Into the Wild Magic by Michelle Knudsen

What worked:

Lorelkey is an alternate world that bears similarities to the world readers live in. The differences aren’t a surprise, although they may make readers reconsider their favourite magical creatures. Bevvy loves unicorns, so she’s stunned when a group of them attack her and Cat. The blood-spattered muzzles and forelegs with eyes “full of malice” belie the beautiful image of unicorns in fantasy books. Bevvy has always loved dragons, but her first encounter with them in Lorelkey results in a run for her life. Giant, mothlike creatures are initially terrifying, but they become reliable forms of transportation.

Sorcerers are in a war with Lorelkey, as they seek to destroy any resistance, especially anyone with natural magic. They’ve developed a way to control the dragons, which has made them almost unstoppable. Calistine may be the last person wielding wild magic, so efforts to resist the sorcerers are becoming desperate. Cat can cast a few spells; she opened the portal into Lorelkey, but she doesn’t want to share her past with the others. However, her abilities might be invaluable toward stopping the sorcerers, which creates one of the plot’s conflicts. Plus, Calistine and her followers know there’s something unusual about Bevvy and Cat, so they’re reluctant to trust the two strangers. The distrust goes both ways, and it takes a while to overcome those feelings.

From the synopsis, readers will suspect Bevvy possesses wild magic, but she doesn’t understand what’s happening. She touches a tree in Lorelkey and senses it trying to help her escape a monster. She later asks them for protection, and they seem to respond. Bevvy’s not sure if it’s really happening, and Calistine initially says it’s impossible. The trees choose the people who receive their power, so why would they decide someone from another world is worthy? Perhaps it’s because Bevvy’s a kind, gentle soul who desperately wants friends. She cares about the well-being of the trees, and they sense her good intentions.

What didn’t work as well:

Some aspects of the plot are predictable. The fate of Cat’s mom is assumed, but readers will have a suspicion about her demise. Evil sorcerers are sent away, but readers will anticipate their return. Bevvy possesses wild magic, common sense, and a caring heart, but her influence on adults in Lorelkey is surprising.

The final verdict:

The plot is more dramatic and adventurous than readers might expect. Old prejudices are hard to overcome, but all of the tensions are mostly resolved in the end. I recommend you give this book a shot. 

The Ten Riddles of Eartha Quicksmith (Quicksmiths 1) by Loris Owen

What worked:

This book finds a middle-grade boy discovering he has a special ability. Kip learns there’s another kind of energy, like light, heat, and microwaves, called Strange Energies. There’s actually more than one kind of strange energy, and readers don’t know if Kip is more attuned to one type over another. He’s recruited to attend Quicksmiths School of Strange Energy, where he hopes to change his world. To give you an idea of the author’s creativity, Kip arrives at the school via a wormhole. He’s given a Scrambleguard by the head of security, and he talks to a Strange Supercomputer called GENI. The Scrambleguard prevents Kip from revealing any of Quicksmith’s secrets and will scramble his memories if he chooses to leave. Think of GENI like Siri or Alexa, except GENI can be accessed anywhere and verbally interacts like a living being. Mothlike drones follow each student and can change to guide them wherever they need to go.

As with other books involving characters discovering new abilities, Kip teams up with his roommate, who’s going through the same experience. Kip can envision swirls and doodles that show connections to Strange Energy, while time and clocks are Albert’s area of interest. Readers and characters don’t know exactly what the swirls mean, but there’s a sense that they have importance. Two first-year girls offer assistance, but they’re not as close as Albert. Timmi is a shy, inventive genius, so readers won’t be surprised when she produces handy creations. The traditional school bully in this book is called Thag, but he’s a senior with more knowledge and abilities than Kip. Most of Thag’s bullying is usually annoying, but one of his pranks endangers Kip’s life.

The plot focuses on clues left by Eartha Quicksmith 400 years earlier. The riddles lead to the Ark of Ideas, but no one knows exactly what that means. It’s assumed the Ark holds valuable knowledge that can help mankind, and Kip hopes it can help his mother’s health. His sister disappeared on the same day his mother was struck by lightning, and his mother’s brain was seriously affected. Kip and Albert solve several clues before everyone else, but they don’t share their findings with anyone else. They’re afraid Thag will use the information to find the Ark first and claim it for his own fame and glory. A twist is thrown in when Kip and Albert first spot a creepy face, they call it Scarface, staring at them, and they know it has evil intentions. The riddles and characters will keep readers guessing.

What didn’t work as well:

The conflict lacks tension, as the challenges to Kip and his friends primarily come from Eartha’s clues, not a definable foe. Thag and Scarface are complications, but they are consistent concerns. The plot’s resolution defines a clear antagonist that will be an issue in the book’s sequel.

The final verdict:

This book will appeal to readers who love adventures, mysteries, and puzzle-solving. Kip is a likable hero, and his friends are loyal and offer unique talents. I recommend you give this book a shot.

Dream by Barbara O'Connor

What worked:

This book is similar to its companion, Wish, as both main characters live in dysfunctional situations. This time, Idalee’s daddy left when she was five, and her mama is leaving for a tour with her band. Idalee narrates the story, and readers know how badly she wants to go along on tour. She has many ideas for country songs, but she doesn’t think any of them are any good. Idalee wants to win a contest and hear her music on the radio, but her lyrics don’t seem worthy of being chosen as the winner. Of course, her old, broken guitar makes everything sound horrible, so all she needs is to buy the expensive, blue one in a store window. That’s why discovering her grandfather’s secret treasure is so important.

Idalee knows the treasure is hidden somewhere in her house; her granddaddy didn’t trust banks, so she needs to search every room before the radio contest ends. However, her mother has rented out every bedroom to other people to make extra money. This creates a moral problem for Idalee, as she disobeys her mama’s orders. Idalee knows she’s not supposed to enter guests’ rooms, but she enlists the help of three friends to conduct a search. Readers are left to wonder if she’ll get caught, if she’ll find anything of worth, or if her efforts will be a waste of time. Readers learn a bit more about the quirky tenants while Idalee and her friends search for treasure.

There are many minor characters, but Charlie, Howard, and Odell are Idalee’s main allies. Readers will remember Howard and Charlie from Wish, and Charlie’s sister, Jackie, is also in the cast. Odell is the most interesting character, besides Idalee, as his father is renting one of the rooms. Odell is proud of his smooth-talking ability, and he uses it many times to distract others. He becomes Idalee’s confidante and loyally offers advice, encouragement, and a trustworthy ear to keep her secrets. His outgoing, energetic personality infuses liveliness into the story.

What didn’t work as well:

The synopsis and cover imply Idalee has a dog by her side, but that’s not accurate. His name is Wishbone, he’s Charlie’s dog from Wish, and he really doesn’t have much of a role in the book. It’s surprising how Odell can influence others, especially since he’s in town for such a short time. It would be nice to see him as a more permanent character.

The final verdict:

This book shares a heartfelt plot that takes place in the slow, laid-back life of a small country town. Young readers will enjoy Idalee’s big dreams and the new friends she makes along the way. Overall, I recommend you give this book a shot.

Wish by Barbara O'Connor

What worked:

The story is told through Charlie’s eyes as she navigates her troubled life. Her father got into another fight and is serving time in a correctional facility. Her mother suffers from substance abuse and isn’t coherent enough to care for Charlie or her older sister. Charlie has a lot of anger built up inside her, and she doesn’t have a filter to behave appropriately. She doesn’t do well in school and is prone to fighting with classmates. Charlie is sent to live with her aunt and uncle, and each chapter ends with her making the same wish. She uses a different ritual each time, and her new friend points out the futility since the wish has never been granted. Readers will strongly suspect what she’s wishing for, but they’re left to wonder

Charlie is dropped into a world of kindness and understanding, and she has difficulty adjusting to it. Her Uncle Gus and Aunt Bertha, her mother’s sister, are always positive and don’t overreact to her outbursts and bad behavior. They know she’s having a hard time, and Charlie usually feels guilty after treating others poorly. Howard is assigned as her Backpack Buddy to help her get accustomed to her new school. His family of boys could have been a rowdy, unruly bunch, but they’re treated with love and compassion. Charlie is surprised at how they respect their mother and at the close bond they have with each other. The idea of sitting at a dinner table, holding hands and saying grace, and eating as a family is foreign to her.

Howard is a remarkable character, as his cheerful and optimistic outlook provides a perfect contrast to Charlie's. She says he has an up-down walk, like one leg is shorter than the other, but he ignores his classmates’ teasing. Charlie’s temper causes her to say cruel things toward Howard, but he doesn’t retaliate in any way. He suggests saying “pineapple” when her emotions start to spiral, and he provides reminders throughout the story. When Charlie becomes dead-set on finding a stray dog, Howard immediately offers to help and makes encouraging comments. He’s the loyal, supportive friend Charlie desperately needs.

What didn’t work as well:

Not that there’s anything wrong with it, but the story has a strong spiritual angle. Charlie’s aunt and uncle and Howard’s family attend church every Sunday, and the kids spend time at a bible camp. The characters’ faith is the backbone of their positive personalities.

The final verdict:

The book tells a feel-good tale with a happily-ever-after ending. It teaches readers about the value of strong family relationships and good friends. I recommend you give it a try!

The Winter of the Dollhouse by Laura Amy Schlitz

What worked:

The book is written with two overlapping stories starring a young girl named Tiph and a rare, expensive, four-inch doll named Gretel. Readers should feel some empathy for Tiph, as she is the oldest child living with two younger stepsiblings. Her mother died when she was 2 ½ years old, and her stepmother has been kind to her. However, Tiph’s little brother was born with a hole in his heart, and her baby sister seems to cry all of the time. Tiph doesn’t get the attention she once received, and she feels the strain from her parents’ arguing. The family recently moved, and Tiph hasn’t made any friends at her new school. She’s feeling lonely and adrift, so meeting an old Hungarian woman may be the connection she needs. Tiph feels the conflict of being told she’s a wonderful sister, while she knows she’s done bad things and had bad thoughts. Readers will experience her stress as the struggle between reality and perceptions worsens.

Readers learn that dolls become more “alive” when kids play with them. They can’t let humans see them move, but Gretel talks to another doll named Red when no one’s around. Gretel and Red become friends, as they observe, play, and discuss their hopes of being purchased by families with kids. Red has more experience as a family toy, and she shares her stories and advice with Gretel. Gretel’s greatest desire is to be bought by Tiph, but she knows the young girl probably can’t afford the costly price tag. When Tiph steals Gretel from the store, Red and Gretel work together to find their happily ever after.

The elderly Hungarian woman, Nene Szilvia, is kind and generous, and she acts as Tiph’s moral support throughout the story. She’s recovering from stomach surgery when readers first meet her, and she appreciates the different ways Tiph helps. Tiph walks her dog and cleans the cat’s litterbox, but her greatest gift is keeping Nene Szilvia company. This connection will resonate with young readers who have close relationships with their grandparents. Tiph can talk about her problems at home and school, and Nene Szilvia is good about not passing judgment. A school play of the “Wizard of Oz” becomes the catalyst for big changes in Tiph’s life, and all of her issues come to a head as show time approaches.

What didn’t work as well:

The early part of the book feels like it develops slowly, as the author creates a foundation to build on. The story won’t appeal to all readers due to dolls and dollhouses being featured. Tiph’s family and school issues are more relatable to a wider audience.

The final verdict:

This warm, heartfelt story is full of emotions that will leave readers with a warm feeling inside. Tiph is the main character, but readers will become engrossed in Gretel’s drama, too. I recommend you give this book a chance. 

Night of the Living Toilet Paper (Alien Survival Guide 2) by Kevin Garone

What worked:

Jace (Baller One) and Nora (Space Cadet) are friends of the main character, Marv “the weirdo”. Readers need to know that Marv is obsessed with the possibility (likelihood) of UFOs and an alien invasion. Pretty much everything he sees must be connected to an alien conspiracy, and the first book convinced him that Nora and her father are aliens. Marv doesn’t believe in the paranormal because the possibility of ghosts is just crazy. The book opens with Marv witnessing a motorcycle driving by itself, so it must be driven by an alien with a personal cloaking device or using remote controls. Jace and Nora are reluctant to believe him at first, but they eventually witness things that are hard to explain. Also, Marv manages to convert a family skeptic into a believer in his rantings when the plot reaches its climax.

Book one involved slug-like creatures the kids called Sleeches, and another one returns for this adventure. However, it has abilities the kids didn’t experience last time, and a paranormal expert has been chasing them across the country. The topic of toilet paper arises from Marv’s stash that he’s hidden in his fort in case of an alien invasion. The toilet paper actually becomes animated when the Sleech takes control of it. The team is joined by another boy who is given the nickname Pyro. In addition to his infatuation with fire, his ultimate goal is to cover the school with the most epic TP attack ever. Marv and his friends usually avoid interacting with the strange kid, but they realize he has knowledge and skills they might need.

The story is told from Marv’s point of view, allowing readers to follow his unusual thinking and reasoning while inside his head. Readers will be amused when Marv looks at normal situations and translates them into alien explanations. Each chapter begins with an excerpt from the handbook, How to Survive an Alien Invasion: Your Guidebook to an Inevitable Future. These sentences are relevant to what’s happening in the story, and prepare readers for what’s to come. Some of them talk about how difficult it will be to find people willing to believe you, because it’s so hard to collect any evidence of aliens. Others relate how aliens are way more intelligent and resourceful than expected, so readers should be on their guard. Some excerpts even warn readers of dangerous encounters that will probably result in their deaths. The introduction to each chapter provides quick background knowledge to help readers connect with events in the story.

What didn’t work as well:

The book has strange things going on, which makes Marv’s imagination seem less wacky. The first book has Nora’s father working on a top-secret transporter project, so the contrast with Marv’s alien conspiracies isn’t very clear. Are the Sleeches alien lifeforms, paranormal, or something else? The humorous effect of his far-fetched perceptions of “normal” occurrences is diminished.

The final verdict:

This series is fun for young readers, and I suggest you start with the first book. Marv’s wild ideas are humorous, and the author creates a good deal of action in the adventure, especially during the climactic confrontation. Overall, I recommend you try this book for yourself.

Ocean Chase (Dungeon Runners 3) by Kieran Larwood

What worked:

This book continues the adventure of Kit, Sandy, and Thorn, as their team, called Triple Trouble, competes in the Dungeon Runners tournament. The short chapters will appeal to reluctant and emerging readers, helping the plot move quickly. Black-and-white illustrations help create mental images of the characters and setting as the story progresses through an underwater cavern. Various creatures and other dangers await the competitors, with a giant Narghoul, a huge, undead, sword-wielding monster, waiting at the end. To add drama, Kit’s nemesis and school bully is on another team, and Kit’s convinced Rook Blackheart and the Roost Raiders have been cheating in the past two competitions.

Kit is the main character, but he’s an unlikely warrior and hero. He now possesses a formidable weapon called Featherblade, but it tends to have a mind of its own. It’s just as apt to send Kit flying away as it is to help him during combat. Kit has a fear of water; he can’t swim, which is an issue when competing at the bottom of the ocean. He’s forced to wear inflatable buoys on his arms, and that doesn’t make him look any more heroic. Not to mention, one of Thorn’s healing potions turns Kit’s skin orange. However, Kit’s strategic mind comes in handy, and he displays bravery to protect others. He has a strong sense of sportsmanship, which is a rare attribute among the Dungeon Runners. Young readers will find his character charming and a very likable underdog.

What didn’t work as well:

Because of the story’s fast pace, it doesn’t go into any detail, and challenges are rapidly solved. More capable readers will find the book is finished when it feels like it should be just ramping up. The character development is happening throughout the series, so readers will need to begin with the first book to understand the characters.

The final verdict:

Readers don’t need to start from the first book in the series, but choosing to read all three episodes won’t take long. Kit and his friends are entertaining characters, and I recommend you try the series for yourself. 

A Spoonful of Spying (Alice Eclair, Spy Extraordinaire 2) by Sarah Todd Taylor

What worked:

Many young readers enjoy cooking and baking, and those skills are featured in the story. Alice proved she’s one of France’s top bakers in the first book, and this cover story for her spy persona continues. Once again, she comes up with a creative pastry to gain access to a restricted area at the World Fair. She also enlists the help of a non-spy named Eva, and she becomes an invaluable ally. Eva is modeling new dresses at the World Fair, so readers with an interest in fashion design will enjoy scenes set during the shows. Readers with a taste for history will appreciate references to the Nazi’s rise to power in Germany just a decade before World War II.

The first chapter immediately jumps into the adventure, as Alice conducts surveillance on a luxury liner. She’s teamed with an adult agent named Claude, and he offers helpful advice and support. It’s unexpected when he says she should sacrifice an objective if she needs to rescue someone. The plot breaks down into two missions; two agents have been kidnapped, and someone is trying to steal the plans for a special airplane called Daedalus. Alice is told to find leads about the missing agents, but she should ignore any thoughts of investigating Daedalus.

Alice is a precocious character, as her talents far exceed her age. She whips up all kinds of cakes, pastries, and chocolates that amaze all of the other characters. In this book, she ices chocolates to look just like the fancy designs of dresses that she’s only seen moments before. Alice is extremely confident in her baking and spying abilities, and she resents feeling disrespected. Others have low expectations of her because she’s a kid, but that only infuriates her to prove herself. Two of Alice’s strongest spy skills are observation and creativity. She notices small details others might miss, and she can quickly assess her surroundings to find unexpected ways out of sticky situations.

What didn’t work as well:

It’s surprising how unimportant the story makes Alice’s mother. Alice runs off to do her spy things with no evidence that her mother ever becomes worried. Rather than calling her Alice’s mom, the story often refers to her as Madame Éclair. She’s not a big part of the book, but the woman’s main focus is her business, not her daughter.

The final verdict:

You should read the previous book first, since it establishes Alice’s backstory as a baker. Young readers will enjoy this toned-down spy mystery, as it has limited violence and lacks the edginess of some other middle-grade spy books. Overall, I recommend you give this book and the series a try for yourself.

Alice with a Why by Anna James

What worked:

The story requires mental engagement and may remind readers of The Phantom Tollbooth. Numerous examples of wordplay fill the story as Alyce is introduced to the characters of Wonderland. Readers’ first taste of puzzlement happens when she falls into a tea party. “… Alyce with a Y.” “A why?... Do you have where or who?” There is a definite breakdown in communication, as Alyce tries to explain that she’s not the Alice who visited before. The narrator helps to form connections with the text by speaking directly to readers. These connections might, or might not, help with understanding the language and story. However, readers are often left on their own.

The major difference from Alice in Wonderland is the introduction of two conflicting characters. The Sun King and Queen of the Moon are fighting over a stolen hour, which results in sudden changes between daylight and nighttime. Characters don’t know when to sleep, because sunshine may return at any moment. Alyce is forced into the role of peacekeeper even though she struggles to navigate this strange world. She’s joined by Fox for much of her adventure, and he helps by offering moral support and suggestions. They’re told to find the Time Being, as he might have ideas for resolving the conflict.

Middle-graders who’ve read or seen the movie of Alice in Wonderland will recognize many of the characters. The Mad Hatter, Dormouse, and the Hare greet Alyce at a tea party. The Cheshire Cat offers her confusing directions. The smoking Caterpillar is busy eating pages of poetry, but he still provides Alyce with suggestions. The Three Men in a Tub help Alyce and Fox sail across water, and White Rabbit makes a brief appearance, telling Alyce she’s late.

What didn’t work as well:

Young readers might tire of the wordplay, as it’s never-ending. The playful language contributes humor, but it also creates confusion. The climax is anti-climactic, as the suspense never builds to a dramatic, defining moment. Alyce’s quest to find the Time Being doesn’t turn out as expected.

The final verdict:

Although it’s not necessary, it will be helpful if readers are familiar with Alice in Wonderland. They’ll miss the many references to the original story with that knowledge. The fairy tale format is universally engaging, and I suggest you try it out.

This Way to Happy by Alison Green Myers

What worked:

The entire Rhoades family is still feeling grief following the grandfather’s death. The death was sudden and unexpected, and Reilly has constant, painful reminders as she moves about the fairgrounds. The grandparents have run the campground and fair for fifty years, and the family has been pitching in to keep things going. The grandmother is dedicated to honoring her husband, as highlighted by the painstaking care she takes while making handmade caramel apples. Her future happiness develops into an issue. Reilly’s mother works hard to support the grandmother’s efforts, but it creates feelings of animosity.

Reilly and Nic are cousins, and they’re almost inseparable. Readers are inside Reilly’s mind, as she’s taking her grandfather’s death especially hard. Nic encourages Reilly to help her cope with hard times, especially when their mothers begin feuding. However, Alex’s introduction infuses much-needed energy into the story. His character is a whirlwind of emotions and activity, and many of the other characters find it difficult to keep up. He inspires Reilly to overcome her fears and pursue her dreams, including one last project to honor her grandfather, “The next big thing”. “Stinking thinking” is a frequently used term for complaints and small ideas.

Alex also contributes humor and additional, serious emotions to the story. His parents are divorced, and he’s spending two weeks at the campground with his mom, her boyfriend, and a new baby sister. Alex complains about his sister’s stink and crying, and he becomes angry when the boyfriend acts like a dad. Alex resents that he can’t spend more time with his real dad, as they apparently have very similar personalities. His dad used to be in a band, and Alex frequently thinks of new band names as things happen in the story. He comes up with Epic Boredom and the Pooping Baby and then breaks into air guitar. Readers never know what to expect from him. He’s self-described as “Alex. Age twelve. Male. Older brother. Cat lover. S’mores hater… I talk a lot…”

What didn’t work as well:

The conflict between Reilly’s mom and her Aunt Caroline escalates very quickly. Her grandmother’s medical emergency ignites it, but readers may not be prepared for its intensity. Readers might expect Nic to have a larger role in the story, but she leaves early on with her mom.

The final verdict:

Emotions and feelings are significant elements in the plot, as characters navigate grief, anger, and uncertainty. Alex’s infusion of energy and humor balances the seriousness of the story. Overall, I recommend you try the book for yourself.

The Door to Oldenworld (The Oldenworld Odyssey 1) by Jack Dublin

What worked:

Ace, Jack, and Macy’s grandfather will entertain readers with his quirkiness. The twins have never met him, and they’re surprised when their mother says they need to go with this motorcycle-driving man. He lives in a huge manor, located in a remote forest, and he seems to have an obsession with clocks. One room is wall-to-wall clocks! The twins aren’t sure if he has multiple locks on the basement door to keep people out or to keep something else in. The author develops a sense of mystery, as Ace doesn’t tell the twins everything he’s thinking. Readers will wonder what could cause Ace to take his grandkids into a new world full of intrigue and danger.

Jack’s character adds more mystery through his dreams. Readers aren’t quite sure if they’re images of things that happened, things that will happen, or things that are happening somewhere else. A girl in his first dream walks across the nighttime lawn and enters the surrounding woods. He might have seen a dragon sitting among the trees, and the next day, the characters find footprints in the snow and an area of flattened trees. Jack later dreams of a bone dragon, and the vision is repeated while he travels to Oldenworld. Voices in his dreams speak to Jack and use his name, and the voices seem to be encouraging him to explore further. Is he dreaming, or is someone trying to control Jack?

The twins discover their grandfather is famous in Oldenworld, although he’s been gone for fourteen years. Ace has friends there, including the king. However, the king has changed, and Ace doesn’t understand what’s happened to him. This character creates uncertainty, since no one, including readers, knows his capabilities and deviousness. However, his vanity provides a hint, plus he’s prone to being manipulated. The developments in Oldenworld mean Ace should expect old relationships to change, and it’s unclear who might be an ally. A minor character named Jasper enters the story, and it will be interesting to see how his role changes in the future.

What didn’t work as well:

There’s a scene when the twins are entering Oldenworld, and they’re attacked by flying creatures that are obsessed with feet. This strange fetish is out of place in the overall book. Readers might want more clarity regarding the twins’ father, but that will need to wait for future sequels.

The final verdict:

The early part of the book feels a little “hokie”, but it becomes a fascinating adventure once the setting switches to Oldenworld. The twins’ reaction in the new world is a blend of awe, courage, creativity, and naiveté, and they become more important as the plot progresses. Overall, I recommend you give this book and series a shot. I’m looking forward to the sequel!

A Skeleton in the Closet (The Mizzy Mysteries 1) by Claire Hatcher-Smith

What worked:

Mizzy views herself as a detective, even though she often comes to the wrong conclusions. Initially, the plot takes on a little-boy-who-cried-wolf vibe, as other family members know how she tends to exaggerate. However, Mizzy notices things that others might miss, and she’s very curious. She’s constantly looking for mysteries to solve, which means she’s ready for clues hidden in a locked wardrobe. Readers know Mizzy has Down syndrome, but they may forget that fact as the story unfolds. Down syndrome causes her poor spelling, but she still follows the process of identifying suspects, collecting clues, and considering suspects’ motives. The story is told from Mizzy’s point of view, so readers understand that she feels underappreciated and wants to prove herself to her family.

Great Aunt Jane’s death might, or might not, be an actual mystery, as everyone seems to agree she died in her sleep. Her diary says she had important news to reveal at a family gathering, but she never got the chance. The last diary entry, torn from the book, says she might have been poisoned, but there’s still a possibility Mizzy is jumping to conclusions, again. Clues are hard to find since Great Aunt Jane passed away in 1973. The only suspects are family members, but why would any of them want to commit murder?

What didn’t work as well:

The mystery is restricted due to the age of the case, the few suspects, and the limited motives. Mizzy doesn’t have any special detective training, and she makes investigative mistakes along the way. Her persistence and determination are key character traits, but readers may think she lucks into solving the mystery.

The final verdict:

There aren’t many books featuring characters with Down syndrome, and Mizzy highlights her independence and capabilities. The last fourth of the story is full of developments, as new information is revealed. The story may be more about family relationships than mystery, but I suggest you try it out for yourself. 

Tinker Bell: An Enchanters Tale (The Enchanters 2) by Jen Calonita

What worked:

Readers should know Never Land is much different from stories about Peter Pan and Captain Hook. The mystery surrounding Never Land’s diminishing magic becomes the main conflict. This book is an origin story for Peter Pan, since readers will notice references to familiar elements. A pirate ship is anchored off the Never Land coast with Smee being its first mate; Captain Hook is not in the story. Tinker Bell is the main character, which is different from the Peter Pan book and movie. Peter lives in an orphanage where he’s the leader of younger orphans whose families have died or abandoned them. They call themselves the Lost Orphan Boys.

The prologue introduces Tinker Bell, and readers learn she’s a feisty, strong-willed fairy. We slowly discover that Tink is feeling guilty for visiting the Mainland, since bad things begin happening when she returns from Never Land. She is a member of a small band of characters calling themselves the Wanderers, because they believe they can explore anywhere without restrictions, free to do what they want, when they want. Ash is another fairy who’d like to be more than Tink’s friend. Blair is a mermaid, and she often projects a superior air, though she complains that traveling by water around the island is much slower than cutting across on foot. Mimic is a shapeshifter who can transform into any shape he wants, and he usually appears as a human, teasing Blair whenever he can. The Wanderers are joined by Tiger Lily, an indigenous person, and Caiman, probably the most unpirate-like pirate there could be.

Trees are dying from the inside out, food is becoming scarce, the song of Prism Falls is out of key, and creatures are fleeing the Never Sea. Saving his mother’s plants is the most important thing to Caiman, but he says a flower found in a forbidden area may be the key to saving the island. However, something happens to him, and shadow creatures begin to appear. Tink fears he’s dying, so she makes a rash decision that may, or may not, make things better. She knows Mainlanders aren’t supposed to enter Never Lan, especially since the presence of the pirates has disrupted the peace. Lives are at stake, and she makes another risky choice that affects future events.

What didn’t work as well:

Readers know little about the Wanderers, even though the book opens by featuring them. They almost feel like strangers when Tink reunites with them later on. Also, the infatuation between Tink and James, an orderly at the orphanage, seems strange. This aspect of the book must be why Amazon suggests it’s for young adults, not middle grade. There’s a small amount of violence, which is not graphic.

The final verdict:

There’s no reason upper middle-graders can’t enjoy this book, despite Amazon indicating it’s for ages twelve and older. It’s an entertaining version of the Peter Pan story, with the focus being on Tinker Bell. I recommend you check this book out for yourself.