The Amulet of Samarkand
by Jonathan Stroud · The Bartimaeus Trilogy, Book 1 series · Grade 5-8 · Ages Ages 10-14
Nathaniel is a young magician’s apprentice in a London ruled by powerful magicians. When he secretly summons a clever djinni named Bartimaeus to help him get revenge, the two are pulled into a dangerous mystery involving a stolen magical amulet.
Key vocabulary
A small object worn or carried because people believe it has magical power or protects them.
A magical spirit, often very old and powerful, that can be summoned by magicians in the story.
A person who learns a skill or job from a more experienced teacher.
To call someone or something to come, especially using magic in this story.
In this book, a person trained to use spells and control magical beings.
A special star-shaped magical symbol used in rituals in the story.
Playfully naughty or tricky, like someone who enjoys causing a little trouble.
Saying the opposite of what you mean, often in a sharp or teasing way.