More Precious Than Rubies

Paul Brager is twelve when his father tells the story of Iduna and her apples. Mr. Brager always tells stories before bed to entertain Pauls little brother, Adriana ritual that has become even more important since their mother died. Iduna was a goddess who grew apples that made the gods younger and stronger, but one day she disappeared, along with her apples. Paul doesnt think much of the myth; he has other things on his mind.

Paul and his best friend, Chad Tremblay, are excited to start the school year as seventh graders at Dorian Heights Public School. Even when they hear about the new principal, Mr. Theisen, they arent worried about ending up in his office. When Paul finally meets the principal, however, he finds him to be strange, mysterious, and extremely fond of apples. Thats when things start going wrong.

Theisen develops an uncomfortable interest in Paul, claiming he once knew Pauls father. It becomes apparent to Paul and Chad that Theisen is after something, maybe some kind of treasureand it involves the Brager family. Paul believes his family must be protected and that Theisen must be stopped. Still, he cant get the story of Idunas apples out of his head; there seems to be an odd connection to the tale his father told. He and Chad want to know the answers, but learning them may put their lives in danger.