barbaramoraispaula

I actually really liked this book. It's not quite as fascinating as the Fablehaven series, but it's a great example of tight middlegrade writing. The great thing about young adult books, esp. middlegrade, is that they shouldn't wander off onto tangents. Everything written is essential to the plot. And this plot is very intricate in a way that you almost have to read twice, but is still accessible to an 11 year old. I was blown away by the end of this book and I want to slap my forehead and say "Of course!", but honestly I would have never guessed it. I really appreciate books for young readers that don't pander, but really try to stretch people to think harder and read better. We have all read young adult books that are just fluff and don't push you to grow, but how great are those books that do push and still captivate interest? I recommend this book to anyone who comes in contact with 11 year olds or stays in touch with their 11 year old self.

2022-11-14 16:33