The Books of Magic Series Bible
The Books of Magic is a captivating fantasy series set on Grimoire Island, blending elements of action, adventure, school stories, teen drama, and supernatural and horror tales. The heart of the series lies within Grimoire Academy of Applied Knowledge, a prestigious seven-year school that caters to exceptional students with diverse talents, including magic, combat skills, insatiable curiosity, a thirst for adventure, luck manipulation, and other unique abilities. Students typically enter the academy at 12 years old as first-year students and progress through to age 18 as seventh-year students, with postgraduate and advanced courses available for those gifted in magic.
Grimoire Academy of Applied Knowledge is no ordinary school. Designed exclusively for students with both overt and covert talents, the academy prepares its pupils for unconventional careers on the fringes of society, specializing in the supernatural and rare professions such as interdimensional travelers or specialized mercenaries with unique abilities. The faculty consists of eccentric teachers unlike any found in traditional education, some of whom are not even human. Located on an island in the South Pacific that serves as a fragment of the Darkworld, a realm of pure magic thrust into Earth's dimension as a gateway for a Hellish invasion, the school's original mission was to prevent a demonic onslaught that could have ravaged five parallel Earths had it not been thwarted in time.
Within the confines of the Clock Room lies a network of portals that grant our characters unparalleled access to traverse through time, space, and dimensions. Functioning as a versatile teleporter, interdimensional transporter, and time machine all in one, these portals serve as gateways to limitless storytelling possibilities. Students and teachers at Grimoire Academy find themselves embarking on thrilling adventures across diverse settings, from dueling Musketeers to sailing with the infamous Black Pirate or venturing into the Wild West.
The school itself serves as a hub for narratives centered around academic pursuits, unsolved mysteries, and chilling ghost stories. As our characters navigate these fantastical realms, they must rely on their wit, resourcefulness, and intellect to extricate themselves from perilous situations independently. However, when challenges escalate beyond their control, the enigmatic Mr. Gallowglass – alongside potential assistance from fellow teachers or students – possesses the ability to intervene and rescue them from impending danger just in time.
Themes:
Role: Headmaster of Grimoire Academy
Universe of origin: Earth-1
Background:
Orphaned at a tender age, Gareth Gallowglass was blessed with extraordinary psionic abilities that granted him mastery over matter manipulation. Dubbed Gary the Miracle Boy, he served as the youthful companion to the Sentinels of Magic – a group of adventurers renowned for their diverse range of supernatural and technological talents. Tragically, Gallowglass was the sole survivor when the Sentinels sacrificed themselves to thwart a Hellish invasion threatening the world.
Inheriting ownership of Grim Island following the heroic sacrifice, Gallowglass utilized his burgeoning psionic powers to earn the moniker “Master of the Impossible.” He valiantly defended the island against numerous subsequent Hellish incursions. Upon the suggestion of magicians and the heroic Captain Marvel, Grim Island was repurposed into Grimoire Island, with Gallowglass overseeing its transformation into a school dedicated to training exceptional individuals in magic and defense against otherworldly threats.
Initially serving as caretaker while others held the title of headmaster for four decades, Gallowglass was acknowledged as the true Lord of Grimoire Island. By the mid-1980s, he embraced his destiny as the school's preeminent headmaster. Despite his intense and troubled demeanor, Gallowglass possesses profound wisdom and demonstrates acts of remarkable kindness amidst his abrasive exterior. Whenever things get too out of hand for others to handle, Mr. Gallowglass will always show up in time to put an end to a threat against the island or its inhabitants.
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Role: The Chosen One
Universe of origin: Earth-1
Background:
Timothy Hunter, a young prodigy in the world of magic, discovers his innate talent at the tender age of 12. Destined to become one of the greatest mages in existence, Timothy's initial forays into spellcasting are marked by accidental and simplistic manifestations. With time and practice, he hones his abilities to manipulate ice effortlessly and even brings inanimate objects to life, such as transforming his yo-yo into a living owl.
As a first-year student at Grimoire Academy, Timothy forms a close bond with Rick Billings, his steadfast companion. By his second year, he expands his circle of friends to include Patsy Ambrose and Nalla the Satyr. Additionally, Timothy befriends older students Joshua Cantrell, Kirk Pike, Alfred “Twitch” Twitchell, and Gray Murphy, uniting with them to establish the new Sentinels of Magic – a group inspired by their predecessors. Timothy crafts enchanted armor for the team that can be summoned or dismissed through magical means. Tim's magical armor resembles that of a wizard's robe of night sky blue emblazoned with stylized yellow stars.
Despite his leadership potential and unwavering loyalty, Timothy faces ridicule from older peers due to his youth and lack of experience. He often finds himself at odds with the tight-knit group of friends but perseveres nonetheless. While academically gifted, Timothy struggles with sports due to clumsiness and battles distractions that hinder his studies.
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Role: Keeper of the Clock Tower
Universe of origin: Earth-1
Background:
Simon Belmont is an enigmatic figure with a mysterious past, concealing his true age behind a facade of old age. Despite his outward appearance of frailty, Belmont possesses remarkable agility, strength, and combat prowess when facing supernatural adversaries. As the final descendant of the renowned Belmont clan of vampire hunters, he wields the legendary Belmont whip – an alchemically forged weapon empowered by centuries-old blood, capable of vanquishing any otherworldly foe, particularly vampires.
Preferring solitude within the confines of his clock tower residence, Belmont rarely ventures outside unless compelled by threats to his loved ones or family. A widower haunted by tragedy, his wife Julia fell victim to Dracula's mesmerizing abilities, resulting in the birth of Christopher Drake – a dhampyr, or half-vampire. Despite Christopher's lineage, Belmont raised him as his own son and trained him to follow in the family legacy as a vampire hunter. However, Christopher ultimately abandoned the Belmont name to pursue necromancy, leading to a rift between them.
The unresolved conflict culminated in a fierce battle that ended in a stalemate before Christopher vanished from Belmont's life. Years later, their paths cross again when Christopher resurfaces as the Arcane Lore teacher at Grimoire Academy. Simon's gruff and terse demeanor belies a compassionate nature that compels him to aid those in need, even as he grapples with past grievances and uncertainties surrounding his estranged stepson.
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Role: Tim Hunter's Best Friend
Universe of origin: Earth-2
Background:
Rick Billings is a devoted companion to Tim Hunter, distinguished by his fiery red hair. Known for his tendency to speak before thinking and inadvertently saying the wrong things, Rick exudes a more extroverted nature compared to Tim, effortlessly forming connections with others. Despite possessing average intelligence and lacking any apparent exceptional talents, Rick remains unperturbed by his presence at Grimoire Academy, confident that the reasons for his enrollment will eventually reveal themselves.
Prone to succumbing to temptation, Rick often requires Tim's guidance to steer clear of trouble. Nevertheless, he harbors a kind-hearted disposition and endeavors to uplift Tim during moments of despondency. Rick excels in sports and willingly imparts tips to Tim in an effort to improve his athletic abilities. However, he frequently becomes a target for older bullies at school, necessitating the intervention of allies to defend him from harassment.
Rick's lineage traces back to his great-grandfather, Edgar Billings – an inmate at Arkham Asylum in the 1930s. Notably, Edgar transformed an old lamp into a train lantern, which miraculously cured him of his insanity. This same lantern later came into possession of Alan Scott, enabling him to assume the mantle of Green Lantern.
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Kirk Pike
Role: Unstoppable Fighter and Tracker
Universe of origin: Earth-X
Background: Kirk Pike, aged 14 in 1987, is a formidable combatant driven by an unwavering determination to emerge victorious in any confrontation. Possessing a natural inclination for gaining the upper hand in conflicts, Kirk is renowned at Grimoire Academy as the school's premier runner and one of its most accomplished athletes. His insatiable thirst for knowledge extends to martial arts, with Kirk adeptly absorbing techniques by observing experts on television.
A skilled tracker known among his peers as “Bloodhound,” Kirk's relentless pursuit earned him this moniker. With dark hair and a robust physique, he dons metallic armor magically bestowed upon him by Tim Hunter, patriotically themed in red, white, and blue with a striking red eagle emblem. Kirk exudes seriousness and intolerance for frivolity, displaying limited patience for younger students but respecting those who match his pace. He is the leader of his group dubbed the Sentinels of Magic, inspired by the legendary team memorialized in Memorial Park statues.
Joshua Cantrell
Role: Hero in Training
Universe of origin: Earth-S
Background: Joshua Cantrell, aged 14 in 1987, embodies an insatiable curiosity that propels him into daring adventures and unforeseen predicaments. Driven by an unyielding pursuit of mysteries, Josh's impulsive nature often leads to trouble but serves as a catalyst for captivating narratives. Despite occasional thoughtlessness and moments of unkindness when embarrassed, Joshua redeems himself through acts of kindness and generosity.
An ardent admirer of Captain Marvel, Joshua discovered the transformative incantation “Kami Nomi Kai,” enabling him to enhance his physical attributes significantly. His metallic armor mirrors Captain Marvel's iconic attire with distinctive variations, featuring a red suit adorned with yellow accents and a sash alongside a white and yellow cape bearing an upward-pointing lightning bolt.
Alfred “Twitch” Twitchell
Role: The Luckiest Boy at School
Universe of origin: Earth-2
Background: Known affectionately as Twitch among his peers, Alfred Twitchell, aged 14 in 1987, stands out as an eccentric figure characterized by his peculiar demeanor and unconventional attire – a formal suit and tie that mirror his metallic armor. Despite his short stature and plump build, Twitch exudes an air of caution stemming from his remarkable streak of good luck.
Coasting through life on the wings of fortune, Twitch's reluctance to exert effort contrasts with the challenges he encounters at Grimoire Academy, where his teachers are keenly aware of his fortuitous trait.
Gray Murphy
Role: The Jinx
Universe of origin: Earth-4
Background: Gray Murphy, aged 14 in 1987, embodies misfortune personified – a harbinger of bad luck capable (perhaps unwittingly) of jinxing adversaries or individuals he disfavors. Pessimistic by nature, Gray clings to Murphy's Law while grappling with the unintended consequences of his jinxing abilities.
Despite his penchant for causing chaos inadvertently, Gray harbors a genuine desire to protect others from harm. Sporting unnaturally gray hair reminiscent of his namesake color, Gray's penchant for sports contrasts with his lackluster athletic prowess. Prone to verbal missteps and controversial remarks, Gray navigates social interactions cautiously due to the repercussions of his jinxing tendencies reflected in his all-black metallic armor adorned with a black cat helmet.
Patsy Ambrose
Aged 13 in 1987.
Universe of origin: unknown
Naala the Satyr
Universe of origin: Gemworld, Earth-1
Gareth Gallowglass (headmaster)
Universe of origin: Earth-1
Simon Belmont (keeper of the Clock Tower)
Universe of origin: Earth-1
Abby Cable (former teacher)
Universe of origin: Earth-1
Miss Eve (teacher)
Universe of origin: Earth-1
Rose Psychic (teacher)
Universe of origin: Earth-2
Baron Weirwulf (teacher)
Universe of origin: Earth-4
Mr. Bones (teacher)
Universe of origin: Earth-4
Johnny Peril (teacher)
Universe of origin: Earth-1
Emma Peel (teacher)
Universe of origin: Earth-X
Martin and Lily Martine (teachers)
Universe of origin: Earth-S
Christopher Drake (teacher)
Universe of origin: Earth-1
Ramphastos (teacher)
Universe of origin: Feithera, Earth-2
Racquel Reynolds (teacher)
Universe of origin: unknown
Dr. Marisa Mortale (teacher, physician)
Universe of origin: unknown
Adam Frankenstein (groundskeeper, teacher)
Universe of origin: Earth-1 or Earth-4
Liberty (school agent, student recruiter)
Cain and Abel (caretakers, ferrymen)
Lucien (librarian)
Universe of origin: Earth-1
Colin Pennyworth (administrative assistant to the headmaster)
Universe of origin: Earth-1 or Earth-2
Administration Building
Student Dormitories
For student housing. Nommo Hall also boasts extra classrooms and meeting rooms for specialized advanced teaching in magic, mostly for the Homo Magi people.
Gardens and natural areas
Contains natural areas set up by Mr. Gallowglass for various and temporary purposes, such as an area resembling the swamps of Louisiana for teacher Abby Cable when she was at the school.
Teachers' Bungalows
Housing for most of the faculty, located on a cliffside overlooking the beach.
Clock Tower
A grand stone tower three stories high, located in a glade. Simon Belmont resides there.
Map House
Located along the path in the trees to the left of the glade where the Clock Tower resides.
Bestiary
A private zoo spanning many acres, containing huge enclosures for all types of mythical creatures, keeping species separate from each other. Adam Frankenstein resides there.
Memorial Park
The quietest location on the island, separated by a short hedge, featuring park benches for contemplation and meetings. Seven statues of the original Sentinels of Justice overlook the park, seemingly watching all visitors.
Sports Stadium
For several types of school sports, most notably soccer.
Canyon and river
Students must be able to navigate the treacherous waters as part of their final exams each year.
This is not meant to be an exhaustive list of appearances, but only the main canon of the Books of Magic series.
The Books of Magic: Orientation Day
School is back in session for another year at the Grimoire Academy of Applied Knowledge, and the first thing on the agenda is a tour for the benefit of all newcomers. As a new instructor, Abby Cable acquaints herself with Grimoire Island, wondering if she's made the right decision to uproot her life in Louisiana after the disappearance of the Swamp Thing more than a year ago. Meanwhile, young Timothy Hunter makes a friend in a boy named Rick Billings on his first day at the academy, but will they be split up into different houses?
The Books of Magic: Curiosity Kills
Joshua Cantrell has found a blueprint of the administration building at the Grimoire Academy and wants to know what is concealed in a secret room, while Timothy Hunter decides to follow him there. But will this day of infamy or Mr. Gallowglass be the death of these two students? Guest starring the Phantom Stranger!
The Books of Magic: Ride a Black Horse
Timothy Hunter finds himself increasingly fascinated by the black horse near the Bestiary, but is there a hidden reason that explains why he is so captivated by the animal? Meanwhile, a visitor tries to find the island in search of Abby Cable after returning to Earth from the far reaches of outer space! Will his message reach its target, or will it go undelivered? Guest starring Adam Strange and J'onn J'onzz, the Martian Manhunter!
The Books of Magic: Rise of the Bloody Moon
When an old enemy pays Simon Belmont a visit, Vlad the Impaler's bid for power can only be stopped by the keeper of Grimoire Academy's Clock Tower and Abby Cable. But can an old man and a young woman possibly stop the King of the Vampires himself, or does this day mark the beginning of Dracula's reign over five Earths? Meanwhile, Timothy Hunter despairs over his inability to work magic at will. Could he have been sent to this school by mistake?
The Books of Magic: Fever of Death
A strange plant has been found on the shores of Grimoire Island. Could it be behind a rash of rage-induced insanity? Meanwhile, Gallowglass discovers that Abby Cable has left the island against his wishes. Will it take the Grimoire Academy headmaster's first departure from the island in nearly forty years to bring her back? And when he finds her, will she ever want to come back?
The Books of Magic: Changeling Unmasked
The Grimoire Academy of Applied Knowledge comes under attack when a demon disguised as a student begins subduing the teachers one by one, beginning with Abby Cable! With the headmaster unavailable, it's left up to Timothy Hunter and his friends to take on the foe themselves using their talents, but are these brave young students up to the task? Meanwhile, Rose Psychic and Simon Belmont confront the evil holding Belmont's niece in a monstrous realm! Guest starring Shazam and Captain Marvel!
The Books of Magic: The Mysterious Student
As Timothy Hunter returns for his second year at the Grimoire Academy of Applied Knowledge, he makes a new friend in Naala the satyr and a new enemy in Devin Burgess. But as he navigates his first few classes with new teachers Christopher Drake and Ramphastos the Feitheran, he also encounters a mystery! Who is the mysterious student in black, and why is Tim the only one who seems to notice him?
The Books of Magic: The Spirit World
In their second week of school, Timothy Hunter and his friends at the Grimoire Academy of Applied Knowledge begin learning all about the spirit world. In the process, they also discover their fellow students’ prejudices when Devin Burgess begins a humans-only campaign to make Naala the satyr feel unwelcome at school! Featuring a field trip to the dimension of Waypoint, where myths and legends converge, and destiny is decided!