Baldacci to write fantasy novel for young adults

NEW YORK (AP) - David Baldacci has decided to enter the fantasy world.

The best-selling thriller writer has a deal with Scholastic Inc. for a young adult novel, "The Finisher." Scholastic, a top children's publisher, announced Monday that the book is scheduled to come out in March.

Baldacci's book will feature 14-year-old Vega Jane and the frightening secrets of her native village of Wormwood.

Baldacci, the author of popular thrillers such as "Absolute Power," has written for young people before. He recently contributed the final book, "Day of Doom," for the Scholastic multimedia series "The 39 Clues."