There was once a magical arcade in Melbourne, full of books and life and imagination and lollies and monkeys. Most of the arcade has been gone for nearly 100 years now, except for a piece of it at the museum, and in one other, truly special place – brought so cleverly back into existence in the pages of Amelia Mellor’s books.

The Lost Book of Magic is the final of these magical arcade books. It takes the reader back to 1895, a time of drought and struggle in Melbourne, when the shine of the gold rush years has worn off and even the grandest bookshop in the world is struggling to keep its doors open. Desperate to help, one of the owner’s daughters will do anything to save her beloved home, even if it means allowing the most wicked magician imaginable back into their lives. Her brother Vally and her father’s old apprentice Mr Pyke must join forces to stop the terrifying Obscurosmith once again, this time for good.

This is a stunning conclusion to a favourite series of middle grade books, full of enchantment, history and unforgettable characters. For ages 10+.