A review by emma_reading_love
Nightbird by Alice Hoffman

adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No

3.5

This was the selection in my book club for October. We follow Twig as she tries to hide a magical family secret, make friends, and uncover a historical mystery. If you’ve read Practical Magic, then the vibe of this one will feel familiar. It takes place in Massachusetts and has ties to a witch from the 1600’s. I grew up north of Boston, so it was fun to be back in the New England setting. I would have LOVED this book when I was ten. I would have fallen right into the secret, the mystery, and the little side romance story. But it wasn’t exactly my taste as an adult reader. For most of the book, things moved slowly and thoughtfully, but then there was a hurried and overly-tidy ending. There were also some plot holes I couldn’t let go. I would, however, recommend it to any kid in middle grade or to any Alice Hoffman fan.