In a new small format, this highly illustrated, enchanting journey through the history and traditions of wizardry takes readers from Merlin to Gandalf, and offers practical spells to tryThe story of magic and its famous practitioners is told in thisenchanting compendium of magical lore.It exploresthe secrets of ancient sorcerers, the practices of medieval alchemists, and the rituals of modern magicians; and itreveals how lucky talismans work, suggests tools for successful spell-casting, and resolves the riddles that surround sacred sites and ceremonial magic. Along the way it introduces the most remarkable wizards in history and fiction, from the evil sorceress Circeto Professor Dumbledore. Specially commissioned paintings by Robert Ingpen, as well as works by artists such as Bosch and Goya, Arthur Rackham's atmospheric book illustrations, medieval woodcuts, and extraordinary engravings of arcana are all featured.Beautifullybound with specially paddedcovers, thisis the perfect gift for fantasy fans and budding alchemists young and old."

"Shazaam! Create fabulous illusions and perform magic tricks just like a long line of wizards, magicians, and conjurors have done throughout the years. I'm a 600-year-old wizard, and I want to share my magical secrets with you, my chosen apprentice. Are you ready to make the impossible possible?" -- page 4 of cover.

“Fans of all that is wizardly will love this one.”—School Library Journal. “Lavishly illustrated throughout...the first of its kind, a fabulous fantasy and a how-to crafts book in one.”—Hobby Merchandiser.

For young fans of wizardry everywhere, this exciting series of six books will follow the adventures of the wizard apprentice as he takes on the forces of darkness and learns more about his growing powers. Ages 8+.

From the author of How to Train Your Dragon: Two young heroes fight to save their beloved homes in the next thrilling installment of the internationally bestselling Wizards of Once series. Xar and Wish are heroes with a huge task ahead -- confronting the Nuckalavee is not for the fainthearted. But with Magic and Iron together, they might just have a chance of saving their beloved homes from those who seek to destroy everything they hold dear. The third electrifying book in The Wizards of Once series fizzes with magic and introduces us to a host of glorious new characters: bears and piskies and magical pins and needles to name but a few. Beloved bestselling author Cressida Cowell once again brings her trademark wit and stunning combination of action, adventure, humor, and incredible artwork to this epic new adventure, sure to transport and enchant readers. Stunningly written, magnificent in scope, hilarious and thrilling, Knock Three Times immerses you in a world you won't ever wish to leave.

Fantasy story featuring the rivalry of two wizards.

A mysterious library book opens the door to a world of magic and danger in the first book in the beloved Young Wizards series. Bullied by her classmates, Nita Callahan is miserable at school. So when she finds a mysterious book in the library that promises her the chance to become a wizard, she jumps at the opportunity to escape her unhappy reality. But taking the Wizard's Oath is no easy thing, and Nita soon finds herself paired with fellow wizard-in-training Kit Rodriguez on a dangerous mission. The only way to become a full wizard is to face the Lone Power, the being that created death and is the mortal enemy of all wizards. As Nita and Kit battle their way through a deadly alternate version of New York controlled by the Lone Power, they must rely on each other and their newfound wizarding skills to survive--and save the world from the Lone One's grasp.