The Keepers

The Keepers is the first book in a middle-grade fantasy series centered around 12-year-old Horace F. Andrews. After spotting a sign from a bus window, Horace discovers the House of Answers, a mysterious store filled with objects that possess strange powers. Horace acquires a pair of glasses that allow him to see into other dimensions and soon meets April, a girl with a box that lets her track memories. Together they learn about the existence of Keepers - people who protect and wield powerful objects called Tan'ji - and find themselves caught in a conflict between opposing forces seeking control of these items. This novel combines science fiction and fantasy elements as Horace and April navigate both their normal middle school lives and their new roles as potential Keepers. The story features parallel dimensions, scientific principles, and magical objects while building tension through chase sequences and confrontations. The book explores themes of choice, responsibility, and the ways power can be used for good or ill. Through Horace's journey from ordinary student to someone who must make significant decisions, the story examines how young people handle newfound abilities and determine their own path.

Readers appreciate the complex world-building, science-fiction elements, and puzzle-solving aspects. Many note the book's similarity to Harry Potter but with a science focus instead of magic. Parents mention it engages kids ages 9-13 who enjoy mysteries and scientific concepts. Specific praise focuses on the detailed character development and the bond between siblings Horace and Chloe. Multiple reviews highlight the originality of objects with special powers being based on scientific principles rather than spells. Common criticisms include a slow start, complex vocabulary for the target age group, and plot threads that take too long to connect. Some readers found the 544-page length excessive for middle-grade fiction. Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (89 reviews) Barnes & Noble: 4/5 (42 reviews) "A fresh take on magical objects that actually teaches kids about science" - Common Sense Media "Too much setup before the action begins" - School Library Journal

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🔷 The Keepers is the first book in Ted Sanders' fantasy series "The Keepers Trilogy," which follows middle schooler Horace F. Andrews as he discovers a world of magical objects. 🔷 Author Ted Sanders is also an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois, teaching creative writing while pursuing his own career as a novelist. 🔷 The magical objects in the book, called "Tan'ji," each grant specific powers to their keepers based on natural forces like time, sound, and light. 🔷 The book's main character, Horace, discovers his powers through a mysterious box that allows him to bend light and create illusions. 🔷 The story incorporates elements of science into its magic system, blending physics concepts with fantasy elements to create a unique approach to magical world-building.