Goblins on the Prowl

More than 20 years after Coville introduced readers to the enchanted realm of Nilbog in Goblins in the Castle (1992), he returns with the story of Fauna, who lives in the forest near Toad-in-a-Cage castle and who has a big secret. When her cabin is invaded by goblins looking for a magical object, Fauna is thrust into a decades-old battle between good and evil that threatens the life of her friend William and sends her and a motley band of heroes on a wild adventure to save him. Coville's imagination runs brilliantly amok, with memorable characters like the lovable, speech-impeded Bwoonhiwda ("I just have a w pwobwem.... This has caused many pwobwems in my wife") and Bonecracker John ("With ears as big as mine, I can hear a cricket fart"). The pages are filled with lively and unpredictable escapades, wondrously magical settings, and heroes who, despite their otherworldly abilities, are flawed and relatable. If Coville plans to revisit Nilbog in the future, readers can only hope they don't have to wait another two decades. Ages 8%E2%80%9312. Agent: Barry Goldblatt, Barry Goldblatt Literary. (June)