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arayofreading's review against another edition
4.0
*4 stars*
This was so delightful!
This contemporary fantasy reimagines our world if magic was derived from music, and I loved getting to see the details of how everything worked. What type of music was better for which type of magic, what went into playing a spell and learning them to begin with, how things of our modern world would have been adapted to utilize musicraft. The magical school setting did not disappoint either.
The characters and plot were nothing really original, but were executed really well. There were lovable characters I could root for, conflicts that were understandable, and friendships that were wholesome. A big theme of the book is imposter syndrome, and trying to prove yourself to others, and I found I could really empathize with the characters emotions and motivations. The story is quite predictable, but the way the journey is written just made for a charming experience that I highly enjoyed.
(Also definitely check out the audiobook because the music is spectacular!)
This was so delightful!
This contemporary fantasy reimagines our world if magic was derived from music, and I loved getting to see the details of how everything worked. What type of music was better for which type of magic, what went into playing a spell and learning them to begin with, how things of our modern world would have been adapted to utilize musicraft. The magical school setting did not disappoint either.
The characters and plot were nothing really original, but were executed really well. There were lovable characters I could root for, conflicts that were understandable, and friendships that were wholesome. A big theme of the book is imposter syndrome, and trying to prove yourself to others, and I found I could really empathize with the characters emotions and motivations. The story is quite predictable, but the way the journey is written just made for a charming experience that I highly enjoyed.
(Also definitely check out the audiobook because the music is spectacular!)
madsmreads's review
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
doesitcomeinabook's review against another edition
4.0
A very cute story, made all the more fun when listened to with all the pieces referenced.
kiira_lorestan's review
adventurous
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
bereblanco's review
adventurous
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
greenkangaroolibrarian's review against another edition
5.0
I listened to this book and it was fantastic. Not only was the plot engaging and the characters real, but the addition of the music from the New Jersey Youth Symphony Orchestra really brought the book to life. I have already recommend this books to others and would love to read more based in this world of modern magic.
ezismythical's review
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
kshilvock's review against another edition
5.0
Highly recommend! Especially as an audiobook; it's the coolest audiobook I've ever read. While this is for more middle aged kids, much like Harry Potter, every age can enjoy this. A really inventive idea, I loved this plot so much, and it's inspired me to get back into playing music again! Music, magic, mystery, girl power, all things a true book and music nerd will love. The audiobook version has the music mentioned in the book playing in the background by a youth symphony orchestra. I'm hoping for a sequel!
magik_the_cat's review against another edition
5.0
It's been awhile since I've read to anything mid grade but this was a delightful listen! I loved the world building and the way musical instruments made music. There were bits of songs played when it was relevant and mostly it was quiet and in the background so as not to take away from the narration (there was one particularly loud bit but it was all part of the story). I forget how hopeful MG books are and even when it's in its darkest moments there is still hope. Its a funny heartwarming story about figuring out your place in the world. If there is ever a sequel I will definitely take a listen
opal16's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.75