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The Way the Light Bends by Cordelia Jensen

Posted on May 6, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: The Way the Light Bends
Author: Cordelia Jensen
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary Fiction
Pages: Print 390
Release Date: March 27, 2018
Rating: ★★★★★

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I was provided a copy of this book from @KidLitExchange #partner in exchange for my honest review. Thanks again to @KidLitExchange #partner for access to review a free copy of this book! The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or KidLitExchange. The copy used in this review is an uncorrected unfinished copy.

Goodreads Synopsis:

Virtual twins Linc and Holly were once extremely close. But while artistic, creative Linc is her parents’ daughter biologically, it’s smart, popular Holly, adopted from Ghana as a baby, who exemplifies the family’s high-achieving model of academic success.

Linc is desperate to pursue photography, to find a place of belonging, and for her family to accept her for who she is, despite her surgeon mother’s constant disapproval and her growing distance from Holly. So when she comes up with a plan to use her photography interests and skills to do better in school–via a project based on Seneca Village, a long-gone village in the space that now holds Central Park, where all inhabitants, regardless of race, lived together harmoniously–Linc is excited and determined to prove that her differences are assets, that she has what it takes to make her mother proud. But when a long-buried family secret comes to light, Linc must decide whether her mother’s love is worth obtaining.

Favorite Quotes:

“…two paths
one in light
one in shadow
diverging.”

“Light leaks around each finger.
Light that seeps in.
Light that demands to be seen.
Even if I try to block it.
How much am I capturing something with my art
as much as I am releasing it?”

Final Thoughts:

This young adult fiction novel is written in a poem format with three different sections. I enjoyed the flow of each poem, the explanation of each character, and the emotions in each stanza. The author provided poem titles that captured my attention the entire time. I was engulfed in the text from the first page. Linc is such a fantastic character, and I enjoyed the explanation of her name. The character development for Linc is one of my favorites in this book since it is written from her perspective. Linc merely wants to make her family proud and live up to the same expectations of her adoptive sister Holly. While Holly is a straight A athletic student, Linc is a creative teen on the verge of being expelled from school due to her grades. Both girls struggle to find their place in the world and struggle to find themselves. Holly and Linc’s relationship struggles throughout this novel as both grow and build connections on their own. You can feel the tension between Linc, Holly, and their mother through the words displayed in this book. Will Holly and Linc rebuild the relationship they once had? Can Linc count on Holly in her time of need? Will Linc ever be accepted by her parents?

Overall this book reads like a contemporary young adult realistic fiction. The family dynamics in this novel felt relatable, and I felt like I could connect with the turmoil between family members. The author did a great job portraying the challenges faced by parents of an adopted child. Holly struggles to figure out who she is and wants to connect more with her past. While their mother strives to treat both girls equally while simultaneously being harder on Linc, her birth daughter. I recommend this book to any teen looking for a read that focuses on family, love, sibling rivalry, trust, and forgiveness. Each member must learn to trust each other and communicate better. Secrets are what will tear this family about, but those same secrets are what will mend the broken ties.

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

Flower Moon by Gina Linko

Posted on April 19, 2018April 23, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: Flower Moon
Author: Gina Linko Gina Linko
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy Fiction
Pages: Print 242
Release Date: January 2, 2018
Rating: ★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

Tempest and Tally Jo Trimble are mirror twins—so alike they were almost born the same person—and they’ve been inseparable since birth. But it’s the summer they turn thirteen, and it seems like everyone can tell something is changing between them.

Pa Charlie, whose traveling carnival is the best part of every summer, is watching them closer than ever. Digger, who sneaks poor kids onto the carnival rides for free and smiles faster than anyone, seems to be fixing for a fight. Even Mama is acting different, refusing to travel with the carnival this year even though her own twin, who she hasn’t seen since childhood, will be there.

And Tally and Tempest are the most different of all. There’s a strangeness between them, a thickness to the air, an unseen push and pull, and it’s getting stronger. It starts as a feeling, but soon it’s sputtering and sparking, hurling them backwards, threatening to explode.

When Tally learns that she and Tempest may not be the first twins in their family to be separated by whatever this force is, she realizes she’ll have to find a way to stop it—or she might lose not only her sister, but everyone she loves.

Final Thoughts:

This book started slow from the beginning. We learn about the twin sisters who Tally Jo and Tempest. Both are called mirror twins or identical twins in this story. There is some sort of pull between the two siblings but halfway through this novel and I am not sure what that pull is exactly. You learn more about the relationship between the two sisters in the beginning of the novel and learn how Tally Jo is mourning the loss of a connection she once had with her twin sister. Tempest is finally brave enough to have her own voice and try out new experiments. While Tally Jo continues to get into trouble trying to defend her sister and shield her from what she deems as harmful situations. Tally Jo has good intentions of protecting her twin sisters, although Tempest doesn’t always see it that way. Tempest is more interested in her experiments rather than her sisters antics. As both grow a part, Tally Jo starts to notice a force that is keeping the two from getting closer and reestablishing the connection they once had. The root of this mystery lies within the relationship between her mother and her mother twin sister Aunt Giana. Tally Jo must uncover many secrets with the help of Dibbler and find out the real reason her Aunt isnt in the picture. She must do this while still trying to figure out the how to save the relationship with her sister.

I Have Lost My Way by Gayle Forman

Posted on April 16, 2018April 19, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: I Have Lost My Way
Author: Gayle Forman
Genre: Contemporary Young Adult Fiction
Pages: Print 368
Release Date: March 27, 2018
Rating: ★★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

Around the time that Freya loses her voice while recording her debut album, Harun is making plans to run away from everyone he has ever loved, and Nathaniel is arriving in New York City with a backpack, a desperate plan, and nothing left to lose. When a fateful accident draws these three strangers together, their secrets start to unravel as they begin to understand that the way out of their own loss might just lie in helping the others out of theirs.

Favorite Quotes:

” I have lost my way.”

“Right here is where I need to be.”

“We all die. It’s the only sure thing in life and the one thing we all have in common with everything else on the planet.”

Final Thoughts:

This captivating book follows the journey of three young adults all uttering the same phrase that has connected each to one another, “I have lost my way.” Gayle Forman has done it again with her new contemporary novel that follows the lives of these young adults, each dealing with their form of loss. Freya must learn to accept the things she cannot change and mourn the loss of an absentee father. She must decide what’s more important, building relationships or her career. Harun is harboring a secret that could change his life and his relationship with his family. He must face facts, he must face his fears, and he must learn what it is necessary, family, love or both. Lastly, Nathaniel is too afraid to face the reality of his situation. He is facing the biggest challenge of the three, but he has to face reality head-on or let his imagination consume him. It is by fate that these three stumble into each other on that day in Central Park and it is by fate that their lives begin to unravel together. Each must face their challenges both individually and collectively. These three were strangers during the day, but by night they are family. Will Huran ever face his fears? Will Freya get over her absent father? Will Nathaniel face the truth?

Overall, this novel had me on the edge of my seat. Of all the characters, I had the hardest time with Nathaniel. His character put me to tears with the internal battle he struggles within this book. Gayle Forman did a great job developing his style and showcasing the challenges of dealing with a loss as epic as his. Huran was the most exciting character, and his trial was one that I had not thought of. I was absorbed in the story of his family, of his siblings, and of his challenge of finding a mate that fit into the boundaries of his cultural upbringing. He faces one of the most significant challenges that isn’t showcased much in literature that I have read, and I enjoyed his character much. Lastly, Freya was one I could relate to the most. The turmoil she faced with her sister and her finally finding a voice of her own is a fantastic story. I enjoyed this entire novel and felt the author did a tremendous job connecting the three characters and focusing on issues that needed to be addressed. I was tearing up at the ending parts of all the characters. This young adult fiction has a hint of LGBTQIA awareness between the pages and information on the importance of building relationships. I recommend this novel to teenagers and up. I personally would have liked more information on Nathaniel’s mother and an epilogue. This only because some pieces left me wanting more.

Happy Reading!

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

The Stupendously Spectacular Spelling Bee by Deborah Abela

Posted on April 8, 2018April 8, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

this image was taken from the following site: https://www.goodreads.com/book/photo/36748599-the-stupendously-spectacular-spelling-bee

Title: The Stupendously Spectacular Spelling Bee
Author: Deborah Abela
Genre: Children’s Fiction
Pages: Print 224
Release Date: April 3, 2018
Rating: ★★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

A heartwarming story about a girl who’s afraid to follow her dreams, and the family who help make them happen.

India Wimple can spell. Brilliantly. Every Friday night, she and her family watch the Stupendously Spectacular Spelling Bee on TV. When the Wimples suggest she enter the next Bee, India feels nothing but trepidation. She’s sure she’s not good enough – but with the support of her family, India finds the courage to sign up.

There are plenty of obstacles to reaching the finals, like Summer Millicent Ernestine Beauregard-Champion, a spoiled rich girl who isn’t afraid to step on anyone who gets in her way of winning.

The whole thing seems rather calamitous to India. But with hope, hard work, and a little bit of heart, something splendiferous might be on the horizon…

Final Thoughts:

Overall I thought this was a well-written novel that focuses on the importance of family and friends. The book follows the journey of one girl by the name of India Wimple. India Wimple is a fantastic speller with stage fright. She can spell all the words from the competition but is too afraid actually to enter. With the help of her family, she gets up the courage to enter the contest for the next year. India Wimple is hugely protective of her younger brother and will do anything for him. She must learn to put herself first to win this competition and trust her parents to take care of her brother. The entire town rallies to support India as she travels the world to compete in the most significant spelling bee competition. We watch as she overcomes her fears, makes new friends, and surprises everyone including herself. Will she win the competition? What is the grand prize?

If you are looking for a fast read that showcases essential life lessons, then I recommend this novel. This book is intended for elementary and middle-grade readers. It showcases resilience, support, family, and the importance of not giving up. India is a model character and learns to trust her instincts.

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani

Posted on April 8, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: The Night Diary
Author: Veera Hiranandani
Genre: Middle Grade Historical Fiction
Pages: Print 272
Release Date: March 6, 2018
Rating: ★★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

It’s 1947, and India, newly independent of British rule, has been separated into two countries: Pakistan and India. The divide has created much tension between Hindus and Muslims, and hundreds of thousands are killed crossing borders.

Half-Muslim, half-Hindu twelve-year-old Nisha doesn’t know where she belongs, or what her country is anymore. When Papa decides it’s too dangerous to stay in what is now Pakistan, Nisha and her family become refugees and embark first by train but later on foot to reach her new home. The journey is long, difficult, and dangerous, and after losing her mother as a baby, Nisha can’t imagine losing her homeland, too. But even if her country has been ripped apart, Nisha still believes in the possibility of putting herself back together.

Final Thoughts:

The Night Diary is a compelling novel that follows the life of Nisha and Amil. Two siblings who mourn the loss of a mother they never got the chance to know. The book is written from the perspective of Nisha. It is written in the form of a diary. Nisha writes about her day at the end of each day, she recaps her favorite moments and shares her thoughts. Nisha is a quiet girl with an immense amount of intelligence; she only speaks when she feels it is crucial. Amil, her brother, is the complete opposite. He is a free-spirited, outspoken, artist who fears nothing but the idea of not being able to be creative. Both siblings live in a large house in India while their father works as a doctor at a local hospital. In this home, they have a servant, and their father’s mother lives with them. In the days leading up to India gaining its independence from the British, turmoil is evident. As communities pick sides, families become divided, and this once safe place will become unsafe for this mixed family. Their home is now Pakistan, and they must leave to avoid being killed. This family must journey long and far to get to a safe place. They will face many challenges and hardships along the way. The only hope for these young souls is to get to a place where they can be safe and get to a moment where their father is free-spirited again. Will they survive the long journey? How far is their father willing to go to protect his family?

The author did a fantastic job with this novel. I enjoyed every moment of this book and enjoyed learning a bit more about the challenges faced by those born by both Hindi and Muslim parents. I have a History degree and love a good historical fiction novel. I have to say that this book made me cry. I completely understand the struggle of losing your mother and mourning the loss of a relationship with a parent you never knew. I may start my diary because of this book. I enjoyed the internal monologue that Nisha had with her mother and the connection she felt to her brother. The author built Nisha into a strong character, and Amil serves as her support. Both siblings struggle and cope with loss differently. Not only are they mourning the loss of their mother but the loss of a connection to their mothers family as well as the loss of the person their father used to be. I commend the author for doing such a great job with this book. I recommend this book to any youth between middle school age and high school. The book focuses on resilience, strength, determination, family, and fighting for what you believe. There are numerous life lessons in this book, and it also encourages youth to get a glimpse of the challenges faced by youth in other countries.

Happy Reading!

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

ARC Review: Good Dog

Posted on March 26, 2018March 26, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: Good Dog
Author: Dan Gemeinhart
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Pages: Print 309
Release Date: March 27, 2018
Rating: ★★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

Brodie didn’t remember the exact moment that he died. But he did remember the exact moment that he woke up afterward. When he woke up he was already running.

In his awe-inspiring new novel, acclaimed author Dan Gemeinhart brings his signature blend of action, heart, and beautiful, deliberate prose to the story of a good dog who can’t move on to the afterlife until the boy he loves is safe.

Final Thoughts:

Good Dog is a compelling novel written about a dog named Brodie who has just died. Brodie is now dead and stick in between the worlds. He can’t move on because he is not at piece. Brodie needs to go back to the world of the living go save his best friend, Aiden. Aiden and Brodie have been together since the beginning. Brodie remembers all of the amazing moments they shared. He also remembers that something dark is near Aiden and Brodie has to go back to protect him. Brodie will sacrifice his soul to save his human. Will Brodie get to Aiden in time? Will Brodie move on to his forever place?

Overall this novel almost had me in tears. The author did such a great job showcasing the bond between human and animal. Brodie will stop at nothing to get back to his human on earth after his death. Even in the afterlife he strives to protect Aiden from the danger that awaits. Think of a time when your pet did whatever it took to protect you from the danger that awaits. My cat pickles is always crying when I’m in the kitchen. He assumes that I am in danger and I love that he is willing to protect me. Any animal big or small will form a bond with its human and this story brings that bond to life. I loved this book so much and I almost cried at the connection I felt. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a heartfelt read about the love animals posses.

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

ARC: Class Action by Steven B. Frank

Posted on March 19, 2018March 21, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: Class Action
Author: Steven B. Frank
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Pages: Print 243
Release Date: April 3, 2018
Rating: ★★★★★

Dust Jacket Synopsis:

NO. MORE. HOMEWORK.

That’s what sixth grader Sam Warren tells his teacher while standing on top of his desk. He’s fed up with doing endless tasks from the time he gets home to the time he goes to sleep. Suspended for his protest, Sam decides to fight back. He recruits his elderly neighbor/retired attorney Mr. Kalman to help him file a class action lawsuit on behalf of all students in Los Angeles. Their argument? Homework is unconstitutional.

With a ragtag team—aspiring masterchef Alistair, numbers gal Catalina, sports whiz Jaesang, rebel big sister Sadie and her tech-savvy boyfriend Sean—Sam takes his case to federal court. He learns about the justice system, kids’ rights, and constitutional law. And he learns that no matter how many times you get knocked down, there’s always an appeal…until the nine justices have the last say.

Will Sam’s quest end in an epic fail, or will he be the hero who saves childhood for all time?

Favorite Quotes:

“Earlier this year we had to projects on endangered species. I did mine on the red panda because I love trees and so do they. But if I had to do it again, I’d choose a different endangered species. I’d choose childhood.” -Sam-

“You can’t tear down a wall if you don’t take a swing.” -Sam-

Final Thoughts:

This middle-grade fiction follows the life of Sam Warren. Sam has come home every day from school with mountains of homework. He has no time to build the treehouse with his dad, spend time with his mom, watch tv, or even hang out with his friends. His sister, Sadie, stays up late many nights working on special projects. One day in class, his teacher decides to give everyone a packet to complete over Columbus Day weekend. This weekend is one of his only a few long weekends he was looking forward. At this moment, Sam realizes that he cannot take it anymore, “it” being the endless amount of homework. Sam tries to rally other members of his class to stand with him against homework, but he learns that it is going to take a lot of hard work, a team of friends, an expert, and a sister on the debate team to keep homework away from home. Can Sam get homework removed from the home? Can Sam speak up for those students who are afraid to speak up? Will Sam stop student’s childhoods from going extinct?

Overall, Class Action is a fantastic story of bravery, commitment, determination, and the power of believing in yourself. A group of kids works together to achieve something that no one has ever tried to reach before. With the support of Sam’s parents and Sadie doing research, they might stand a chance to win their case. Mr. Kalman was tough to get on their team, but in the end, he was one of their biggest supporters. This novel encourages youth to stand up for what they believe in and not to be afraid to challenge their rights to freedom. The author did an excellent job with this storyline. I felt transported into the fight for no homework with the students in this book. I also liked the factual information provided about education court cases presented in this book. It served as a fiction read while also providing some educational facts. I personally would have liked for more interaction between Sam and the principal of the school. I think that would have added more to the story. I recommend this book to anyone interested in a fictional read that follows the life of one student who started a movement.

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo

Posted on March 14, 2018March 14, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title:The Poet X
Author: Elizabeth Acevedo
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary
Pages: Print 357
Release Date: March 6, 2018
Rating: ★★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

Xiomara Batista feels unheard and unable to hide in her Harlem neighborhood. Ever since her body grew into curves, she has learned to let her fists and her fierceness do the talking.

But Xiomara has plenty she wants to say, and she pours all her frustration and passion onto the pages of a leather notebook, reciting the words to herself like prayers—especially after she catches feelings for a boy in her bio class named Aman, who her family can never know about. With Mami’s determination to force her daughter to obey the laws of the church, Xiomara understands that her thoughts are best kept to herself.

So when she is invited to join her school’s slam poetry club, she doesn’t know how she could ever attend without her mami finding out, much less speak her words out loud. But still, she can’t stop thinking about performing her poems.

Because in the face of a world that may not want to hear her, Xiomara refuses to be silent.

Favorite Quotes:

“Their gazes are words are heavy with all the things they want you to be.”

“It is ungrateful to feel like a burden. It is ungrateful to resent my own birth.”

“….she should be remembered as always working to become the warrior she wanted to be.”

“If I were nothing but dust would anyone chase the wind trying to piece me back together?”

Final Thoughts:

The Poet X is a compelling young adult novel written about the challenges faced by a young Xiomara. In a world that never hears her, she must find her voice and speak up. Xiomara and her twin brother are seen as their parent’s gift from God. Her parent’s struggled to have children, and the twins were their miracle. The two have to live up to the high expectations of their mother and the lack of awareness from their father.

Growing up in a Catholic household, Xiomara is taught not only the ways of her Catholic mother. She is continuously scolded when she breaks any rules. She learns to explore her feelings for the opposite sex while trying not to get caught. She experiences her first love, shares her first kiss, and hides a secret about her brother. Mami continues to put immense pressure on Xiomara, expecting her uphold to a high set of standards or be punished. X continues to be exploited solely for her looks instead of for her intelligence or words. Her only place of solace in the poetry club at her school. Her English teacher encourages her to apply for the poetry slam in the upcoming months. Xiomara expresses her feelings through her poetry until one day she goes mute after a terrible thing between her and her mother. Can she ever forgive her mother? Will her mother ever accept her? How long can she keep Twin’s secret?

Overall, I thought this was a great novel, and I enjoyed the relationship between Xiomara and her English teacher. I like the concept that teachers have a significant influence on students. It is always great to read about teachers encouraging their students. I think the author did a great job with the writing of this book and I enjoyed the poetry format. I felt more connected with each character as the emotions were eloquently displayed. I recommend this book to young adults between the ages of thirteen and up. I had a teen ask about poetry books recently, and I suggested this book.

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

Alex and Eliza by Melissa De La Cruz

Posted on March 9, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

eliza and alex — The following image is taken from https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32860355-alex-and-eliza

Title: Alex & Eliza: A Love Story
Author: Melissa De La Cruz
Next Book in the Series: Love & War: An Alex and Eliza Story (Releases in April)
Genre: Young Adult Historical Fiction
Print: 368 pages
Rating: ★★★★★

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I checked out a copy of this book from my local library. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher.

Goodreads Synopsis:

1777. Albany, New York.

As battle cries of the American Revolution echo in the distance, servants flutter about preparing for one of New York society’s biggest events: the Schuylers’ grand ball. Descended from two of the oldest and most distinguished bloodlines in New York, the Schuylers are proud to be one of their fledgling country’s founding families, and even prouder still of their three daughters—Angelica, with her razor-sharp wit; Peggy, with her dazzling looks; and Eliza, whose beauty and charm rival that of both her sisters, though she’d rather be aiding the colonists’ cause than dressing up for some silly ball.

Still, she can barely contain her excitement when she hears of the arrival of one Alexander Hamilton, a mysterious, rakish young colonel and General George Washington’s right-hand man. Though Alex has arrived as the bearer of bad news for the Schuylers, he can’t believe his luck—as an orphan, and a bastard one at that—to be in such esteemed company. And when Alex and Eliza meet that fateful night, so begins an epic love story that would forever change the course of American history.

Final Thoughts:

The story of Eliza and Alex marks my first time reading a book written by this author, and I adored the writing style used. This book is my second historical fiction read of this year, and the author did a great job portraying the story of Eliz and Alex. I listened to this book on audio but will read the print version of the next in the series. I wanted to read this one since I am a part of a blog tour for the next book in the series.

I enjoyed the historical references throughout this novel. I loved that the author did her research before writing this book. I have a BA in History, and it is hard to find historical fictions that have somewhat relevant information in them. The time frame of the war, the challenges women on the home front faced, and the problems of men enlisting in the war were portrayed excellently in this book. The love story between Eliza and Alex was one that was remarkable. The interaction between each character enhanced the overall storyline. There were a lot of moments in this book that had me laughing. I especially loved the first part of the novel when the Schuyler’s threw a party to marry of the three sisters. The eldest of the Schuyler sisters is a spunky, determined, level-headed, older sister who feels she must marry well. Each daughter must find a suitable mate that will not only enhance the already established family name but also financially support the daughter. Alex does not fit any of these requirements. He struggles to earn the trust of one Schuyler sister in particular while trying to help in the war efforts instead of just being General Washington’s clerk. Alex struggles to find his place in the world, struggles to fight for the one he loves, and struggles to know his worth. Is love worth more than power? Does love truly conquer all?

Overall, I thought the author did an excellent job with this novel. She focused on the struggles intellectual women faced during the time of American Independence. Women were meant to be seen but not heard. Eliza is an intelligent woman who wants to contribute to the war effort like her aunt. She wants to feel as though she is making a difference. She isn’t worried about clothing or class, but she struggles to follow her heart in a time where her parents make the final decision. Eliza and Alex both grow together in this novel, and the character development of each is impeccable. This story is filled with love, loss, bravery, honor, and strength. I recommend this book to anyone interested in a young adult historical fiction.

What is your favorite historical fiction?

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L’Engle

Posted on March 9, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: A Wrinkle in Time
Author: Madeline L’Engle
Series: Quintet
Next Book in the Series: A Wind in the Door
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
Pages: Print 251
Rating: ★★★★

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I purchased a copy of this book from my local library in anticipation of the movie. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher.

Goodreads Synopsis:

It was a dark and stormy night; Meg Murry, her small brother Charles Wallace, and her mother had come down to the kitchen for a midnight snack when they were upset by the arrival of a most disturbing stranger.

“Wild nights are my glory,” the unearthly stranger told them. “I just got caught in a downdraft and blown off course. Let me be on my way. Speaking of way, by the way, there is such a thing as a tesseract”.

Meg’s father had been experimenting with this fifth dimension of time travel when he mysteriously disappeared. Now the time has come for Meg, her friend Calvin, and Charles Wallace to rescue him. But can they outwit the forces of evil they will encounter on their heart-stopping journey through space?

Final Thoughts:

I have never heard of this book until the recent release of the movie. I read it in one morning as it was a short read. I, with the help of the programming department, planned an event at my library to provide STEM activities and free tickets to the movie. I wanted to read the book in case someone asked me questions about it during the program, no one asked me questions, but I stilled shared information about the book with the kids.

The book has a Christian influence throughout the reading. I felt that two ideals were clashing in this novel, i.e., science and religion. I could tell there was a religious influence throughout the pages due to the “non-earthly beings” referred to as guardian angels toward the end of the book. The book initially published in 1962 and the dated terminology was noticeable throughout this entire novel. The influence of science and technology was prevalent as well. The description of the time travel was fascinating and the diagrams displayed in the book were helpful in understanding the proposed time travel theory. I enjoyed the influence of science, technology, time, and family in this book. I adored the main characters, Margaret and Charlie. I loved the description of Margaret and how she continued to underestimate herself. In contrast, Charlie purposely projected himself as being illiterate to others so that they may underestimate his abilities. Each child has something special inside of them, and they just need to stick to their guns and never give up on themselves.

The mention of Margaret struggling in school not because of the curriculum but because of the lack of a challenge was significant. This is something that is still relevant in schools today. Students aren’t necessarily illiterate; they just need to solve problems the best way that works for them. The book continues to showcase the importance of family and believing in yourself as we watch the two siblings, Calvin, and their guardian angels work together to defeat “IT.” The all must learn their strengths to travel through time and space to save Margaret and Charlie’s dad.

Overall this is an exciting book. I like the lessons that were being taught in this novel and enjoyed the interaction between characters. I have never read this book and only heard of it recently. The concept that you can create a wrinkle in time to travel through dimensions indeed makes this fantasy novel stand out. The author did a great job capturing my attention, but there were also parts where I felt confused. The ending felt a bit rushed, and I wanted more. I haven’t decided if I’m going to look into obtaining the next novels in this series, but if you are interested in a fantasy book that will leave you feeling intrigued, this is your book.

Have you read ever read this book? What did you think of it?

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com