Wizardology: The Book of the Secrets of Merlin (Ologies) [Hardcover]

Master Merlin (Author), Dugald A. Steer (Editor), Dugald Steer (Author)

Book Description

Age Level: 8 and up | Grade Level: 3 and up | Series: Ologies

Aspiring wizards can tune in to the age-old wisdom of Merlin with this dazzling compendium of all things magical — unveiling novelty elements throughout.


For any apprentice determined to learn the arcane arts of wizardry, could there be a better teacher than . . . Merlin himself? Originally discovered in 1588, this remarkable text by history's most respected wizard is revealed to the world for the very first time. Lavishly illustrated by four delicate artists, WIZARDOLOGY's intricate design even conceals a series of hidden symbols that spell out a secret message when their code is deciphered — if the reader is clever enough to find them.

Among WIZARDOLOGY's special features are:

-a glittering crystal ball-like jewel on the front cover
- a world map showing locations of wizards around the globe
- tactile samples of a "fairy flag" with one wish remaining and a phoenix feather to aid in flying charms
- booklets explaining the proper use of spells, familiars, and potions
- a removable dragon pendant allowing the user to dowse for mythical beasts
- a pack of eight removable fortune-tellling cards
- a 48-page mini book of divination on the final spread

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist

Gr. 5--8. "A WARNING: Wizardology is not a subject to be pottered with. Heed the example of Dr. Faustus . . ." So opens this timely, elaborately packaged companion to Dragonology (2003). Students of the magical arts courageous enough to read on will find eye-opening disquisitions on wizardly garb and wands, types of spells, the care and feeding of familiars, uses for gryphon earwax and other substances, plus picture galleries of magical beasts and renowned wizards. In addition, there are pull tabs with "magical" effects, attached booklets, a phoenix's feather, a scrap of Fairy Flag, and more--all sandwiched between "crystal" gems embedded in the front and rear covers. Four illustrators contribute elaborately detailed creatures, symbols, and views of a wizard's workshop to this surprisingly sturdy production. Be bold. John Peters
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

From the Publisher

WIZARDOLOGY, A Book of the Secrets of Merlin, is a remarkable new find for devotees of the bestselling DRAGONOLOGY and EGYPTOLOGY and Apprentices seeking the Power of Wizards for Good Purpose. WIZARDOLOGY offers valuable spells, charms, recipes, arcane wisdom, and even helpful tips: "For the chasing away of boils, buboes, pustules and unsightly lumps.." But, Apprentices, beware and take heed: "Wizardology is not a subject to be pottered with. Heed the example of Dr. Faustus, who made an ill-advised pact with a rather nasty spirit. He got everything he wanted but had to pay with his soul."

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 8 and up
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Candlewick; First edition (September 13, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0763628956
• ISBN-13: 978-0763628956
• Product Dimensions: 12 x 9.7 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (71 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #38,129 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #9 in Books > Children's Books > Literature & Fiction > Historical Fiction > Exploration & Discoveries
  • #16 in Books > Children's Books > Science, Nature & How It Works > Mystery & Wonders

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

36 of 38 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing! Fantastic!, September 26, 2005

By 

J. R. "lovingjeremyrenner" (Federal Way, WA USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Wizardology: The Book of the Secrets of Merlin (Ologies) (Hardcover)

I am a 24 y/o woman but I enjoy reading about mythology, magic and the like. I saw this book at Borders and I just had to pick it up. I don't know what the cover is made from, but the material is soft and screams for you to touch it. Inside the book, I was amazed at how well crafted it is. The thought behind it was genious.

It is portrayed in a manner that the book was created by Merlin from magic, and passed on to the reader, so that the reader may carry on where Merlin left off. All throughout the pages are little flaps and openings, so it is completely interactive. The artwork is amazing and the colors are well thought out. The pages look like old parchment, many drawings are penciled.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Adults will find it enchanting and fun. Children will be able to let their imaginations run wild. I am a Christian, but I gave this to my own children. I helped them to understand the difference between fiction and fantasy, so they can enjoy this book fully without being confused.

I recommend this book! Go to the library and peek it over if you have doubts. You will not be disappointed. I also recommend the other 2 book in the "Ologies" series. Dragnology and Egyptology. Both are written the same way.

26 of 27 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars another brilliant work from candlewick and templar, September 14, 2005

A Kid's Review

This review is from: Wizardology: The Book of the Secrets of Merlin (Ologies) (Hardcover)

From the makers of Dragonology,Egyptology and Dragonology Handbook comes another excellent book from candlewick press and templar publishing. This book claims to be written by the great wizard himself Merlin Ambrosius. It was written about 500 years ago (or claims to be). It is in a category that the writers at candlewick have created what I call realistic fiction. What the book is is fictional information created into a nonfictional form. It sort of resembles a reference book but there is something different about it that most will enjoy. It is loaded with little flaps and books to open. Some are miniature booklets about spells,familiars(wizards animal companion), and potion ingredients. Some are samples of material like fairy flag or phoenix feather. And then there is the miscellaneous items like a pack of fortunetelling cards,a mini-book written by a harpier(a wizards name for an owl) and much more. I guarantee you if you are a fan of the other ology books or just want to believe in the unbelievable buy this book right now.

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Even for real mages and witches..., February 28, 2007

By 

matthew bennett (USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Wizardology: The Book of the Secrets of Merlin (Ologies) (Hardcover)

This is a solid, entertaining read. The short, concise chapters are an enjoyable read filled with myth, fantasy, humor, and just enough real facts to make it all sound credible. The book itself is a beautiful thing. Large though it is, it's great to look at. And besides, the book name-drops Agrippa. Any childern's book that can namedrop him is cool to me.

The many pullouts, notes, and trinkets are also worth the 20 bucks alone.

As I said, you could be a follower of Buckland, RavenWolf, Dee, Barrett, Mathers, Melville, Agrippa, and even if you still have that child-like spark, Crowley himself and find something to enjoy in this volume. I did.