book cover of The Story of Gumluck and the Portrait Thief
 

The Story of Gumluck and the Portrait Thief

(2026)
(The fourth book in the Gumluck the Wizard series)
A novel by

 
 
The story of Gumluck continues! Dive into the artfully funny fourth installation in the critically acclaimed chapter book series from New York Times bestselling author Adam Rex.



The queen's portrait has been stolen from the museum. Who took it? The terrible troll? The prideful prince? The raiding raccoon? Gumluck the Wizard, his faithful friend Helvetica the Raven, her three clever chicks, and Butterscotch, the little ghost who haunts Gumluck's hair, are on the case.

Gumluck is a wonderful wizard, but sometimes he spoils his spells―like when he tries to make a painting but ends up making a monster by mistake!―and that spells trouble. Will Gumluck and his friends catch the thief? There's only one way to find out.

With delightful illustrations and a lighthearted mix of fantasy and fairytale elements, this madcap romp celebrates the artist in each of us as everyone's favorite bumbling noodlehead does his best to save the day.



JUST RIGHT FOR NEW READERS: With simple sentences, engaging illustrations, and big themes explored with humor and heart, this series is the perfect choice for newly independent readers who love magical tales.

STARRED REVIEWS: The Gumluck series is a hit with kids and critics alike! The first book,
The Story of Gumluck the Wizard, has received five starred reviews:

  • "Adorable."―Shelf Awareness, starred review

    "Readers will fall in love with [Gumluck]."'''School Library Journal, starred review 

    "Silly and heartfelt."―Publishers Weekly, starred review

    "[A] spellbinding read."―Booklist, starred review

    "Here's a tale to treasure."―Kirkus Reviews, starred review 


    FAVORITE AUTHOR: Adam Rex is an acclaimed
    New York Times bestselling children's book creator and winner of countless state list awards. He is known for his funny and smart stories, including On Account of the Gum, Frankenstein Makes a Sandwich, School's First Day of School, and many more. The Gumluck books, his first chapter book series, are zany capers with heart and humor across every page.



    Perfect for:

    • Fans of Adam Rex

      Parents and grandparents seeking a funny early chapter book series

      Teachers and librarians looking for engaging fantasy and magic books for emerging readers

      Anyone looking for fun-filled fantasy chapter books

      Readers who enjoy Chris Colfer's A Tale of Magic series, the Unicorn Academy series, and Magic Tree House books


      Genre: Children's Fiction



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