The Genie of Sutton Place

The Genie of Sutton Place follows 13-year-old Timothy Farr, who lives in New York City with his dog Sam until his father's unexpected death in an archaeological accident. After moving in with his aunt in Sutton Place, Timothy discovers an ancient genie and must navigate the complexities of having access to supernatural powers. The story centers on Timothy's efforts to save his beloved dog Sam from being sent to the pound, using both the genie's abilities and his father's journal as guides. Set against the backdrop of Manhattan's elite Sutton Place neighborhood, the novel combines elements of fantasy with real-world challenges. The novel incorporates themes of loss, friendship, and the responsible use of power, while exploring what happens when supernatural forces intersect with everyday life in modern New York City.

Many readers note this is a lesser-known book compared to Selden's Cricket in Times Square series but describe it as charming and magical. Adult readers recall enjoying it as children and appreciate its themes of friendship and responsibility. Readers liked: - The blend of New York City setting with fantasy elements - Complex character development of both Sam and the genie - Humor throughout the story - Handling of serious topics in an age-appropriate way Common criticisms: - Slow pacing in middle sections - Some dated cultural references - Limited availability of the book in print Ratings: Goodreads: 4.13/5 (123 ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (11 ratings) Reader quotes: "A perfect mix of magic and reality" - Goodreads reviewer "This book stayed with me for decades" - Amazon reviewer "The ending feels rushed compared to the careful buildup" - Goodreads reviewer

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🌟 George Selden, the author, also wrote the beloved children's classic "The Cricket in Times Square," which won the Newbery Honor in 1961. 🌟 Sutton Place, where the story is set, is a historic district in Manhattan known for its opulent townhouses and prominent residents, including members of the Vanderbilt and Morgan families. 🌟 The concept of genies (or djinn) originates from pre-Islamic Arabian mythology, where they were considered powerful supernatural creatures made of smokeless fire. 🌟 The book was published in 1973, during a period when New York City was experiencing significant social and economic challenges, providing a stark contrast to the magical elements in the story. 🌟 The novel's exploration of power and its consequences draws parallels to classic genie stories like "Aladdin," while uniquely setting these themes in modern urban America.