Nosewise is back for another adventure, protecting his human pack of Merlin, Morgana and Arthur.  This sequel picks up the tale of how Nosewise pulled Excalibur from the Stone.   While this should designate Nosewise as King, no one is quite ready to recognize a dog as ruler, even if he can speak and cast spells.  In this next installment, the group learns that Lady Nivian, a powerful fae who has been their ally, has died. Merlin is convinced that if they can get word to the Otherworld, the fae region, there will be some way to bring her back to the living.  The Otherworld knows where the Holy Grail is hidden and this is the key to saving Nivian. The quest is dangerous but all are determined and willing to battle against nasty worm sprites, dream spells and power hungry fae Queen Mab, who is currently in possession of the Holy Grail.  Nosewise and his humans get separated, lost to each other in a horrible dream state, but Nosewise is courageous and resourceful, gathering them all together with the help of a farm girl, a dragon and a fae wolf pack. While the story concludes with a happy ending (Nivian is saved!), the plot seems to imply that there is more story to tell in an upcoming sequel.  The story has countless action and is told from the point of view of a dog which will appeal to many elementary school readers. Nosewise is loyal and brave and makes for a very memorable main character. For readers familiar with the legend of the Sword and the Stone, reading this book as a stand-alone could work. Otherwise, purchasing the first book in the series is a necessity.

Reviewed by Suzanne Dix, Westbrook Middle School, Westbrook