THE VANQUISHERS

A middle schooler and her friends spring into action when their new friend goes missing in Bayron’s middle-grade series opener.

Malika “Boog” Wilson and friends Cedrick and Jules are students at Victor Garcia Middle School. They’re looking forward to Vanquisher Appreciation Week, a celebration of the defeat of the last hive of vampires. However, Boog’s parents are among the few who still take precautions against a vampire return, something that embarrasses her. When Aaron, a new student from Colorado, moves to their neighborhood, the three friends open their circle to include him. The sixth graders become suspicious of Mr. Rupert, the new guidance counselor, who seems to be overly interested in their little group. Then a fun school fundraising event at the Royal Roller Rink takes a dramatic turn when Aaron disappears from the venue. As days go by with no word, fears increase that something ominous has occurred—and Boog suspects Mr. Rupert knows more than he’s letting on. The search for Aaron ultimately reveals how much Boog’s folks were involved the last time vampires were a threat to their community. This warm, witty friendship story with a healthy dose of vampire adventure is a page-turning read. The main cast of characters is cued as Black and Latine; Jules uses they/them pronouns, and Cedrick has two dads.

A lively, appealing addition to the genre.