So You Want to Be a Wizard by Diane Duane

This is not a new book. In fact it has been around long enough it can almost be called a classic, and I thought it was about time that I finally read it. Nita is a book worm, a misfit and a frequent victim of a neighborhood bully. One day while hiding from the bully in the public library, she comes across a book titled, "So You Want to Be a Wizard." As she starts to read, she begins to wonder if it is not a joke. Then she meets Kit, who also has a copy of the book. Together they are catapulted into a harrowing adventure where trees and cars can talk, and they meet the universe's most deadly force. There are two really nice things about this book. One is that the magic system is unusual and interesting. The other is the friendship relationship that develops between Nita and Kit as they gradually learn to use their powers and overcome their fears. It is the first in a long series, I think 7 at the last count. I have heard (from Benjamin who has read them all) that they get darker as the series progresses. This book has a satisfying enough ending that is does work as a stand alone. (369 p)