The first in a new epic sci-fi series, perfect for fans of Orson Scott Card's "Ender" books or Philip Pullman's "His Dark Materials" Introducing the first young adult novel from crime fiction writer Adrian McKinty, whose adult books have been called "unputdownable" ("Washington Post"), "exceptional" ("San Francisco Chronicle"), and "profoundly satisfying" ("Booklist"). When Jamie's mother inherits a small island, and moves her little family from Harlem to Ireland, her troubled son sees a chance to start over, far away from the bullies and the pitying stares. Cancer has left Jamie without an arm or the will to speak. But Muck Island offers more than solitude and sea views. Jamie learns that he is heir to an ancient title, Laird of Muck, Guardian of the Passage, and certain otherworldly responsibilities. With the help of a mysterious object he discovers in the island's old lighthouse, Jamie sets out on a dangerous mission that will change the course of his life, and possibly the universe, forever. Tautly paced and brilliantly imagined, this novel will thrill sci-fi fans eager for new heroes and new worlds to explore.