He is one of many youngsters selected to undergo the test to gain entry to the Magisterium, where young mages are trained in the use of magic.
Call's father has always insisted the Magisterium and magic should be avoided because they killed Call's mother.
Call's plan to fail the Iron Trial is thwarted, however, as he is chosen to be an apprentice to the high-ranking Master Rufus.
With two other apprentices, Call begins his training in magic apprehensively at first, then with a sense of frustration as they are set the seemingly pointless task of sorting a pile of sand grains into their matching shades.
This is the first of five books.
Ages 13+.