Rise of Pegasus (School for Magical Monsters #1)

Shenanigans ensue as mythical creatures attend school for the first time in this cozy chapter book series launch by collaborators Holub and Williams (the Little Goddess Girls series). Young Pegasus is excited for his first day at the School for Magical Monsters, where each student will discover their inherent magical power and learn how to control it. More than that, he’s looking forward to making new friends. Once he arrives, Pegasus meets a courageous boy named Zeus as well as myriad other mythical creatures like himself, including Griffin, Minotaur, Hippocampus, Cyclops, and Sphinx. When the class is divided into groups, Pegasus takes the lead on their magical drawing assignment—but Pegasus’s idea doesn’t go according to plan, leading to personal disappointment and internal shame. Still, Pegasus continues to encounter surprising obstacles and adventures, eventually discovering his own innate power—and netting himself a trusted companion. Engaging language combines with elements of Greek mythology to present a lighthearted, charming story of self-discovery, new experiences, and open-mindedness. U.K. illustrator Allen’s softly lined art depicts Pegasus’s adventures throughout. Includes a glossary, discussion questions, and an author’s note. Ages 5–8. (July)