sal_tinajero's review
4.0
I received a free e-arc from NetGalley for an honest review. Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins!
4.5 stars
I hadn't read Ciannon Smart's work before this book, and now they've become an auto-buy for me. This world was so unique and felt so advanced in its development that I would've been satisfied to just walk the streets of Below-London. Instead, Smart shows us just how many secrets are lying in plain sight and it made for a fun, inclusive, and approachable middle-grade romp.
The only reason this wasn't a 5 star for me was some slight instances where the prose required a second or third read for me to understand the exact visual. However, that won't stop me from reaching for the next installment.
4.5 stars
I hadn't read Ciannon Smart's work before this book, and now they've become an auto-buy for me. This world was so unique and felt so advanced in its development that I would've been satisfied to just walk the streets of Below-London. Instead, Smart shows us just how many secrets are lying in plain sight and it made for a fun, inclusive, and approachable middle-grade romp.
The only reason this wasn't a 5 star for me was some slight instances where the prose required a second or third read for me to understand the exact visual. However, that won't stop me from reaching for the next installment.
lastblossom's review
adventurous
funny
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? Yes
tl;dr
Magical adventures that spark the imagination anchor a story about learning to embrace one's self in a very VERY fun read.
About
A prankster and a troublemaker, Rayleigh has always felt a little out of place. But on Halloween night, he's whisked away to an underground world full of magic and monsters. There he discovers that he's the son of the Bogey Mann himself, and that a new life of magic awaits him. Only problem is, his father has gone missing, and the magical world might fall apart unless Rayleigh can get him back.
Thoughts
What a fun book! Amidst all the scares and self-reflection, there is an exciting and joy-filled adventure about discovering magic in the world and embracing one's self. The narrative about learning to embrace one's identity, and also how we get to choose who we become, will resonate with any kid whose felt like they don't fit in. I'm sure I could have used this back then. Rayleigh's wonder as each new piece of magic he discovers was palpable, and there is a stunning amount of world building. Sentient apartments, weather witches, flight, and trials for kids to prove themselves. Ugh, it has all the things, and I love it. There was also a vast array of world mythology in it, with Bloody Mary instantly claiming top spot as my favorite character. I think my only frustration is Rayleigh's as well - I hate when adults won't be honest with kids. Please picture me yelling at the book "Hey, just tell him already!" I think Rayleigh would agree.
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's Books for the advance copy. Continue to support the union!
Magical adventures that spark the imagination anchor a story about learning to embrace one's self in a very VERY fun read.
About
A prankster and a troublemaker, Rayleigh has always felt a little out of place. But on Halloween night, he's whisked away to an underground world full of magic and monsters. There he discovers that he's the son of the Bogey Mann himself, and that a new life of magic awaits him. Only problem is, his father has gone missing, and the magical world might fall apart unless Rayleigh can get him back.
Thoughts
What a fun book! Amidst all the scares and self-reflection, there is an exciting and joy-filled adventure about discovering magic in the world and embracing one's self. The narrative about learning to embrace one's identity, and also how we get to choose who we become, will resonate with any kid whose felt like they don't fit in. I'm sure I could have used this back then. Rayleigh's wonder as each new piece of magic he discovers was palpable, and there is a stunning amount of world building. Sentient apartments, weather witches, flight, and trials for kids to prove themselves. Ugh, it has all the things, and I love it. There was also a vast array of world mythology in it, with Bloody Mary instantly claiming top spot as my favorite character. I think my only frustration is Rayleigh's as well - I hate when adults won't be honest with kids. Please picture me yelling at the book "Hey, just tell him already!" I think Rayleigh would agree.
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's Books for the advance copy. Continue to support the union!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence and Kidnapping
Minor: Blood, Bullying, and Classism
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