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Maya Mysun & the World that does not Exist
A Magical Fantasy Adventure
PM Perry
2023 Finalist
259 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th
Reviewed by Shrabastee Chakraborty for Readers' Favorite
Maya Mysun has always been interested in magic, while her twin Jack has a penchant for science. On their thirteenth birthday, after several dire warnings from unnamed sources, their parents inexplicably disappear. Tommy, Maya’s pet tortoise, turns into a strange being who transports them to a different realm. In a parallel storyline, a streetwise teen named David is taken to a facility that seems otherworldly. How will the twins find David, fight the evil forces, and bring back their parents? Maya Mysun and the World that does not Exist by P.M. Perry is a young adult fantasy novel based on two distinct but interconnected realms - the Siantia, believing in scientific logic, and the Konjiuria, delving into sorcery.
In his book, P.M. Perry has created a whole new fantastical world full of magic tricks, wizards, wraiths, genies, and strange beasts. The trio’s epic adventures take them through numerous hurdles that rigorously test their powers. As the story progresses, they unearth a diabolical conspiracy that plunges them into fierce battles. Unlike many other fantasy stories, Perry doesn’t shun the scientific and technological advances of the modern world but instead allows them to play a prominent role in the novel. Maya Mysun and the World that does not Exist imparts moral lessons to its readers, as Maya repeatedly demonstrates the power of kindness. The trio escapes impossible situations, armed with nothing but scant magical prowess and a strong bond between them. Although the story is geared toward young adults, I would also recommend this magical tale to any adults who appreciate fantasy.
Maya Mysun has always been interested in magic, while her twin Jack has a penchant for science. On their thirteenth birthday, after several dire warnings from unnamed sources, their parents inexplicably disappear. Tommy, Maya’s pet tortoise, turns into a strange being who transports them to a different realm. In a parallel storyline, a streetwise teen named David is taken to a facility that seems otherworldly. How will the twins find David, fight the evil forces, and bring back their parents? Maya Mysun and the World that does not Exist by P.M. Perry is a young adult fantasy novel based on two distinct but interconnected realms - the Siantia, believing in scientific logic, and the Konjiuria, delving into sorcery.
In his book, P.M. Perry has created a whole new fantastical world full of magic tricks, wizards, wraiths, genies, and strange beasts. The trio’s epic adventures take them through numerous hurdles that rigorously test their powers. As the story progresses, they unearth a diabolical conspiracy that plunges them into fierce battles. Unlike many other fantasy stories, Perry doesn’t shun the scientific and technological advances of the modern world but instead allows them to play a prominent role in the novel. Maya Mysun and the World that does not Exist imparts moral lessons to its readers, as Maya repeatedly demonstrates the power of kindness. The trio escapes impossible situations, armed with nothing but scant magical prowess and a strong bond between them. Although the story is geared toward young adults, I would also recommend this magical tale to any adults who appreciate fantasy.
Recommend this book:
Halley Harper, Science Girl Extraordinaire
The Friendship Experiment
Tracy Borgmeyer
2023 Bronze Medal
174 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th
Reviewed by Alex Ndirangu for Readers' Favorite
Tracy Borgmeyer's Halley Harper, Science Girl Extraordinaire: The Friendship Experiment is entertaining and inspiring. Ten-year-old Halley Harper has a great enthusiasm for science. She loves trying out new experiments with her best friend, Gracelyn. But the experiments don't always go as intended. Like last year at a Halloween party at her best friend's house, Halley's Monster Toothpaste experiment went wrong, and she had to go back home even before the party ended. Even worse, she is now forbidden from spending time with Gracelyn. Halley hopes to talk to her friend again during an upcoming summer science camp. But even there, things don't get better as Halley doesn't win at competitions (she likes to win a lot), she loses her diary, which has a treasure map, and worst of all, Gracelyn shows up with a new friend. Oh no!
Including a fun story, fascinating science experiments, and action-packed projects, Tracy Borgmeyer's Halley Harper, Science Girl Extraordinaire: The Friendship Experiment is a flavorful and informative adventure for young minds. At Camp Eureka, science meets magic tricks, broken friendships are mended, mistakes turn into crucial learning experiences, and solved mysteries become take-home gifts. It's an ever-engrossing journey to the end (I especially liked the simple-to-try experiments; The Monster Toothpaste was my favorite). Even while integrating the most technical subjects into the story, Borgmeyer applies just the right amount of details that are simple to understand and adds a bouncy feel to the big words to ensure the reader's interest. Whether you are a teacher thinking about adding new science books to the classroom library, a parent looking to inspire a love of science in your young reader or a future scientist, you can never go wrong with this book. And despite being aimed at kids, adults will enjoy it, too.
Tracy Borgmeyer's Halley Harper, Science Girl Extraordinaire: The Friendship Experiment is entertaining and inspiring. Ten-year-old Halley Harper has a great enthusiasm for science. She loves trying out new experiments with her best friend, Gracelyn. But the experiments don't always go as intended. Like last year at a Halloween party at her best friend's house, Halley's Monster Toothpaste experiment went wrong, and she had to go back home even before the party ended. Even worse, she is now forbidden from spending time with Gracelyn. Halley hopes to talk to her friend again during an upcoming summer science camp. But even there, things don't get better as Halley doesn't win at competitions (she likes to win a lot), she loses her diary, which has a treasure map, and worst of all, Gracelyn shows up with a new friend. Oh no!
Including a fun story, fascinating science experiments, and action-packed projects, Tracy Borgmeyer's Halley Harper, Science Girl Extraordinaire: The Friendship Experiment is a flavorful and informative adventure for young minds. At Camp Eureka, science meets magic tricks, broken friendships are mended, mistakes turn into crucial learning experiences, and solved mysteries become take-home gifts. It's an ever-engrossing journey to the end (I especially liked the simple-to-try experiments; The Monster Toothpaste was my favorite). Even while integrating the most technical subjects into the story, Borgmeyer applies just the right amount of details that are simple to understand and adds a bouncy feel to the big words to ensure the reader's interest. Whether you are a teacher thinking about adding new science books to the classroom library, a parent looking to inspire a love of science in your young reader or a future scientist, you can never go wrong with this book. And despite being aimed at kids, adults will enjoy it, too.
Recommend this book:
Food Fight
Linda B. Davis
2023 Bronze Medal
248 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Starting middle school can be challenging, especially if your differences make you stand out. Ben’s eating habits have been the same since he started school. Lunch consisted of a plain bagel, some pretzels, and two Hershey's Kisses. Nothing wrong with that, except everyone else has something different each day, depending on what the cafeteria offers. Now that he’s in middle school, his same lunch every day makes the new friends notice, and they’re voicing their opinions, causing a conflict between Ben and both old and new friends. Ben once enjoyed being part of an active social circle. Now he’s struggling to keep his cool and not let the teasing get him down. But a person can only take so much. Find out more in Food Fight by Linda B. Davis.
Linda B. Davis’s middle-grade novel, Food Fight, is a simple story with a powerful message about differences. Addressing the complex early teenage years, when young people are starting to test their power as they grow and mature, this story deals with the problematic issues of fitting in and bullying. The story is told in the first person narrative, from Ben’s point of view, giving us a deeper perspective of Ben’s situation and his growing unease, frustration, confusion, and anger. The plot begins on the first day of middle school and the first lunch in the cafeteria with new and old friends. Next, Davis plunges us into the social hierarchy of lunchtime antics, creating a scene that will gradually unravel as tensions build. Finally, it takes an overnight class trip to initiate more positive vibes as Ben struggles to improve his differences and stand out as a unique, strong individual. It is an excellent story for young readers, speaking to all who have suffered unfair circumstances because they’re different. But, then again, we’re all different, aren’t we?
Starting middle school can be challenging, especially if your differences make you stand out. Ben’s eating habits have been the same since he started school. Lunch consisted of a plain bagel, some pretzels, and two Hershey's Kisses. Nothing wrong with that, except everyone else has something different each day, depending on what the cafeteria offers. Now that he’s in middle school, his same lunch every day makes the new friends notice, and they’re voicing their opinions, causing a conflict between Ben and both old and new friends. Ben once enjoyed being part of an active social circle. Now he’s struggling to keep his cool and not let the teasing get him down. But a person can only take so much. Find out more in Food Fight by Linda B. Davis.
Linda B. Davis’s middle-grade novel, Food Fight, is a simple story with a powerful message about differences. Addressing the complex early teenage years, when young people are starting to test their power as they grow and mature, this story deals with the problematic issues of fitting in and bullying. The story is told in the first person narrative, from Ben’s point of view, giving us a deeper perspective of Ben’s situation and his growing unease, frustration, confusion, and anger. The plot begins on the first day of middle school and the first lunch in the cafeteria with new and old friends. Next, Davis plunges us into the social hierarchy of lunchtime antics, creating a scene that will gradually unravel as tensions build. Finally, it takes an overnight class trip to initiate more positive vibes as Ben struggles to improve his differences and stand out as a unique, strong individual. It is an excellent story for young readers, speaking to all who have suffered unfair circumstances because they’re different. But, then again, we’re all different, aren’t we?
Recommend this book:
Louie and the Dictator
Lisa Bournelis
2023 Silver Medal
64 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
Louie may have been many things but he certainly was not dumb. Louie was a highly intelligent young boy. However, there was a bully who constantly followed him at school, back home, and everywhere he went. Unlike most bullies, Louie’s bully could not be seen by anyone. Worst still, it was only Louie who could hear what his bully said. This was so hard for Louie, especially after he was threatened with harsh consequences if he did not do what the bully wanted. Louie’s parents decided to take Louie to a wizard to help him deal with the bully. Will the wizard see Louie’s bully and who exactly is the bully? Will he help Louie beat the bully? Find out more in Louie and the Dictator by Lisa Bournelis.
Lisa Bournelis does a great job creating awareness of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in her book Louie and the Dictator. This is a must-read for every kid, parent, and anyone battling OCD. Bournelis uses short and simple sentences to drive her storyline. Her choice of words served to enlighten me more about OCD. The plot of the story is relevant and perceivable. The characters are wonderfully developed, with each of their traits brought out well. I loved how the author uses introspection to highlight Louie’s struggles. This book made me understand what it feels like to live with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. The good news for anyone with OCD is that you can overcome it and that is highlighted in this excellent piece of work.
Louie may have been many things but he certainly was not dumb. Louie was a highly intelligent young boy. However, there was a bully who constantly followed him at school, back home, and everywhere he went. Unlike most bullies, Louie’s bully could not be seen by anyone. Worst still, it was only Louie who could hear what his bully said. This was so hard for Louie, especially after he was threatened with harsh consequences if he did not do what the bully wanted. Louie’s parents decided to take Louie to a wizard to help him deal with the bully. Will the wizard see Louie’s bully and who exactly is the bully? Will he help Louie beat the bully? Find out more in Louie and the Dictator by Lisa Bournelis.
Lisa Bournelis does a great job creating awareness of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in her book Louie and the Dictator. This is a must-read for every kid, parent, and anyone battling OCD. Bournelis uses short and simple sentences to drive her storyline. Her choice of words served to enlighten me more about OCD. The plot of the story is relevant and perceivable. The characters are wonderfully developed, with each of their traits brought out well. I loved how the author uses introspection to highlight Louie’s struggles. This book made me understand what it feels like to live with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. The good news for anyone with OCD is that you can overcome it and that is highlighted in this excellent piece of work.
Recommend this book:
Moraline
Cintia Alfonso Fior
2023 Gold Medal
228 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th
Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite
Moraline is alone in the forest, grieving after a cruel prank by her classmates when she encounters a scarred, magical man who tells her that the four winds of the universe are out of balance, and she must help to restore them. Although she doubts her ability at first, she discovers that she is being directed by mystical powers as she makes new friends, saves a little fox, makes a foreign student feel more welcome, and assists a friend in dealing with loss. Her positive effect on others is eventually felt not only by her friends but also by a far broader audience, including her hostile peers. Moraline by Cintia Alfonso Fior portrays a delightful little character who learns about caring for people from different backgrounds. She also gains an understanding of environmental preservation as she embarks on one compassionate expedition after another with her friends.
The book will captivate its readers with thrilling adventures and exploits, as well as rich depictions of nature and mystical characters that left me in awe. In addition to beautifully detailed physical attributes, the characters are portrayed as highly engaging and having extensive backstories, to the point that anyone would be interested in speaking with them in person. This compelling book deftly incorporates several life lessons that are best learned at a young age, such as the necessity of trying to comprehend the motivation of bullies rather than just reacting vengefully. The numerous, seamlessly woven themes span a wide range, including activism, racism, animal welfare, child labor, empathy, magic, and more. I hope that all children who can understand the principles in Moraline get to read it since it will help not just their generation but also the future of life on earth. Fantastic job, Cintia Alfonso Fior.
Moraline is alone in the forest, grieving after a cruel prank by her classmates when she encounters a scarred, magical man who tells her that the four winds of the universe are out of balance, and she must help to restore them. Although she doubts her ability at first, she discovers that she is being directed by mystical powers as she makes new friends, saves a little fox, makes a foreign student feel more welcome, and assists a friend in dealing with loss. Her positive effect on others is eventually felt not only by her friends but also by a far broader audience, including her hostile peers. Moraline by Cintia Alfonso Fior portrays a delightful little character who learns about caring for people from different backgrounds. She also gains an understanding of environmental preservation as she embarks on one compassionate expedition after another with her friends.
The book will captivate its readers with thrilling adventures and exploits, as well as rich depictions of nature and mystical characters that left me in awe. In addition to beautifully detailed physical attributes, the characters are portrayed as highly engaging and having extensive backstories, to the point that anyone would be interested in speaking with them in person. This compelling book deftly incorporates several life lessons that are best learned at a young age, such as the necessity of trying to comprehend the motivation of bullies rather than just reacting vengefully. The numerous, seamlessly woven themes span a wide range, including activism, racism, animal welfare, child labor, empathy, magic, and more. I hope that all children who can understand the principles in Moraline get to read it since it will help not just their generation but also the future of life on earth. Fantastic job, Cintia Alfonso Fior.
Recommend this book:
The Cat That Wanders by Itself
Mrs. D.
2022 Finalist
329 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th
Reviewed by Steve Leshin for Readers' Favorite
The Cat That Wanders by Itself by Mrs. D. answers the question: what if your cat could speak to you? A calico cat who goes by the name of Nyda is the answer. As told in the first-person narrative, Nyda is the only female in a litter of kittens who navigates her way with the help of her mother and brothers. She certainly lives up to the title of the book, wandering into one adventure after another, which takes her away from the safety of her mother, while learning to be an independent and confident cat in the course of time. In each chapter, Nyda faces a new challenge as she seems to get into more mischief, something any cat owner can relate to. She faces indoor and outdoor confrontations with spiders, dust, frogs, and new people, until arriving at her new family home.
While reading The Cat That Wanders by Itself, I was reminded of my own feline friend of years gone by, C.C. the Cat, a rugged male tabby, who seemed to get into more trouble with each passing day yet would always come back home where purring and an occasional brush against your leg would be his way of saying, "Hello, I’m back." Nyda tells her story well, with the help of the author, Mrs. D, of course, and the illustrations by Saima Malik are marvelous. The Cat That Wanders by Itself is a delightful tale, suitable for children and cat lovers of any age.
The Cat That Wanders by Itself by Mrs. D. answers the question: what if your cat could speak to you? A calico cat who goes by the name of Nyda is the answer. As told in the first-person narrative, Nyda is the only female in a litter of kittens who navigates her way with the help of her mother and brothers. She certainly lives up to the title of the book, wandering into one adventure after another, which takes her away from the safety of her mother, while learning to be an independent and confident cat in the course of time. In each chapter, Nyda faces a new challenge as she seems to get into more mischief, something any cat owner can relate to. She faces indoor and outdoor confrontations with spiders, dust, frogs, and new people, until arriving at her new family home.
While reading The Cat That Wanders by Itself, I was reminded of my own feline friend of years gone by, C.C. the Cat, a rugged male tabby, who seemed to get into more trouble with each passing day yet would always come back home where purring and an occasional brush against your leg would be his way of saying, "Hello, I’m back." Nyda tells her story well, with the help of the author, Mrs. D, of course, and the illustrations by Saima Malik are marvelous. The Cat That Wanders by Itself is a delightful tale, suitable for children and cat lovers of any age.
Recommend this book:
Halley Harper, Science Girl Extraordinaire
Summer Set in Motion
Tracy Borgmeyer
2022 Honorable Mention
139 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Halley Harper, Science Girl Extraordinaire: Summer Set in Motion is a children's adventure novel written by Tracy Borgmeyer. Nine-year-old Halley Harper is a science prodigy. Labeled lovingly as Miss Disaster by her parents due to her tendency to cause minor accidents like clogging up sinks with her experiments, Halley is excited at the prospect of being sent to Camp Eureka -- a science camp for kids -- with her best friend, Gracelyn. Upon arrival, Ms. Mac, the Camp Director, announced to the assembled kids that they were going to perform experiments related to Newton's Laws of Motion. Halley and Gracelyn are grouped with a boy named Nathan in Team Comet. However, someone was trying to sabotage Camp Eureka to shut it down forever. Will Halley be able to prevent that from happening?
A fun-filled adventure story with valuable lessons on science for kids, Halley Harper, Science Girl Extraordinaire: Summer Set in Motion is an absolute joy to read. The narrative follows Halley Harper, a sweet young girl who finds it difficult to fit in except in things involving science. She is a quirky character with a colorful and vibrant personality. Her spunky attitude, combined with her thirst for knowledge, makes her an immensely likable character young readers will find easy to root for. I particularly enjoyed her friendships with Gracelyn and Nathan. Author Tracy Borgmeyer also infuses the narrative with some fun ways to teach Newton's Laws of Motion that'll appeal to youngsters interested in science. This is an entertaining adventure novel for preteens.
Halley Harper, Science Girl Extraordinaire: Summer Set in Motion is a children's adventure novel written by Tracy Borgmeyer. Nine-year-old Halley Harper is a science prodigy. Labeled lovingly as Miss Disaster by her parents due to her tendency to cause minor accidents like clogging up sinks with her experiments, Halley is excited at the prospect of being sent to Camp Eureka -- a science camp for kids -- with her best friend, Gracelyn. Upon arrival, Ms. Mac, the Camp Director, announced to the assembled kids that they were going to perform experiments related to Newton's Laws of Motion. Halley and Gracelyn are grouped with a boy named Nathan in Team Comet. However, someone was trying to sabotage Camp Eureka to shut it down forever. Will Halley be able to prevent that from happening?
A fun-filled adventure story with valuable lessons on science for kids, Halley Harper, Science Girl Extraordinaire: Summer Set in Motion is an absolute joy to read. The narrative follows Halley Harper, a sweet young girl who finds it difficult to fit in except in things involving science. She is a quirky character with a colorful and vibrant personality. Her spunky attitude, combined with her thirst for knowledge, makes her an immensely likable character young readers will find easy to root for. I particularly enjoyed her friendships with Gracelyn and Nathan. Author Tracy Borgmeyer also infuses the narrative with some fun ways to teach Newton's Laws of Motion that'll appeal to youngsters interested in science. This is an entertaining adventure novel for preteens.
Recommend this book:
People of the Sun
The Eye of Ra book 3
Ben Gartner
2022 Bronze Medal
262 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
People of the Sun is the third book in The Eye of Ra series by Ben Gartner. John and Sarah's trip to their Aunt Lorraine's home in Santa Cruz, California, doesn't quite turn out the way they thought it would, as an unexpected earthquake leads to a chain of events they could've never foreseen. Their future selves pay them a visit to warn them that the world is in grave danger, and John and Sarah must travel back in time to Aztec-ruled Mexico to stop the past from changing. But maneuvering history is never easy, as John and Sarah quickly discover after being held hostage by a cruel general with nefarious motives. Additionally, the battle between the Aztecs and Hernan Cortes's men puts them all in peril.
Spy Kids meets Back to the Future. A wondrous adventure odyssey for middle graders, People of the Sun, is a treat for sci-fi lovers. Author Ben Gartner's approach to the narrative makes the time-tested premise of time travel feel refreshingly unique and innovative. Despite the non-linear narrative style and the intricacies of the plot, the story is easily accessible, and you find yourself immersed within the first couple of pages. The characters are colorful and full of life. Their vibrant personalities make them easy to root for and thoroughly enjoyable to read. John and Sarah's sibling dynamic provides the narrative thrust to the story. I had an absolute blast with People of the Sun, and I highly recommend it to preteens and young teenagers who're into sci-fi.
People of the Sun is the third book in The Eye of Ra series by Ben Gartner. John and Sarah's trip to their Aunt Lorraine's home in Santa Cruz, California, doesn't quite turn out the way they thought it would, as an unexpected earthquake leads to a chain of events they could've never foreseen. Their future selves pay them a visit to warn them that the world is in grave danger, and John and Sarah must travel back in time to Aztec-ruled Mexico to stop the past from changing. But maneuvering history is never easy, as John and Sarah quickly discover after being held hostage by a cruel general with nefarious motives. Additionally, the battle between the Aztecs and Hernan Cortes's men puts them all in peril.
Spy Kids meets Back to the Future. A wondrous adventure odyssey for middle graders, People of the Sun, is a treat for sci-fi lovers. Author Ben Gartner's approach to the narrative makes the time-tested premise of time travel feel refreshingly unique and innovative. Despite the non-linear narrative style and the intricacies of the plot, the story is easily accessible, and you find yourself immersed within the first couple of pages. The characters are colorful and full of life. Their vibrant personalities make them easy to root for and thoroughly enjoyable to read. John and Sarah's sibling dynamic provides the narrative thrust to the story. I had an absolute blast with People of the Sun, and I highly recommend it to preteens and young teenagers who're into sci-fi.
Recommend this book:
 by Leah Cupps is a gripping middle-grade novel following the main character Harley as she tries to track down a missing statue and save the world. When Harley finds one of the statues of the Three Kings of Mayan history and legend, she hopes it will make her dad see th...){kind=link}
Harley James & the Mystery of the Mayan Kings
Harley James Adventures Book 1
Leah Cupps
2022 Bronze Medal
172 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th
Reviewed by Kristen Van Kampen (Teen Reviewer) for Readers' Favorite
Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings (Harley James Adventures Book 1) by Leah Cupps is a gripping middle-grade novel following the main character Harley as she tries to track down a missing statue and save the world. When Harley finds one of the statues of the Three Kings of Mayan history and legend, she hopes it will make her dad see that she’s mature enough to explore on her own. Unfortunately, the statue is stolen before she gets the chance to tell him about it, and she soon learns that if that statue is reunited with the other two, it could result in the end of the world. Together with her friend Aly, and Deacon, a boy she’s not sure she can trust, Harley must face her fears and get the statue back before it’s too late.
With strong characters and lots of action, Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings by Leah Cupps is not to be missed. The story is filled with exciting scenes that are sure to keep the reader in suspense, such as when Harley and Aly were almost trapped inside a temple, or when they nearly go over a waterfall. The book is well written, and the first-person narrative gives the reader a chance to get to know Harley, who is a likable and brave character who readers will root for. The occasional illustrations throughout the book are well drawn and enhance the reading experience. The book would be a fun way to learn about the Maya, and I feel I gained a lot by reading it. I found myself hooked from the first page and thoroughly enjoyed the book as a whole. I would certainly recommend it.
Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings (Harley James Adventures Book 1) by Leah Cupps is a gripping middle-grade novel following the main character Harley as she tries to track down a missing statue and save the world. When Harley finds one of the statues of the Three Kings of Mayan history and legend, she hopes it will make her dad see that she’s mature enough to explore on her own. Unfortunately, the statue is stolen before she gets the chance to tell him about it, and she soon learns that if that statue is reunited with the other two, it could result in the end of the world. Together with her friend Aly, and Deacon, a boy she’s not sure she can trust, Harley must face her fears and get the statue back before it’s too late.
With strong characters and lots of action, Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings by Leah Cupps is not to be missed. The story is filled with exciting scenes that are sure to keep the reader in suspense, such as when Harley and Aly were almost trapped inside a temple, or when they nearly go over a waterfall. The book is well written, and the first-person narrative gives the reader a chance to get to know Harley, who is a likable and brave character who readers will root for. The occasional illustrations throughout the book are well drawn and enhance the reading experience. The book would be a fun way to learn about the Maya, and I feel I gained a lot by reading it. I found myself hooked from the first page and thoroughly enjoyed the book as a whole. I would certainly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Secret Magic
Evie Everyday Witch, Book 1
Elena Paige
2022 Silver Medal
167 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th
Reviewed by Marta Tandori for Readers' Favorite
Secret Magic: Evie Everyday Witch Book 1 is a charming chapter book written by Elena Paige for younger middle-grade readers. Evie Everyday is a young witch who just wants to be a lamron – that’s the word “normal” spelled backward. She enrolls in a new school and does her best to blend in with the other kids, turning her purple pet cat into a diary, her bat into a pair of glasses and hiding her corncob in her backpack. The only problem is that no one seems to wear any color except for black and everyone acts a little weird, especially Mrs. Rogers, the school principal. One minute, everyone is mean to Evie and the next minute, everyone thinks she’s just the greatest. Then there’s Izzy, a friendly girl after Evie’s own heart, who’s convinced that Evie’s a witch. Evie does her best to stay away from Izzy – even if it means hurting the other girl’s feelings – in order to keep up appearances of being “normal”. Until the unthinkable happens…her corncob starts popping corn all over the class, her glasses turn back into her bat and chaos ensues. Evie suddenly realizes that being “normal” isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be…
Evie is the perfect young protagonist. She’s quirky and charming with a bubbly personality that won’t let anything get her down. When faced with a problem, she looks for a solution yet, at the same time, she’s just like any young girl wanting to fit in with her peers, making her a very relatable figure. Her friend, Izzy, is equally likable. She embodies what it means to be a good friend, which is an important attribute to convey to young children at a time when they’re learning to develop friendships that can sometimes be fickle and turn hurtful. The narrative in Secret Magic is age-appropriate and easy to follow. Paige does a good job combining elements of magic within the storyline without letting it overpower the central theme of her story. The character of Mrs. Rogers is a little over the top but appropriate in context with the nature of the story. A likable young protagonist and a bit of hocus-pocus make for a winning combination in Secret Magic, the first Evie Everyday Witch book in what promises to be a great series.
Secret Magic: Evie Everyday Witch Book 1 is a charming chapter book written by Elena Paige for younger middle-grade readers. Evie Everyday is a young witch who just wants to be a lamron – that’s the word “normal” spelled backward. She enrolls in a new school and does her best to blend in with the other kids, turning her purple pet cat into a diary, her bat into a pair of glasses and hiding her corncob in her backpack. The only problem is that no one seems to wear any color except for black and everyone acts a little weird, especially Mrs. Rogers, the school principal. One minute, everyone is mean to Evie and the next minute, everyone thinks she’s just the greatest. Then there’s Izzy, a friendly girl after Evie’s own heart, who’s convinced that Evie’s a witch. Evie does her best to stay away from Izzy – even if it means hurting the other girl’s feelings – in order to keep up appearances of being “normal”. Until the unthinkable happens…her corncob starts popping corn all over the class, her glasses turn back into her bat and chaos ensues. Evie suddenly realizes that being “normal” isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be…
Evie is the perfect young protagonist. She’s quirky and charming with a bubbly personality that won’t let anything get her down. When faced with a problem, she looks for a solution yet, at the same time, she’s just like any young girl wanting to fit in with her peers, making her a very relatable figure. Her friend, Izzy, is equally likable. She embodies what it means to be a good friend, which is an important attribute to convey to young children at a time when they’re learning to develop friendships that can sometimes be fickle and turn hurtful. The narrative in Secret Magic is age-appropriate and easy to follow. Paige does a good job combining elements of magic within the storyline without letting it overpower the central theme of her story. The character of Mrs. Rogers is a little over the top but appropriate in context with the nature of the story. A likable young protagonist and a bit of hocus-pocus make for a winning combination in Secret Magic, the first Evie Everyday Witch book in what promises to be a great series.
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