k_k2023's review against another edition
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
4.0
lissajean7's review against another edition
5.0
Loved it when I read it for myself. Loved it again as I re-read it to my children. My 8yo adored it, my 5-6yos were bored at times. They might just not have been old enough for it.
pandacat42's review against another edition
5.0
Love, love, love! What a sweet book. This is one of my new favorites. The main character just blossoms in this book. She is smart, caring, and creative. I love how she goes about solving her problems. She is a wonderful friend once she opens up to others.
natcommon's review
4.0
Shannon Hale has such beautiful and well written stories, but the endings just drag a bit for my liking.
jamby4546's review
adventurous
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
smaugerella's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
4.75
Wow, I…loved this.
decafplease's review against another edition
4.0
I'm beginning to understand the pros and cons of using the term 'crossover novel' to describe a children's book that adults enjoy.
But really, it's just a damn great book!
But really, it's just a damn great book!
whisperfox's review against another edition
3.5
[7/10]
Initially I read this book as a leap of faith. I had read other things by the author and loved them, so I thought I'd check this out even though the premise seemed very silly. But, it sucked me in and surprised me by being much more than it looks like it would be at first glance.
Upon re-read, it holds up as being immersive and fun to read. It sucked me in just like it did the first time I read it. This book brings together the insecurity and moldability of a teenage girl protagonist with the anchor of her connection to her home and the people she loves. The story unfolds in a very heart-warming, almost ugly-duckling way in terms of emotional development.
The storytelling here is simple, but that doesn't take away from it for me. The pacing is well done and leads effortlessly to a satisfying climax. And I would be remiss if I didn't mention the magic system. I love the idea for this magic system, and it's the main thing I take away when I think about what makes this book special.
Would let my hypothetical children read. Definitely a book you shouldn't judge by its cover (or title).
Initially I read this book as a leap of faith. I had read other things by the author and loved them, so I thought I'd check this out even though the premise seemed very silly. But, it sucked me in and surprised me by being much more than it looks like it would be at first glance.
Upon re-read, it holds up as being immersive and fun to read. It sucked me in just like it did the first time I read it. This book brings together the insecurity and moldability of a teenage girl protagonist with the anchor of her connection to her home and the people she loves. The story unfolds in a very heart-warming, almost ugly-duckling way in terms of emotional development.
The storytelling here is simple, but that doesn't take away from it for me. The pacing is well done and leads effortlessly to a satisfying climax. And I would be remiss if I didn't mention the magic system. I love the idea for this magic system, and it's the main thing I take away when I think about what makes this book special.
Would let my hypothetical children read. Definitely a book you shouldn't judge by its cover (or title).