Richards, Justin. The chaos code.

RICHARDS, Justin. The chaos code. Read by John Lee. 8 cds. 9.5 hrs. Listening Library, Random House Audio. 2007. 978-0-7393-6171-9. $55.00. Vinyl; plot, author, reader notes. JS

When Matt Stribling meets his mother at the train station for his school vacation, he expects to spend it with

her. Instead, she needs to leave for one of her computer jobs, and she sends him to his absent-minded archeologist father. Matt is not surprised to find his father missing and the place in a terrible mess, even worse than usual. As computer savvy as his mother and used to finding clues to treasure with his dad, Matt soon unravels the mysterious communication left behind, which is directed to his Aunt Jane who works for millionaire Julius Venture. Matt finds more mystery and intrigue: golems, the lost city of Atlantis, the lost treasure of St. John, longevity-enriched friends, and the villainous Atticus Harper, his father's employer. Harper can manipulate the elements of earth, air, fire, and water to bring about catastrophic events and he is determined to find the keys to creating enough villainy to rule the world. Sometimes the story is farfetched, but it's great fun, and fans of Anthony Horowitz's Alex Rider novels will love it. Lee's deep, rich, commanding voice makes the incredible credible. He is adept at creating a lighter tone for the females without strain and at maintaining pace and suspense. Mary Purucker, Beverly Hills PL, Beverly Hills, CA

J--Recommended for junior high school students. The contents are of particular interest to young adolescents and their teachers.

S--Recommended for senior high school students.