Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Manifestor Prophecy by Angie Thomas

Information

Goodreads: The Manifestor Prophecy
Series: Nic Blake and the Remarkables #1
Age Category: Middle Grade
Source: Library
Published: 2023

Official Summary

It’s not easy being a Remarkable in the Unremarkable world. Some things are cool—like getting a pet hellhound for your twelfth birthday. Others, not so much—like not being trusted to learn magic because you might use it to take revenge on an annoying neighbor.

All Nic Blake wants is to be a powerful Manifestor like her dad. But before she has a chance to convince him to teach her the gift, a series of shocking revelations and terrifying events launch Nic and two friends on a hunt for a powerful magic tool she’s never heard of…to save her father from imprisonment for a crime she refuses to believe he committed.

Review

I love Angie Thomas’ work, so was excited to see her move into middle-grade fantasy (one of my favorite age ranges and genres!). Like many YA authors, however, she seems to have found the transition a little bumpier than expected. While The Manifestor Prophecy is a solid read and will likely please the tween crowd–especially those who love mythology- and folklore-inspired series–it does not quite seem up to Thomas’ typical level. The characters seem more one-dimensional than is typical for her work, and the book does not particularly stand out from similar titles such as Amari and the Night Brothers or The Marvellers. Still, fans can afford to be picky since Thomas’ standards are usually so high. The target audience will probably care less and simply go along for a magical ride with Nic and her friends.

It is difficult for me to pinpoint exactly why The Manifestor Prophecy feels a bit off, or more forgettable than similar titles, but I think perhaps it is the transition to fantasy that proved difficult. The book takes inspiration from Black history and folklore, and even the Bible, and that is all fantastic. Folklore-inspired tales are definitely trending in this age category, and this book brings another perspective and culture to the market. Still, the worldbuilding does not feel especially cohesive or immersive. But this is something that very well may change as the series continues and Thomas gains more experience with a new genre.

Characters are often where Thomas really shines, and she tries once more to bring a certain complexity to them here–but I think only to some and not always successfully. Nic and her neighbor/friend seem particularly one-dimensional; most of the complexity centers around her father. But his actions and his backstory feel a bit…weird to me. Almost like they do not really make sense, but, hey, they provide drama for the storyline. As for the rest of the characters–we are told a lot about them, but not necessarily shown. For instance, I never really got best friend vibes from Nic and her best friend. I am still puzzling out some of the other characters, who sometimes explain themselves out loud or describe other characters so readers can learn about their personalities–but again, it is often told and not shown.

I appreciate that Thomas is clearly trying to do a twist on the Chosen One theme here by showing how shouldering the expectations of others can affect a person. And I enjoyed the incorporation of Black history and folklore. I do think, though, that the series is still trying to find its feet. The sequel might feel more polished than this first installment.

Serafina and the Black Cloak: The Graphic Novel by Robert Beatty, Illustrated by Braden Sherrell, Adapted by Michael Moreci

Information

Goodreads: Serafina and the Black Cloak
Series: Serafina #1
Age Category: Middle Grade
Source: Library
Published: 2023

Summary

Serafina lives hidden in the basement of the Biltmore Estate along with her pa.  He says the rich folk who live above must never know she exists.  But then one night Serafina witnesses the Man in the Black Cloak kidnap a child.  And soon the children of Biltmore are disappearing one by one.  Along with her new friend Braeden, Serafina must find a way to stop a deadly evil before it’s too late.

Review

Serafina and the Black Cloak: The Graphic Novel expertly adapts the novel of the same name, capturing the creepy feel with both words and pictures. Indeed, if there is any flaw, it is that the adaptation perhaps follows the original a bit too much; the amount of narration included with the images is unusually large. Even so, I think tween readers will enjoy the book, and maybe even be inspired to check out the original series.

By nature, graphic novels often seem to move more swiftly than prose novels and this can, for me at least, sometimes lessen the emotional impact. I am not the type of reader who lingers over the illustrations (though I know others do); instead, I tend to focus on the text, and that makes comic books fly by. In this way, Serafina and the Black Cloak: The Graphic Novel did seem a wee bit less haunting to me than the original. I had not the time to dwell on the horror and the fear of the Man in the Black Cloak. And, well, I already knew what was going to happen since I’d read the original. So I was not surprised by the twist, or really worried for Serafina. But, I can still appreciate the adaptation for what it is.

And I do think it is an effective adaptation. With graphic novels being so trendy right now, sometimes it does seem like everything is being adapted or that graphic novels are being published that are not particularly remarkable. But this one is fun. It has an intriguing premise, a sympathetic and bold protagonist, a dollop of mystery, and a sprinkling of danger. It seems faithful to the original and it has illustrations that are both appealing and appropriately creepy. I can easily see the intended audience enjoying it.

Pick this one up if you enjoy haunting tales, spooky mysteries, and tales of friendship. It is a fast read, but a fun one.

The Book of Stolen Dreams by David Farr (ARC Review)

Information

Goodreads: The Book of Stolen Dreams
Series: The Book of Stolen Dreams #1
Age Category: Middle Grade
Source: Received from publisher
Published: 2021

Summary

Rachel and Robert Klein have grown up under the shadow of Charles Malstain–a tyrant who hates children, inhibits free speech, and makes his political enemies disappear. But when their father asks them to hide a rare book, The Book of Stolen Dreams, the two do not hesitate. Not even when their father is dragged away to a labor camp. And, soon, they are on a dangerous adventure to uncover the mysteries behind the book, and get their father back.

Review

The Book of Stolen Dreams is an enchanting read full of wonder, mystery, and danger. The stakes here are high, and often all too familiar, with the villain Charles Malstain mirroring many real-life tyrants. But though death, torture, and imprisonment always hover in the background of the story, not all is dark. David Farr highlights the acts of goodness, and leaves readers feeling like they, too, can make a difference, if only they are brave and true. The Book of Stolen Dreams will make a welcome addition to the shelf of any fan of middle-grade fantasy.

At first, I feared the book might a little too quirky, even for me (and I love quirky middle-grade books). Men with penguins on their heads simply did seem to fit the tone of the story, which begins with a warning that the reader is in danger for even opening the covers of the book. In 2023, with book bans on an unprecedented rise in the U.S., this is no idle flight of imagination, but an eerie echo of the number of bills under consideration that could criminalize librarians for checking out certain books. So, the kind of cutesy introduction almost lost me. But not for long.

Once the story picks up, it never slows down. Rachel Klein and her brother Robert undertake a fantastic journey to save a book (The Book of Stolen Dreams) their father warns them will soon mysteriously disappear–thanks to President Charles Malstain, who has also shortened library hours, dictated what can and cannot be taught in schools, and prohibited other books. (Again, sound familiar?) Even without knowing the secret behind the book, the Kleins implicitly understand the importance of words, and the freedom that can come from them. Without hesitation, they do all their father asks–saving the book and endangering their own lives in the process. But that is not enough. Soon, Robert is involved in an underground resistance movement and Rachel embarked on a journey to uncover the reason everyone seems to be looking for The Book of Stolen Dreams.

The Book of Stolen Dreams is a magical tale centered on the importance of following one’s moral compass, standing by one’s friends and family, and doing the right thing even when it is dangerous. Though at times the topics touched upon are serious and dark, the book itself feels full of light. And when difficult times face us in our own lives, it is just such books as these that we need, to remind us of who we are–people who are capable of extraordinary acts of goodness.

*The sequel to The Book of Stolen Dreams, The Secret of the Blood-Red Key, is currently listed for publication on August 30, 2023.

The Prisoner of Shiverstone by Linette Moore

Information

Goodreads: The Prisoner of Shiverstone
Series: None
Age Category: Middle Grade
Source: Library
Published: 2022

Review

Helga arrives on an island full of mad scientists, determined to rescue her imprisoned grandfather. But can she accomplish her mission before she is discovered or sent back to the Mainland?

Summary

While The Prisoner of Shiverstone has an interesting premise, the book largely fails to live up to it. The plot contains many gaps, the characterization is superficial, and the action sometimes happens too quickly for readers to feel any suspense or dramatic impact. Though I appreciate the focus on a girl interested in STEM, The Prisoner of Shiverstone really does not offer anything extraordinary or even particularly memorable.

The story opens with the young Helga arriving on an island–why is not explained until later and how never really explained at all. Her backstory is minimal; it would appear she likes to tinker with technology but this, for nebulous reasons, are frowned upon in the Mainland. The Mainland has, in fact, exiled all “mad” scientists to a specific island. I think it is supposed to be a prison–or was at one point. But now the scientists live there happily and just sell off their inventions to the Mainland (which is happy to use them even though they hate science). The whole premise is confusing.

This might be bearable, if the plot did not also contain many smaller gaps. At one point there was an attack and I honestly could not figure out where it was coming from, or why, though I reread several pages to try to figure it out. In another instance, I could not determine if a time gap had occurred or, if it had, what changes I was supposed to be inferring from the artwork. The book is simply confusing at parts.

The characters do not really stand out, and their characterization feels limited. I did not feel any particular connection to them–not even to a robot clearly meant to be lovable and humorous sidekick. The story, I think, relies too heavily on the “girls in STEM!” angle to really delve into why Helga likes STEM or what other attributes she might have.

Often, books with faulty premises or gaps in the plot are still enjoyed by younger readers I know, but I do not feel confident even in recommending this book to some of the more forgiving tweens in my life. It is just too confusing and not particularly strong in other areas to make up for it.

The Snowcat Prince by Dina Norlund

Information

Goodreads: The Snowcat Prince
Series: None
Age Category: Middle Grade
Source: Library
Published: 2023

Summary

Syv is the youngest of seven brothers, each of whom has the possibility of being chosen to rule after the death of their father. But Syv’s brothers are jealous of his popularity with their people, so they send him on a mission from which they expect him never to return. Syv must find the legendary crown of the Eldking, an artefact said to possess the power to restore their land. But if he betrays his honor and his family along the way, he will bear instead three stripes of shame–and not be welcomed back.

Review

The Snowcat Prince has a lot of potential to appeal to young readers with its vibrant hues and its Disney-like illustration style. Plus, the protagonist is an adorable snow cat! One with magical powers! As an older reader, I found that sometimes the plot points were not always well explained and characterization was minimal. I know enough tweens, however, that I expect these will not be sticking points with most of the intended audience.

To be frank, not much about the book stands out or feels truly memorable. The basic premise is a familiar one–a younger sibling is overlooked by older ones, goes on a quest no one expects him to achieve, and comes back in triumph to show he was always the worthiest of them all. For me, I need something a little more to make it special–lovable characters, or lots of drama and excitement. Something to make it feel unique. I did not quite get it here. But again, the target audience may not care. Being the youngest or the littlest and being overlooked, but coming out on top will likely resonate with many young readers, and that will be enough.

What I enjoyed most was the images. While I did not always follow what was happening in scenes involving magic or fighting, I do love vibrantly-colored comics, as well as ones that have a sort of “cute” drawing style. The Snowcat Prince provides all that! Different species/lands also get their own color palette, making it easy for readers to follow along on the journey.

The Snowcat Prince is a solid, enjoyable fantasy comic for middle grade readers. While I do not see myself ever rereading this one, I do think it a pleasant way to spend an hour or two reading. I also think tween readers will be more excited about it than I am.

The Guardian Test by Christina Soontornvat

Information

Goodreads: The Guardian Test
Series: Legends of Lotus Island
Age Category: Lower Middle Grade
Source: Library
Published: 2023

Summary

Plum has been chosen to train at the prestigious Guardian Academy on Lotus island, where trainees learn to transform into animal form. Using their powers, they dedicate themselves to protecting the plant and animal life of their world. But, before all that, Plum has to pass the first test. And she is not sure she is ready.

Review

The Guardian Test hits all the right notes for a lower middle grade fantasy adventure. Readers quickly get introduced to the protagonist Plum, a seemingly normal girl who clearly has special powers, even if she does not yet know it. Plum anchors the narrative with her relatability–her insecurity about belonging with elite Guardians and her drama with classmates who disparage her lower-class background–even as she introduces readers to a world rife with drama and mystery. The quick pacing and short length make The Guardian Test a smart choice for readers transitioning from chapter books to middle grade.

Something about The Guardian Test immediately smells like commercial success to me. It is the way the book reminds me of some sort of blend of Avatar: The Last Airbender and Pokemon, and introduces elements and tropes that are perennially appealing to young readers. Plum seems like a regular girl, but is clearly some sort of Chosen One with a mysterious background (courtesy of her dead mother). And she lives in a world where individuals can take on animal forms to engage in fights to conserve the environment (though, like Aang, they only fight in defense and prefer to meditate and heal). The cool factor here is very high.

And the book paces itself well, choosing to focus only on Plum’s passing the first test to remain training as a Guardian. This means the story hits all the right beats to keep things moving apace–mysterious temple, emerging villain, hints of fights to come–while still maintaining a short length that will attract newly independent readers. In many stories, this entire book would have comprised just the first half, but Christina Soontornvat clearly knows the market is lacking in shorter reads and expertly steps into that gap.

The Guardian Test is designed to enchant young readers and introduce them to a marvelous new world, where they can ponder questions about their own identity, talents, and strengths along with Plum and her friends. It seems like a sure winner for younger fans of fantasy series, ones who are leaving chapter books behind but are not quite ready for upper middle grade fare.

*Read Briana’s review of The Guardian Test.

What Is the Story of Nancy Drew? by Dana M. Rau, Illustrated by Dede Putra

Information

Goodreads:What Is the Story of Nancy Drew?
Series: What Is the Story Of?
Age Category: Lower Middle Grade
Source: Library
Published: 2023

Summary

Nancy Drew, teenage sleuth, is a literary icon. But how did she get her start and how has she transformed through the ages? Learn all about it in this installment of the What Is the Story Of? series.

Review

The popular What Is the Story oF? (a spin-off of Who Was?) series dives into the history of Nancy Drew with this short overview of the teen detective and her creators. The appeal of this series is, I believe, that each book is only about 100 pages, and full of illustrations and sidebars, making the topics accessible and the books easy to read. Since the series is geared towards children (probably third to fifth graders), sometimes nuance can get lost, but I have generally found the books to be comprehensive for the intended age group. What Is the Story of Nancy Drew? is, then, an effective introduction to the Nancy Drew Mysteries for the same target audience as the Nancy Drew Mysteries themselves.

Since I know a great about Nancy Drew already, I cannot say that What Is the Story of Nancy Drew? provided me with any new information. It read to me, actually, like a condensed version of Melanie Rehak’s Girl Sleuth: Nancy Drew and the Women Who Created Her, which is listed as one of the main sources in the back of the book. The main difference is that Rau provides a shorter account that leaves out much of the more uncomfortable aspects of Nancy’s history. For instance, a key part of Rehak’s research revolves around Harriet Stratemeyer’s efforts to claim sole authorship of Nancy, and deny ghostwriter Mildred Wirt Benson’s significant involvement (as well as the contributions of others to Nancy’s stories). Rau simply notes that a court case over the authorship happily resulted in everyone getting due credit for their work.

Aside from the loss of nuance, the only other aspect of the book that really bothered me is the complete rehash of the plot of Nancy’s first mystery. Briefer summaries of other stories are also included. I do not see how retelling the entire plot of The Secret of the Old Clock really adds to the history of Nancy Drew. It reads a bit like Rau desperately was trying to reach a specified word count and was not sure what else to include. I think a two-sentence summary that invites readers to pick up the book themselves, instead of spoiling the whole affair, would have been more pertinent, though.

I also would have liked actual photographs, rather than illustrations. It is weird to see illustrator Deda Putra drawing interpretations of the Nancy Drew covers, for instance, rather than having actual photos of the Nancy Drew books. And having illustrations of the people involved rather than photos. Still, I know this is how the series in general works, so I wasn’t surprised. Just a bit disappointed.

Altogether, I enjoy this series for its accessible introductions to various historical, scientific, and pop culture topics. I know many young readers who love the books and find them entertaining. Adult readers who want a longer, more complex version of Nancy’s history, however, should pick up Rehak’s Girl Sleuth.

Elidor by Alan Garner

Information

Goodreads: Elidor
Series: None
Age Category: Middle Grade
Source: Library
Published: 1965

Summary

One day, Roland, Helen, Nicholas and David pass through to the magical land of Elidor, where a few still seek to save the dying land. To do so, the four children must guard the four Treasures of Elidor. But, when they return to their own world, it soon becomes clear that they are being pursued.

Review

Children’s fantasy has changed significantly over the years, and reading Elidor shows just how much. Detailed worldbuilding and characterization seem of no import here; atmosphere, thematic considerations of light and dark, and allusions to myth and legend matter much more. Though I enjoyed the feeling of going back in time to an era when fantasy felt so different, I admit I have difficulty imagining the average child today enjoying this story, accustomed as modern audiences are to fast-paced action and simpler prose.

Quite simply, Elidor seems the type of book to divide opinions immensely. Readers who enjoy books rooted in myth and folklore (such as The Dark Is Rising sequence) and who do not mind sparse plots (as in the Narnia books) will find much to like here. Alec Garner masterfully creates a book full of what I can only call atmosphere. The characters move through a fantasy world comprised mostly of images and full of references they do not know and never understand. They feel instinctively that they must defend the light of Elidor and protect its treasures. They do not ever learn why Elidor fell or where it is going, or who is fighting or how. None of that matters. What matters is how they respond. Whether they pass the test. Themes of personal conviction and courage rise to the front in a book that often seems to be “about” nothing in particular, unless that something is how individuals choose to act in a world that does not always seem to support the good and worthy.

Readers who enjoy more modern fare, however, are likely to be disappointed. Elidor as a fantasy world is never fully explored–and neither is its seemingly lone hero, whom Roland loves almost inexplicably, considering how little he knows the man. The four children who find their way into Elidor have limited personalities, and act almost interchangeably, aside from Roland’s continued belief in Elidor as his siblings’ belief fades. The plot is brief, and certainly not episodic or action packed, as is common now. And there is no actual ending.

I understand why many readers remain enchanted with Elidor. It seems almost a more realistic version of Narnia, with the child protagonists entering a fantasy world, but having to learn to navigate their own world once they return. Their world, too, seems a bit more mundane, a bit more middle-class, and perhaps thus a bit more relatable to many. Still, before recommending this title, I would really need to know what other types of a books a reader likes. It is so different from what is published now, I think it would really be a bit of shock (and probably a bit of a bore) to the average tween.

Fae and the Moon by Catherine Saturn, Sarah Satrun, Franco

Information

Goodreads: Fae and the Moon
Series: None (Yet)
Age Category: Middle Grade
Source: Library
Published: 2023

Summary

Fae’s mother is missing, but Fae believes she is still out there, somewhere. Hoping to convince her mother to return home, Fae takes the moon out of the sky. But the moon has kept evil creatures at bay, and now that the moon has disappeared, many want its power. Fae will have to uncover old secrets and believe in herself if she is to save the moon and return it to the sky.

Review

Fae and the Moon is a short, simple tale with artwork more stunning than the actual storyline. With a narrative so brief, readers have no time to learn much about the characters or their histories, making it difficult to feel invested. Events unfold quickly, with little explanation, just for the sake of moving the plot forward. The illustrations will no doubt appeal to the tween audience the book is intended for. But the actual plot is disappointing.

In some ways, Fae and the Moon feels more like the outline to a story, than an actual story. It begins in media res, with readers being informed that Fae’s mother is missing–though for how long or why is never made clear. Fae, for the meantime, seems to live with some friendly mice and a rabbit named Percival, though the nature of their relationships is likewise foggy. But readers are not to worry about any of this, since the book jumps right to the point–Fae is going to steal the moon to convince her mother to come home. Why would this work? Why would Fae have this idea in the first place? All unclear.

Events unfold rapidly from this point, seemingly moving from scene to scene just to keep things interesting. Transitions, explanations, and detailed worldbuilding are seemingly unnecessary. It is the moments that count. The secret notebooks. The mysterious key. The unexpected villains. Again, it feels rather like someone had a great idea about a girl stealing the moon and then jotted down some things that could happen, but without considering how these events could be worked into a cohesive whole.

The main strength of Fae and the Moon is the artwork, which will appeal to readers with its bright colors, simple lines, and cute animals. The story itself, however, feels underdeveloped. The ending leaves room for a sequel, but it is hard to feel invested in wanting to know more when this first part feels so rushed and unpolished.

Kelcie Murphy and the Academy for the Unbreakable Arts by Erika Lewis

Information

Goodreads: Kelcie Murphy and the Academy for the Unbreakable Arts
Series: Kelcie Murphy #1
Age Category: Middle Grade
Source: Library
Published: 2022

Summary

Kelcie does not remember her past, only that she was dumped into Boston Harbor as a child. So she is shocked to discover an entryway into the Otherworld and the Academy for the Unbreakable Arts. There, she learns that she is a Saiga and can control the elements. But her kind are not looked upon favorably; a former Saiga betrayed the country and the queen. Still, Kelcie is determined to prove herself because she cannot afford to lose her place at the Academy and, with it, the only friends she has ever known.

Review

Kelcie Murphy and the Academy of the Unbreakable Arts introduces readers to a magical world perfect for fans of Amari and the Night Brothers, Nevermoor, and Percy Jackson. The school of magic is a perennially popular fantasy element, while the addition of Celtic mythology gives the Otherworld a unique flair. Combine a fascinating premise with fast-paced action and a bit of mystery, and the result is a book sure to keep readers glued to the edges of their seats.

As is usual with these types of books, readers will find plenty of familiar tropes. Kelcie, for instance, has a mysterious past since she was abandoned as a child and does not know who her parents are. Clearly they were special, however, and so is she; readers can expect a Chosen One plotline from the start. Add in the portal to another world, a series of tests to be passed to gain acceptance into a world that distrusts her, and a looming war and you have all the elements that typically grip middle grade readers. It might be familiar to adults, but younger readers often find it new, or simply do not mind if it is old.

The one element I did not particularly care for is Kelcie’s sarcasm, but I know I tend to in a minority with that opinion. Writers often use sarcasm to try to suggest that a character is witty or cunning, which I do not agree with. Here, it is at least used more, I think, to indicate Kelcie’s insecurity as well as her bold personality and short temper. The writing does have a distinct Percy Jackson feeling, with all the sassiness, and since that series is so popular, I do not think that it will harm the readership much. (Though that is part of the reason I never connected with the Percy Jackson books!)

On the whole, the Kelcie Murphy series seems poised for success in a market currently flooded with books featuring schools of magic as well as various mythologies. At some point, the market may become oversaturated and readers will tire of this trend. For now, however, the series is at least a solid readalike for fans seeking more books like the ones from Rick Riordan and the Rick Riordan Presents imprint.