Ransom Riggs returns to the world of peculiars with new characters and setting

     Fans of Ransom Riggs’s young adult fantasy series, Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children Series, have long awaited for the next installment. In the fifth novel, The Conference of the Birds, readers continue to follow Jacob’s journey to not only figuring out his place in the peculiar world, but also figuring out his family history that’s tied to the peculiar world.
      With his dying words, H, Jacob Portman's final connection to his grandfather Abe's secret life, entrusts Jacob with a mission: Deliver newly contacted peculiar Noor Pradesh to an operative known only as V. Noor is being hunted. She is the subject of an ancient prophecy, one that foretells a looming apocalypse. Saving Noor means saving the future of all peculiardom. With only a few bewildering clues to follow, Jacob must figure out how to find V, the most enigmatic, and most powerful, of Abe's former associates. But V is in hiding and she never, ever, wants to be found. With enemies behind him and the unknown ahead, Jacob Portman's story continues as he takes a brave leap forward further into the world of the peculiar.
      Like the rest of the series, Riggs uses one-of-a-kind, vintage photos that work in harmony with the text of the book. The way the photographs are used and incorporated into the story bring the novel to life in a unique way. Riggs continues to engage readers in the peculiar world by being so descriptive in his settings and characters. He also weaves together a wonderful plot that keeps you wondering what’s going to happen next.
      While this wasn’t my favorite novel in the series, I found myself completely reengaged in the peculiar world and the wonderful cast of characters Riggs has created over the past few years. Jacob’s eagerness to find out more about his grandfather and the loyalty he has to his friends is endearing and makes the story that much more enjoyable. The gang’s travels across America and different time periods definitely keeps the story interesting and adventurous.
​     Those who are familiar with the series will definitely enjoy returning to the world of peculiars. With the cliffhanger ending from Riggs, you can bet that I will be anticipating the release of the next book in the series! I can’t wait to see what other adventures Jacob and the rest of the peculiar gang get involved in next!

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