Magyk

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death, emotional abuse, and child abuse.

Boy 412 and his allies’ conflict with DomDaniel’s forces depicts the struggle between good and evil. This is a prevalent theme in fantasy and is reflected in the story’s cast of characters, from the kindhearted lost princess to the “awful old Necromancer” (144). The battle between good and evil also impacts the novel’s mood and structure. The main plot focuses on the two sides’ struggle for control over the Castle and possession of the Akhu Amulet, a power that can decide the kingdom’s fate. The wickedness of DomDaniel and his followers raises the story’s stakes and adds suspense to scenes like the Darke Wizard’s pursuit of the children: “Silhouetted against the lightning, still far away but with its sails flying in the howling wind, the huge Darke ship was cutting through the waves and heading toward the cottage. The Vengeance was coming” (470). The struggle between good and evil shapes the middle grade fantasy adventure.

Sage advances the theme by giving strongly opposing traits to characters on either side of this struggle. For example, the Hunter proves his ruthlessness when he orders his men to set fire to Sally’s business while she’s trapped inside: “‘Nail the door shut!’ he shouted angrily.