Will Archie Stringweed find the courage to battle an ancient family curse?

Archie is sure that the wind talks to him. It seems to creep up behind him and blow him along the pavement; to drape itself around his shoulders and screech in his ear. And things get even stranger as his tenth birthday approaches. A strange ball of green light hovers by his bed. Later, the postman arrives with a present from his long-lost uncle Rufus, a mysterious gold coin. That night, a mythical icegull appears at his bedroom window, carrying yet another strange coin. What does it all mean? When Uncle Rufus unexpectedly arrives on the Stringweeds' doorstep, Archie finally learns the truth . . . he is about to fall under the curse that he must break if he is to restore the courage and honor of his family. Starring an eccentric cast of characters, and a bright red airplane named Monika, this original tale of adventure and magic will enchant readers of all ages.
Reviews"The fantasy atmosphere is well defined, with intriguing characters and imaginative magical elements. Comparison to J. K. Rowling's "Harry Potter" series is inevitable. Like Harry, Archie possesses hereditary magic and is threatened by a potent and malevolent enemy. Both stories have British settings, cultural details, and dialects. However, Morrison emphasizes the power of family bonds as well as individual bravery. An original and challenging fantasy." -School Library Journal "The characterizations are appealing, and Archie is thoroughly likeable. Both his efforts to muster the courage he needs and the exciting action that lead to a rousing battle against the one who set the curse on the family will delight fantasy fans." -Booklist "The message of bravery comes through without sounding didactic. Archie is a likeable boy who both craves and fears adventure, a dilemma that many readers will understand. His struggle to find his courage and break the curse for his father's sake will also resonate."-VOYA "With plenty of mystery and adventure and some rather humorous moments, Wind T