The Trolley to Yesterday

Johnny, Fergie and Professor Childermass leave their native New England far behind when they ride an old trolley back in time to 15th-century Constantinople. The Professor dreams of saving the ancient city's citizens from slaughter at the hands of the Turks. Johnny and Fergie are more concerned with simply keeping their crotchety old friend out of trouble. Among the companions' adventures are an encounter with the ghosts of long-dead Crusaders, the opportunity to outwit a would-be Inquisitor, a run-in with another 20th-century time-traveler and the chance to explore Constantinople's supernaturally guarded reservoir. Finally, with the help of Brewster, a sarcastic, talkative statue who claims to be a god of Egypt, Professor Childermass does what he can to change the course of history. Though some readers may find themselves homesick for the eccentric New England setting of Johnny's earlier adventures, Bellairs's vision of Constantinople is as spooky as it is exotic. Crackling dialogue adds extra zip to the companions' already spine-tingling adventures. Ages 10-up. (May)