Reviews

Showing Off by Emily Jenkins, Sarah Mlynowski, Lauren Myracle

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avellana's review against another edition

5.0

absolutely loving how this series is progressing. i felt so seen with the way they tackle the parallel of disability/neurodivergence to upside down magic i almost cried. i hope everyone reads this. and i hope they get a tv show or movie that follows more of the books plot rather than making up their own

auscaz's review

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adventurous lighthearted fast-paced

4.0

katymul's review against another edition

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adventurous hopeful lighthearted fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

I continue to be impressed by this series, the way it is tidy and even spare but accomplishes so much in terms of world-building, character development for a huge cast of characters, and just fun with wacky magic. The push toward radical self-acceptance gets stronger with each entry, but I appreciate the fact that the character development includes setbacks and shows how complicated it is to change something long-ingrained.

Also, player piano Bax! My favorite "wonky" magic yet!

thebookgiraffe's review against another edition

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4.0

I am such a fan of this series. There are diverse elements included in this that don't feel like they were there just to tick boxes which is wonderful (if you're looking for some middle grade for #diversitybingo2017 or just in general the main character is African-American, one of her classmates is Hispanic, and another classmate has a hearing aid). I really love how this series is about appreciating differences and understanding that you should nurture children's individual learning styles. I love the teacher and how bold she in in shutting down people's negativity and teaching her students that they are smart and creative and unlimited. I'm so glad I stumbled upon this series and I can't wait for the next book :)

momloves2read's review against another edition

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funny inspiring lighthearted 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? No

4.0

mckenzierichardson's review against another edition

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5.0

For more reviews, check out my blog: Craft-Cycle

Another awesome adventure at Dunwiddle Magic School. While this is the third book in the series, there is enough backtracking and explanation of what happened in the previous books that it could be read alone. However, the first two books are just as engaging and fun so I'd still recommend reading them first to get the full experience.

This book continues with Nory's story (figuring out friendship, family dynamics, and the extent of her own powers) as well as following Pepper. Much of this focuses on Pepper coping with her fiercing abilities and learning that there just may be a positive angle to her powers. I've really liked how each book so far has given a look at an additional character to get a better understanding of what they're going through and how their view of their magic changes.

In this one, each class at Dunwiddle gets the option to perform in the Show Off, a talent show for students to showcase their magic. The UDM class plans to compete but must figure out whether they want to show the rest of the school their Upside-Down Magic or try to fit in with everyone else. Great messages about how important it is to have diverse experiences, abilities, and interests. I've really loved how this series treats UDM as something just as valid as the more traditional forms of magic, in a way that is still entertaining and fun to read. This message can easily be extended to more reality-based differences.

Such a great series. Can't wait to read the fourth book.