The Alchemist's Portrait

Deborah Dowson is a Canadian children’s librarian living in Powell,
Ohio.

On a class trip to the art museum, Matthew becomes intrigued by a
17th-century Dutch portrait of a young boy named Peter Glimmer. Matthew
learns that there is some mystery surrounding the painting that involves
alchemy and magic. Apparently there is some truth to the story, because
he finds himself whisked into the portrait by Peter, whose evil uncle,
an alchemist, cast the spell that placed Peter in the painting.
Matthew’s adventure takes him through a time portal into the past on a
mission that requires him to bring back a special book of spells for
Peter to use to prevent his uncle from attaining immortality and
dominating the world. Matthew’s time travels take him through the
danger and drama of several historic revolutions until finally he is
returned to the present and the evil uncle is destroyed.

The Alchemist’s Portrait is a fantasy-action story of comic-book
proportions. The villain is larger than life and willing to do anything
to achieve his goal to rule the world. The young hero seems no match for
the evil sorcerer’s great power and skill, but with quick wit, a
little luck, and some help from his friends he is able to thwart
disaster. Despite all the destruction and mayhem, life is wonderfully
returned to normal at the end. The plot does seem a little cumbersome in
spots, but all in all it is a fun and action-filled romp through a world
of art, history, magic, and make-believe. Recommended.