This first series is quite appropriate for younger children with plenty of illustrations. Every book features a problem for the local people which must be resolved by Tom and Elenna, with their trusty horse and wolf. Tom does have a sword but in this book he doesn't kill anything, putting the magic sword to good use in other ways.A mountain dwelling giant has been driven mad by the imposition of a blindfold by an evil wizard. The damage he is doing causes earthquakes and landslides. How many fantasy stories do you see using the landscape and natural disasters as a challenge? This is a great way for young readers to learn and they can relate the disasters to television news. Each of the stories is set in a different environment. They are all very exciting and encourage both helping others and thinking your way through a problem.The kids will love the good quality collector cards in the back of these books. If buying secondhand do try to get books with the cards.This is an unbiased review.