In the Middle Ages title, the kids revisit the travel agency to fulfill Josh's wish of becoming a knight. As the children are whisked back in time, they learn about the contrasts between the lives of the peasants and the nobility. When the kids experience not one, but two misfortunes (they find themselves in the middle of a siege and their guidebook is stolen), they take matters into their own hands in order to save the castle and to retrieve the guidebook from one of their attackers so they can get back home.

      The books' format is very successful for a number of reasons. Colourful comics with short dialogue will appeal to reluctant readers, and yet there is a considerable amount of information in the guidebook section at the bottom of each page. As well, the books can be read in a variety of ways--readers can choose to read only the fictional part from start to finish; they can read just the guidebook; or, they can read the story and then the accompanying information in the guidebook on each page as they go along. In fact, reading the parts separately, then, later, together, reinforces understanding of the information provided and allows for enjoyment on two levels.

      Bailey presents both the story and the non-fictional guidebook in a familiar style that employs kids' language and a large dose of humour. She cleverly leaves the door open for more adventures of the Binkertons because each time the kids return a volume to the travel agency, the text hints that this will not be their last visit. The comic illustrations suit the text well, echoing its humour with small details that readers will notice with each subsequent reading of the book. A single page at the back provides additional information about the historical time period featured.

      A unique and successful concept and an enjoyable read.

Recommended.