I’ve never been a fan of fantasy, for whatever reason, wizards and magic don’t do anything for me. However, when these stories are mixed with adventure, suspense, action and even a bit of comedy, I’m instantly glued to the pages – hungry for more.

Daniel Fox and the Jester’s Legacy is the story of a boy who dies and goes to the underworld. A world which is surprisingly like the one we live in today, but with fantastic creatures and a sinister undertone. As Daniel spends more time in the underworld, know as Arison, he begins to feel a great sense of purpose to his arrival. He must find what he is destined to do, and he must find it fast.

The book was written by sixteen year old Andy Peterson who was born in Chicago but now lives in Johannesburg. Peterson is Penguin – South Africa’s youngest author ever published. And why should he wait? His brilliant imagination and great sense of timing has this young author ready to compete with experienced authors across the country.

Not only is his first work easy reading, it’s a very original look at the afterlife and beyond. Peterson has managed to incorporate many themes into the story, giving this fantasy adventure a unique texture. From the pressures of having everything to the harsh world of thieves the story throws Daniel about the underworld. He’s left with just his wits to overcome great challenges far beyond his years.

Forgetting the amazing age of the author, this book is a must read for young fantasy lovers and even those who are looking to be engulfed by a world of adventure.