چیزای زندگی منن�
محتواش و شخصیتاش از با ارزش ترین چیزای زندگی منن�
January 14, 2022
When I first stumbled on Wizard for Hire (book 1), I fell in love with it. I debated with myself, long and hard, about whether I wanted to stop with the first book and love it as it was, or to dive into the sequential books to learn more about Ozzy and risk the rest of the series being a disappointment. I’m so, so very glad that I chose to listen to the second book, Apprentice Needed!
Wizard for Hire: Apprentice Needed picks up where Wizard for Hire stops. I think what is unique about this series, is that you can read the first book as a stand-alone, and yes, you’ll miss out on a LOT if you stop there, but the plot is tied together neatly at the end, and continuing the series is almost like “bonus content�. In Apprentice Needed, we expound on the original plot even deeper, ask even bigger and scarier questions, and encounter so much more adventure.
I love the character growth, the masterfully placed mystery of everything, and the silliness of Rin, Ozzy, Sigi, and Clark. And the heartbreak. I binged this audiobook in less than a week and started the third book immediately after finishing this one. Apprentice Needed is a very well-done sequel, however, if you choose to dive into this one, keep book 3, Magic Required, close at hand, because this one ends in more of a cliffhanger than the first one did!
Wizard for Hire: Apprentice Needed picks up where Wizard for Hire stops. I think what is unique about this series, is that you can read the first book as a stand-alone, and yes, you’ll miss out on a LOT if you stop there, but the plot is tied together neatly at the end, and continuing the series is almost like “bonus content�. In Apprentice Needed, we expound on the original plot even deeper, ask even bigger and scarier questions, and encounter so much more adventure.
I love the character growth, the masterfully placed mystery of everything, and the silliness of Rin, Ozzy, Sigi, and Clark. And the heartbreak. I binged this audiobook in less than a week and started the third book immediately after finishing this one. Apprentice Needed is a very well-done sequel, however, if you choose to dive into this one, keep book 3, Magic Required, close at hand, because this one ends in more of a cliffhanger than the first one did!
April 5, 2024
ریویو� دوم:
اومدم جلد سوم رو بخونم اما چون فاصله افتاده بود خیلی چیزها رو فراموش کرده بودم. در نتیجه دوباره اومدم سراغ این. (یه سری صفحات که زیاد مهم نبودن رو رد کردم که فقط مرور بشه داستان.)
و باید بگم تکراری بودنش هیچی از احساس فوقالعادها� که در من ایجاد میکن� کم نکرد!
این کتاب یه شاهکاره و اوبرت اسکای یه نابغهس�!
میتون� کلی درمورد اینک� چقدر عاشق این مجموعها� بنویسم.
اومدم جلد سوم رو بخونم اما چون فاصله افتاده بود خیلی چیزها رو فراموش کرده بودم. در نتیجه دوباره اومدم سراغ این. (یه سری صفحات که زیاد مهم نبودن رو رد کردم که فقط مرور بشه داستان.)
و باید بگم تکراری بودنش هیچی از احساس فوقالعادها� که در من ایجاد میکن� کم نکرد!
این کتاب یه شاهکاره و اوبرت اسکای یه نابغهس�!
میتون� کلی درمورد اینک� چقدر عاشق این مجموعها� بنویسم.
August 2, 2020
Another great addition to the series. My likes and dislikes remain the same from the first book. I even saw some character progression, which was nice. The characters are, by far, my favorite part of the book. They make me laugh out loud. They make me feel for them. There are still a lot of unanswered questions, but I am hoping the third book will fix that.
Side note, we listened to this and Kirby Heyborne does a fantastic job narrating. But someone needs to please tell him not to YELL when the character yells (there is a lot of adjusting the volume while listening).
Side note, we listened to this and Kirby Heyborne does a fantastic job narrating. But someone needs to please tell him not to YELL when the character yells (there is a lot of adjusting the volume while listening).
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October 17, 2022My twins and I enjoyed this book, number two in a series. We’re still not sure if Rin is really magical or not, but we sure enjoy tagging along with him, Ozzy, Sigi, and Clark. I liked the first book a little better than this one, but it’s definitely worth reading for fans of the series. We’re looking forward to book three.
April 11, 2019
So much fun! I loved the first book and I adored this one just as much (if not more).
It picks up a few months after the first book ended, with Ozzy living with Sigi and her mother. After a mysterious man appears at their doorstep and hands them a flash drive, Ozzy and Sigi head to New York City, presumably to meet up with Rin. But their trip is much more dangerous than they expected it to be. It also sets the teens on a course of finding answers to questions they didn't know they had. Danger and tension build as Ozzy and his assortment of strange friends try to piece everything together.
I had a blast reading this book. It was hilarious and action-packed and exactly what I'd hoped for. From the mind-control to Rin's bizarre expressions to Clark chatting up the car keys, this book is a delight from start to finish.
If you're looking for books for boys or girls in their early teens, this series should be on your radar. It's funny, well written, and thoroughly enjoyable. This is a series, so make sure you start with book 1, !
Content: Suspense and perilous situations. Movie rating would be PG.
Source: The publisher sent me an ARC (advanced reader's copy).
It picks up a few months after the first book ended, with Ozzy living with Sigi and her mother. After a mysterious man appears at their doorstep and hands them a flash drive, Ozzy and Sigi head to New York City, presumably to meet up with Rin. But their trip is much more dangerous than they expected it to be. It also sets the teens on a course of finding answers to questions they didn't know they had. Danger and tension build as Ozzy and his assortment of strange friends try to piece everything together.
I had a blast reading this book. It was hilarious and action-packed and exactly what I'd hoped for. From the mind-control to Rin's bizarre expressions to Clark chatting up the car keys, this book is a delight from start to finish.
If you're looking for books for boys or girls in their early teens, this series should be on your radar. It's funny, well written, and thoroughly enjoyable. This is a series, so make sure you start with book 1, !
Content: Suspense and perilous situations. Movie rating would be PG.
Source: The publisher sent me an ARC (advanced reader's copy).
June 12, 2024
Entrancing. Three favorite nuggets of thought:
1."...all those books you've read and songs you've heard testify in one way or another that eventually-when all the dust settles, and the secrets have been exposed-good wins. Not great, good. Great dies trying to climb the highest or gain the most. Good achieves what is right and all reality expands because of it. You were born into something. Now it's up to you to put the picture together so that you can see things clearly."
2. "Magic happens despite what we do or don't believe. There is good-and there is evil. In life, some good wins and some evil is victorious. What you or I believe doesn't change that - it just changes us."
3. "Truth exists regardless of what you believe"
Overall, it was a captivating read. Thank you Obert Skye!
1."...all those books you've read and songs you've heard testify in one way or another that eventually-when all the dust settles, and the secrets have been exposed-good wins. Not great, good. Great dies trying to climb the highest or gain the most. Good achieves what is right and all reality expands because of it. You were born into something. Now it's up to you to put the picture together so that you can see things clearly."
2. "Magic happens despite what we do or don't believe. There is good-and there is evil. In life, some good wins and some evil is victorious. What you or I believe doesn't change that - it just changes us."
3. "Truth exists regardless of what you believe"
Overall, it was a captivating read. Thank you Obert Skye!
May 10, 2019
In book two after an exciting end of the villain in book one, the story starts several months later. Rin has disappeared and now Ozzy is living with Sigi and her mother, Rin's ex-wife. Of course, it doesn't take long for things to start heating up and again and Sigi, Clark, and Ozzy are off again on a new adventure; this time to New York City. Many new things are uncovered about Ozzy, his parents, and why Ozzy's finger does weird things. Again, I love Clark the mechanical bird and his great wit. This book is exciting and has great action that keeps the story moving. This whole series is a fun one especially for tweens & teens between the ages of 10-15. Anyone that likes a little fantasy, mystery and action combined will enjoy the Wizard for Hire books.
March 24, 2021
I'm thoroughly enjoying this series so far. Ozzy is a great character who has been through so much, yet retains an innocence that allows him to believe in the impossible (that may not be as impossible as it seems). Looking forward to the next book.
September 18, 2020
I loved the continued story of Ozzy and Rin. I came to really enjoy all the characters more than I did the first. Clark the metal sentient bird made me laugh audibly. I can't wait to start the third and last book in the series!
February 4, 2024
Family read, the kids loved it. I'm still unsure how I feel. I'm excited to see where the last book goes.
February 28, 2024
Lots of little laughs but I wish more had actually happened in the book.
March 22, 2019
The first book in the series I rated a 3, but I'm fully in now. Skye's writing is creepy and, at times, feels like it's meant for an older audience than the juvs, but the adventure of it all will definitely appeal to young folks. What is creepy: having your will taken from you and doing dangerous things as a result. I was actually more on edge in book one, but book two demonstrates the strange power Ozzy's parents discovered much more.
There is plenty of mystery in this book and some of Rin's actions were seemingly unforgivable, but Ozzy found a way to forgive. His slow induction into apprenticeship is full of folly and the mundane, but it feels more real than other fantasty books. Things don't always go according to plan, even if you are a wizard, so why pretend? One of my favorite parts of the book is how Ozzy starts to sound more and more like a wizard himself.
Rin is a confusing character who seems useless at times and at times just completely brilliant. I have to say, I have no doubts anymore about his claims of wizardry. I am impatiently awaiting the next in this series (and going back and starting some of his other series to help with the wait).
There is plenty of mystery in this book and some of Rin's actions were seemingly unforgivable, but Ozzy found a way to forgive. His slow induction into apprenticeship is full of folly and the mundane, but it feels more real than other fantasty books. Things don't always go according to plan, even if you are a wizard, so why pretend? One of my favorite parts of the book is how Ozzy starts to sound more and more like a wizard himself.
Rin is a confusing character who seems useless at times and at times just completely brilliant. I have to say, I have no doubts anymore about his claims of wizardry. I am impatiently awaiting the next in this series (and going back and starting some of his other series to help with the wait).
February 4, 2023
Not too bad. Definitely something I would read to my kids.
June 18, 2020
Oh my goodness, we absolutely loved this book! The first book was great even with all the cringe worthy moments that Ozzy had learning normal social conventions. The mystery continues in this sequel as Ozzy is being hunted by Charles's partner Ray and searching for Rin. The crazy coincidences continue while Rin insists that Ozzy is his apprentice and has 5 tasks he must complete and Ozzy is left to continue to question Rin's sanity or wizard abilities. My kids (10, 13, 15 year old) listened with me and we all love this book especially Rin's off the wall sayings like " Love is the soul giggling. " This is more of a realistic fiction than a true fantasy in style which definitely makes it more interesting. It's a clean read and I would place it as a 3rd grade and up read-- adults will enjoy it too.
The narrator does a fantastic job as always, really can't go wrong with Kirby! He does such a great job with the acting and voices.
The narrator does a fantastic job as always, really can't go wrong with Kirby! He does such a great job with the acting and voices.
September 13, 2024
Great end to a fun series. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed these books. There were such interesting twists and emotional moments. After reading the series, I believe in Magic. :-)
November 23, 2024
Good book for the upper elementary age of kids. What a fun book. Enjoyed it and was just as good as the first book in the series. I absolutely love Clark. Was chuckling aloud at work as I listened to this.
*clean book
*clean book
August 7, 2024
I am thoroughly enjoying this series. I love the magic. It is so relatable to real life. It has Christian themes of trust, miracles, and hope. I love the short, quirky words of wisdom that Rin constantly imparts on everyone. It has fantastic messages (more details at the end of book notes). This book was a journey of faith for both Ozzy and Sigi. There was still lots of action and hilarious scenes and dialogue. Clark and Rin make me cackle out loud. I also cried twice. This series! The over all tone is fun and light hearted but there are still lots of things to think about and feel. The book encourages me to not judge people and love the quirky in life! The characters are so unique and lovable. So much personality. Kirby Heyborne adds so much to the magical experience too. He makes a well written book come to life! I highly recommend the audiobook format. The writing has the perfect amount of sarcasm.
SPOILERS AND book notes:
Rin when he was by himself did real magic with his wand! Conjured a flame and opened a lock and flew! Ozzy rides a motorcycle now. Can he get any cooler? Clark is so witty: ““That’s a swimsuit.� “I think you mean swamsuit,� Clark corrected Ozzy. “She’s already used it a bunch of times.� And this one: ““Are you kidding? They’d be fools to take you on.� “Damp straight!� the bird said. “Wait—am I saying that right?� Ozzy hates wearing shoes. Sigi calls Ozzy “forest boy�. They hold hands a lot and it’s cute. Ozzy is still so clueless about some things bc he grew up in isolation. The discipline serum: “The serum was the power to control one’s will, and the ultimate power to control the will of others if needed.� Loved how much hilarious scenes happened at the airport and on the plane. So many relatable things. The snooty woman with the giant hat and the travel diaper that sat by them. I love this!! You need to always be curious! “it is a fool who laughs at the odd. Different is just an understanding you have not yet grasped.� Look at this!! “Rin smiled wide, acting as if a strong grin was the sign of a real wizard.� Clark and Rin banter are the best. I continue to love Rins one liners of wisdom: ““Remember, a man who questions absurdity must also question the norm.”� I love this: “There were many reasons why Ozzy was happy to see Sigi. On a good day she was easily his favorite human in the world. And on a day like today, as she stood in a white printed T-shirt, wearing blue jean shorts and black Doc Martens, Sigi looked too good to be real—like a Disney princess that had burned down the castle and was living by her own rules.� Ok I am FEELING so sad emotions listening to Ozzy be devastated about the cloaked house be burned to the ground. but he is WISE beyond his years: “Ozzy whispered the list of what he needed as he stared at what was left of a large piece of his soul. “I need Clark.� “I need Sigi.� “I need my parents.� AWWW OZZY!! This is Ozzy when he found out Sigi was missing!!!!!: “Ozzy didn’t stand around to speculate. He ran to his motorcycle and flew to one of the few things that meant more to him than the cloaked house.� “More than fair� instead of “fair enough� is such a hilarious inside joke. and this is so beautiful and applicable: ““Write this down,� Rin said. “Don’t look for excuses to use magic. Instead, look for ways to see the miracles already in process.� They found Ozzys gpa and he is a JERK with a house full of books! He doesn’t even care that his daughter is dead or for Ozzy!! I am bawling for him. Ozzy has the formula inside him!! ““Luck is blinding,� Rin loudly. “It hides all the mechanics and miracles that magic makes possible.� Wizards are magical bc of their optimism and their faith!! I love this description of Sigi looking for Ozzy: “Locking her knees, she planted herself and gazed with a Sauron-like intensity over the ocean.� It’s crazy how amazing person Ozzy has become. He has perspective and patience and forgiveness. Rin was the one who burned his house and ransacked his lawyers office! Both trying to help Ozzy find his parents. But still! Ozzy forgave him! Ozzy was transformed into this person after he came up out of the ocean water. Just like us and baptism. We become new creatures and we get the Holy Ghost to help us be better people. “But as hard as he tried to be mad or upset at the wizard, his mind kept reminding him of the feeling he had experienced in the ocean. He was different, and he couldn’t deny it. Had he been told that Rin had destroyed the cloaked house earlier in the day, he might have refused to ever speak to the wizard again. But he didn’t feel any hate or horror over what had been done. He felt misunderstanding and a will to let it go, not resentment or anger. He also felt a desire to be heading out to sea. For the first time since Rin had returned, Ozzy was committed and filled with purpose—� awww look at our wise Ozzy: ““Most wizards can travel through a fireplace or dimensions,� Sigi told her dad. “You should just summon us to be where we need to be.� Ozzy replied for Rin. “And miss what happens in between the beginnings and ends?� ““And he’s right. This is the part that counts. Life would be unfulfilling if we all just showed up where we need to be with no knowledge or memory of how we got there.� Ozzy found out that his parents might be alive. So beautiful. And as Rin hugged him as he cried he said this: ““And I will find them,� Rin added. “It may take more than a wizard—maybe an apprentice, and a Sigi, and a bird, but I will find them.� When Jon held Sigi captive with a gun, Rin turned all Molly Weasley: ““Let go of my daughter,� was all Rin said.� ““Let her go.� Rin’s words were calm but had an edge. He was issuing an ultimatum that felt as frightening as the turbulent water around them.� Ozzy and Sigi forever!!!!! ““You’ll drive to the train tracks?� he asked her. “If you’ll carry me the rest of the way.� Ozzy knew Sigi was joking, but he would have carried her anywhere.� And their banter is amazing: ““I still can’t believe it’s gone,� Sigi said. “I know,� Ozzy said, “but things have to change for us to understand uncertainty. Just think—the next time something burns down it will be easier to deal with.� “That’s a dumb thought.� “It won’t be my last one.� “I guess there’s one thing in this world that’s certain.� Clark and Rin are together and gone but Sigi and Ozzy are together! And they are hopeful and believe in magic. Ozzy had magic with his finger to control people and they saw Rin mess with water. I just love how he uses real life magic. Coincidences that really aren’t coincidences. Small tender mercies or miracles. Just live righteously, trust that God wants your ultimate happiness, and move forward. Have hope and trust!!! I LOVE THESE MESSAGES. And the magic in this series!!! The magic is present the whole time, but you must have FAITH in wizards to see it. The magic is not blatant in your face. You don’t want to be like Korihor and only believe if “you show me a sign�. It’s just like gods miracles in our lives. The miracles are there regardless if we recognize them. Rin is kind of like a prophet that performs miracles. He is persecuted and never denies what he knows to be true even though EVERYONE tells him he is kooky.
SPOILERS AND book notes:
Rin when he was by himself did real magic with his wand! Conjured a flame and opened a lock and flew! Ozzy rides a motorcycle now. Can he get any cooler? Clark is so witty: ““That’s a swimsuit.� “I think you mean swamsuit,� Clark corrected Ozzy. “She’s already used it a bunch of times.� And this one: ““Are you kidding? They’d be fools to take you on.� “Damp straight!� the bird said. “Wait—am I saying that right?� Ozzy hates wearing shoes. Sigi calls Ozzy “forest boy�. They hold hands a lot and it’s cute. Ozzy is still so clueless about some things bc he grew up in isolation. The discipline serum: “The serum was the power to control one’s will, and the ultimate power to control the will of others if needed.� Loved how much hilarious scenes happened at the airport and on the plane. So many relatable things. The snooty woman with the giant hat and the travel diaper that sat by them. I love this!! You need to always be curious! “it is a fool who laughs at the odd. Different is just an understanding you have not yet grasped.� Look at this!! “Rin smiled wide, acting as if a strong grin was the sign of a real wizard.� Clark and Rin banter are the best. I continue to love Rins one liners of wisdom: ““Remember, a man who questions absurdity must also question the norm.”� I love this: “There were many reasons why Ozzy was happy to see Sigi. On a good day she was easily his favorite human in the world. And on a day like today, as she stood in a white printed T-shirt, wearing blue jean shorts and black Doc Martens, Sigi looked too good to be real—like a Disney princess that had burned down the castle and was living by her own rules.� Ok I am FEELING so sad emotions listening to Ozzy be devastated about the cloaked house be burned to the ground. but he is WISE beyond his years: “Ozzy whispered the list of what he needed as he stared at what was left of a large piece of his soul. “I need Clark.� “I need Sigi.� “I need my parents.� AWWW OZZY!! This is Ozzy when he found out Sigi was missing!!!!!: “Ozzy didn’t stand around to speculate. He ran to his motorcycle and flew to one of the few things that meant more to him than the cloaked house.� “More than fair� instead of “fair enough� is such a hilarious inside joke. and this is so beautiful and applicable: ““Write this down,� Rin said. “Don’t look for excuses to use magic. Instead, look for ways to see the miracles already in process.� They found Ozzys gpa and he is a JERK with a house full of books! He doesn’t even care that his daughter is dead or for Ozzy!! I am bawling for him. Ozzy has the formula inside him!! ““Luck is blinding,� Rin loudly. “It hides all the mechanics and miracles that magic makes possible.� Wizards are magical bc of their optimism and their faith!! I love this description of Sigi looking for Ozzy: “Locking her knees, she planted herself and gazed with a Sauron-like intensity over the ocean.� It’s crazy how amazing person Ozzy has become. He has perspective and patience and forgiveness. Rin was the one who burned his house and ransacked his lawyers office! Both trying to help Ozzy find his parents. But still! Ozzy forgave him! Ozzy was transformed into this person after he came up out of the ocean water. Just like us and baptism. We become new creatures and we get the Holy Ghost to help us be better people. “But as hard as he tried to be mad or upset at the wizard, his mind kept reminding him of the feeling he had experienced in the ocean. He was different, and he couldn’t deny it. Had he been told that Rin had destroyed the cloaked house earlier in the day, he might have refused to ever speak to the wizard again. But he didn’t feel any hate or horror over what had been done. He felt misunderstanding and a will to let it go, not resentment or anger. He also felt a desire to be heading out to sea. For the first time since Rin had returned, Ozzy was committed and filled with purpose—� awww look at our wise Ozzy: ““Most wizards can travel through a fireplace or dimensions,� Sigi told her dad. “You should just summon us to be where we need to be.� Ozzy replied for Rin. “And miss what happens in between the beginnings and ends?� ““And he’s right. This is the part that counts. Life would be unfulfilling if we all just showed up where we need to be with no knowledge or memory of how we got there.� Ozzy found out that his parents might be alive. So beautiful. And as Rin hugged him as he cried he said this: ““And I will find them,� Rin added. “It may take more than a wizard—maybe an apprentice, and a Sigi, and a bird, but I will find them.� When Jon held Sigi captive with a gun, Rin turned all Molly Weasley: ““Let go of my daughter,� was all Rin said.� ““Let her go.� Rin’s words were calm but had an edge. He was issuing an ultimatum that felt as frightening as the turbulent water around them.� Ozzy and Sigi forever!!!!! ““You’ll drive to the train tracks?� he asked her. “If you’ll carry me the rest of the way.� Ozzy knew Sigi was joking, but he would have carried her anywhere.� And their banter is amazing: ““I still can’t believe it’s gone,� Sigi said. “I know,� Ozzy said, “but things have to change for us to understand uncertainty. Just think—the next time something burns down it will be easier to deal with.� “That’s a dumb thought.� “It won’t be my last one.� “I guess there’s one thing in this world that’s certain.� Clark and Rin are together and gone but Sigi and Ozzy are together! And they are hopeful and believe in magic. Ozzy had magic with his finger to control people and they saw Rin mess with water. I just love how he uses real life magic. Coincidences that really aren’t coincidences. Small tender mercies or miracles. Just live righteously, trust that God wants your ultimate happiness, and move forward. Have hope and trust!!! I LOVE THESE MESSAGES. And the magic in this series!!! The magic is present the whole time, but you must have FAITH in wizards to see it. The magic is not blatant in your face. You don’t want to be like Korihor and only believe if “you show me a sign�. It’s just like gods miracles in our lives. The miracles are there regardless if we recognize them. Rin is kind of like a prophet that performs miracles. He is persecuted and never denies what he knows to be true even though EVERYONE tells him he is kooky.
September 25, 2024
I certainly enjoyed this book more than the last one. It hits a lot of the same beats... but that's not necessarily a bad thing. I'm pretty ambivalent about Ozzy, the main character, his family and his over all story arc. It seems like maybe his parents were super villains. Or at the very least, more mad scientists than super geniuses. I am also kind of over Sigi, his love interest and how in the face of any situation (including ones that are life threatening) she always takes a beat to tell her father what a piece of shit he is. What I really do enjoy is Rin, the wizard. Is magic real? Is he just a weirdo in a bathrobe who's luck hasn't run out yet? Fuck if I know! He is charming one second and infuriating the next. I also love Clark... the metal bird who is turned on by other metal objects. There's a scene where he's caught in the bathtub with a set of car keys that had me rolling on the floor. Another thing I like about these stories is how often the characters bring up Harry Potter and the differences between this world and J. K. Rowling's. It's almost as if the writer is speaking directly through the wizard to the audience, as if to say... "Oh? You wanted Hogwarts? Yeah, that's not how we do things around here". I'm sure that regardless of my feelings on this book and the previous one... I will read the third book too. I don't love this series, but I definitely like it enough to continue on.
April 9, 2019
This is the second book in the Wizard for Hire series. And it is FULL of surprises!
I so enjoyed the first book, I didn't want it to end. But end it definitely did. I was a little letdown at the beginning of the second book, then, because it was a different vibe. But oh boy. That didn't last long. I found myself right in the thick of things again before two shakes of a lamb's tail!
From the cloaked house to New York City and on to the middle of the ocean, this book really takes a ride. I loved the characters, and the way they grow, especially Ozzy.
Ozzy is dealing with some pretty heavy real life stuff, and his sentient mechanical bird Clark provides just the exact amount of comic relief. He is really something. So when Clark is threatened, it will make you suck in your breath!
I absolutely loved the ending on this. I will be looking for book three. This one just released last week, though, so I have a bit of a wait. Look for my blog post tomorrow for the book launch blog tour!
I highly recommend this series for anyone looking for something after Harry Potter. I think this will feed that idea of being an outsider who finds his crew, and there is every bit of a hint of magic here too. It's Middle Grade but I highly recommend it for adults too, of course!
I so enjoyed the first book, I didn't want it to end. But end it definitely did. I was a little letdown at the beginning of the second book, then, because it was a different vibe. But oh boy. That didn't last long. I found myself right in the thick of things again before two shakes of a lamb's tail!
From the cloaked house to New York City and on to the middle of the ocean, this book really takes a ride. I loved the characters, and the way they grow, especially Ozzy.
Ozzy is dealing with some pretty heavy real life stuff, and his sentient mechanical bird Clark provides just the exact amount of comic relief. He is really something. So when Clark is threatened, it will make you suck in your breath!
I absolutely loved the ending on this. I will be looking for book three. This one just released last week, though, so I have a bit of a wait. Look for my blog post tomorrow for the book launch blog tour!
I highly recommend this series for anyone looking for something after Harry Potter. I think this will feed that idea of being an outsider who finds his crew, and there is every bit of a hint of magic here too. It's Middle Grade but I highly recommend it for adults too, of course!
July 13, 2019
Apprentice Needed (Wizard for Hire #2) by Obert Skye, 416 pages. Shadow Mountain, 2019. $18
Language: G (0 swears, 0 ‘f�); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (some danger, threats with a gun)
BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
Rin has disappeared into Quarfelt, leaving Ozzy and Sigi with many questions. When a ticket to New York City and an invitation to meeting arrive for Ozzy, he is sure that its from Rin, so Sigi decides to join him on the trip. Her mom is out of town and they’ll be back the next day. She’ll never know. They discover, to their dismay, that their mysterious benefactor is instead a power-hungry fiend who wants to get his hands on Ozzy’s parents� control formula no matter the cost.
Woo-hoo! Welcome back to the world of wizard Rin � is he really a wizard? Clark the bird is back too and Rin’s motives and action are just the right amount of enigmatic. Ozzy and Sigi are a great foil for the other two. And there are sure hints that a third book is in the works. So much fun!
Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS
Language: G (0 swears, 0 ‘f�); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (some danger, threats with a gun)
BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
Rin has disappeared into Quarfelt, leaving Ozzy and Sigi with many questions. When a ticket to New York City and an invitation to meeting arrive for Ozzy, he is sure that its from Rin, so Sigi decides to join him on the trip. Her mom is out of town and they’ll be back the next day. She’ll never know. They discover, to their dismay, that their mysterious benefactor is instead a power-hungry fiend who wants to get his hands on Ozzy’s parents� control formula no matter the cost.
Woo-hoo! Welcome back to the world of wizard Rin � is he really a wizard? Clark the bird is back too and Rin’s motives and action are just the right amount of enigmatic. Ozzy and Sigi are a great foil for the other two. And there are sure hints that a third book is in the works. So much fun!
Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS
April 23, 2019
This picks up with our characters. It does start pretty much right off with Ozzy in a much happier home life, well, until he walks into the sea. The beginning grabbed me as Obert's books often do. Run shows a little more responsibility and there are hints of some actual magic. Not my favorite series from Skye, but an interesting take on wizards with some good plot twists. I just an unsure why all the grownups, even the supposed good guys, are somewhat villainous. Ozzies parents use people like guinea pigs, our wizard is an absentee father, and nobody seems to question him dragging two teens into dangerous situations.
I'd classify this one more for younger YA than middle grade.
I'd classify this one more for younger YA than middle grade.
April 11, 2022
I dont know if the authors writing style is begging to grate on me now that ive listened to two of his books or it is actaully more prounced in this book but there are defintley things that annoy me more the more I hear of it.
For example, the wizard says everything kindly, and those seem to be the only words used to describe everything he says even though he says rather asshole things.
The writer seemed to be saying in one scene that people just protest for social justice while really knowing nothing about the cause or caring what theyre protesting which is rather in poor taste.
Still, I dod enjoy the charchters - the two children mostly and the plot is fun.
For example, the wizard says everything kindly, and those seem to be the only words used to describe everything he says even though he says rather asshole things.
The writer seemed to be saying in one scene that people just protest for social justice while really knowing nothing about the cause or caring what theyre protesting which is rather in poor taste.
Still, I dod enjoy the charchters - the two children mostly and the plot is fun.
May 3, 2020
Plot:
Remember how the lawyer walked into the polar bear exhibit, and the women got up on stage to sing? They said they “blacked out� and did not remember how they got there, or what happened during their incident. Ozzy feels similar to that, as he woke up on the beach to Sigi and Clark screaming at him for trying to drown himself. Before his midnight swim, Ozzy’s life was normal. He had school to attend, he lived with Patti and Sigi, even though Rin disappeared, Ozzy was putting the horrors of the last few months behind him. He still visited the cloak house, only by motorcycle this time instead of walking, and from his parent's safety deposit box has a new picture of the three of them together and some music to remember them by. Where he was still attracted to the past, he was ready to move on. Yet, him blacking out and walking into the ocean scared him, and with no Rin to ask, how was he supposed to stop it from happening? When a weekend ticket for him came to the house one day, to a hotel whose initials spell RIN, Ozzy knew he had to go, in case this was the wizard trying to contact him. Sigi, who would not let Ozzy go by himself, and Clark insisting he must also attend, the two children and bird flew across the country in search of the missing wizard. However it was not Rin waiting for them at the hotel, but Ray. The man that helped kill Ozzy parents, who wanted what his parents were working on. Almost kidnapping the kids, Ozzy and Sigi managed to escape with the help of the hard to contact wizard Rin. The children, wizard, and the bird need to figure out several things that include how to stop Ray from hurting them, figure out what is wrong with Ozzy, find out if Rin truly is a wizard, and find some metal that is willing to hold a decent conversation with Clark, not necessarily in that order.
Thoughts:
Obert Skye is continuing his “real magic could exist� world in this next installment of the series. The story picks up a few weeks after the first one ended, with Ozzy in a more settled place. The town, including the police force, knows he exists, he has a lawyer settling out the legal bits of him being an orphan, and Ozzy is living with Sigi and her mom at their house. Yet for the boy who grew up in the woods by himself, normal was never going to last for him. Almost immediately Skye has Ozzy, Clark, and Sigi up for some maybe-magical adventure, this time with the children flying to New York City. Ozzy's character has developed through this novel, as he is no longer the naive woods boy he was, but starting to get this world, and really pushes Rin in this novel for the truth of if he truly was a wizard, or not. Sigi also gets more of a spotlight in this novel, as she helps out her friend, and begins to open up about how having an absent wizard for a father has affected her growing up. Clark and Rin, still annoying characters with little developed, and decreasing likeability as the story goes on - mostly for Clark. This story, like the last, also does not explain if magic or real, following a similar plot to the first of nothing really happening, until the end with one giant event that leaves readers, as well as Ozzy and Sigi questioning if Rin is a wizard or not. Frustrating, because on that topic this book does not explain any more than the last book did about magic, leaving the final determination for the next book, making this one seem a bit pointless. Honestly for the size of the novel, and the content you needed from it to finish the series (a bit of character growth and 3 things), this novel was kind of drawn out with not a lot of meaningful stuff going on that can have past-this-book effects on the characters. Where Skye is really pushing for this series to be a trilogy, this book suffers the fate that too many middle books feel, that it is unnecessary with only two lines of actual substance that will be relevant in the final installment of the series.
Remember how the lawyer walked into the polar bear exhibit, and the women got up on stage to sing? They said they “blacked out� and did not remember how they got there, or what happened during their incident. Ozzy feels similar to that, as he woke up on the beach to Sigi and Clark screaming at him for trying to drown himself. Before his midnight swim, Ozzy’s life was normal. He had school to attend, he lived with Patti and Sigi, even though Rin disappeared, Ozzy was putting the horrors of the last few months behind him. He still visited the cloak house, only by motorcycle this time instead of walking, and from his parent's safety deposit box has a new picture of the three of them together and some music to remember them by. Where he was still attracted to the past, he was ready to move on. Yet, him blacking out and walking into the ocean scared him, and with no Rin to ask, how was he supposed to stop it from happening? When a weekend ticket for him came to the house one day, to a hotel whose initials spell RIN, Ozzy knew he had to go, in case this was the wizard trying to contact him. Sigi, who would not let Ozzy go by himself, and Clark insisting he must also attend, the two children and bird flew across the country in search of the missing wizard. However it was not Rin waiting for them at the hotel, but Ray. The man that helped kill Ozzy parents, who wanted what his parents were working on. Almost kidnapping the kids, Ozzy and Sigi managed to escape with the help of the hard to contact wizard Rin. The children, wizard, and the bird need to figure out several things that include how to stop Ray from hurting them, figure out what is wrong with Ozzy, find out if Rin truly is a wizard, and find some metal that is willing to hold a decent conversation with Clark, not necessarily in that order.
Thoughts:
Obert Skye is continuing his “real magic could exist� world in this next installment of the series. The story picks up a few weeks after the first one ended, with Ozzy in a more settled place. The town, including the police force, knows he exists, he has a lawyer settling out the legal bits of him being an orphan, and Ozzy is living with Sigi and her mom at their house. Yet for the boy who grew up in the woods by himself, normal was never going to last for him. Almost immediately Skye has Ozzy, Clark, and Sigi up for some maybe-magical adventure, this time with the children flying to New York City. Ozzy's character has developed through this novel, as he is no longer the naive woods boy he was, but starting to get this world, and really pushes Rin in this novel for the truth of if he truly was a wizard, or not. Sigi also gets more of a spotlight in this novel, as she helps out her friend, and begins to open up about how having an absent wizard for a father has affected her growing up. Clark and Rin, still annoying characters with little developed, and decreasing likeability as the story goes on - mostly for Clark. This story, like the last, also does not explain if magic or real, following a similar plot to the first of nothing really happening, until the end with one giant event that leaves readers, as well as Ozzy and Sigi questioning if Rin is a wizard or not. Frustrating, because on that topic this book does not explain any more than the last book did about magic, leaving the final determination for the next book, making this one seem a bit pointless. Honestly for the size of the novel, and the content you needed from it to finish the series (a bit of character growth and 3 things), this novel was kind of drawn out with not a lot of meaningful stuff going on that can have past-this-book effects on the characters. Where Skye is really pushing for this series to be a trilogy, this book suffers the fate that too many middle books feel, that it is unnecessary with only two lines of actual substance that will be relevant in the final installment of the series.
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