The Tiltersmith by Amy Herrick

What worked:

The book immediately draws interest, as the characters question if winter will ever end. Edward’s aunt produces pancakes for breakfast by ringing a bell at the moment of the spring solstice, so an element of magic is introduced. Edward and Feenix are the first characters to notice something is off, as they constantly forget objects they’ve found. Edward collects a cigar-shaped cocoon but doesn’t remember putting it in a terrarium on his top bookshelf. Feenix finds two ball-shaped objects in the park but doesn’t recall them or the strange boy with green hair. Memories pop up at times, but then Edward and Feenix can’t remember them later. Two other friends also have the huge problem of unexplained forgetfulness.

The backdrop of the plot is global warming and climate change. The science teacher is forced to discuss the causes when Feenix continually asks what will happen if spring never arrives. He shares information about the earth’s tilting axis and how pollution is putting holes in the polar vortexes. However, it’s clear the causes go beyond scientific explanations, and the group of four friends will need to do something about them. The story speaks to how humans need to change their ways if we ever hope to save the planet.

The Tiltersmith is the antagonist, and the author makes his character secretive and mystical. He seems pleasant enough, but he obviously has some kind of hidden agenda. He pops up at the most inopportune times, and the four main characters realize he’s spying on them. He wants something from them, but their lapses in memory complicate the situation. Feenix can’t remember what she did with the balls, and the kids forget the Tiltersmith’s strange “attacks” moments after they’ve occurred. The end result is readers will root for the students while not fully understanding the Tiltersmith’s plans. The only clear thing is he has something to do with the lingering winter season.

What didn’t work as well:

Magical and mysterious things are happening, but it’s not clear how or why they’re happening. The objects have special powers, but is there a reason why these four kids were chosen to find them? Why does the green-haired boy say the girls will remember better if they kiss him, and then they turn him down? Edward has a theory about his aunt’s identity, but it’s never confirmed. The questions don’t have an impact on the story, but they’re a little annoying.

The Final Verdict:

A twist on the myth of Persephone. The author crafts an intriguing tale of our environmental crisis by blending science, storytelling, and engaging characters. The book shares an important message regarding our future, and I recommend you give it a shot.