Take one part Harry Potter, another part The Chronicles of Narnia, plus some new parts all the author’s own, season them liberally with adult themes — these are definitely not books for children — and you have this most readable, imaginative pair from author Grossman. Quentin Coldwater passes the entrance exam for Brakebills magic college and learns to master the art thereof, while also learning that “Fillory,” the fantasy world of his favorite book series as a child, is real. But there are demons within and without, and the life of magic and adventure isn’t always a happy one. Recommended for audiences who don’t mind seeing the dark side; make sure to read book one, The Magicians, first. The Magician King is definitely a sequel.