Chastaine, in a lively debut, captures the real-life apprehension, doubts, and bullies of middle school, with a dash of magic. Spoiled brat reprobate Oliver Darklighter makes Airin’s life miserable, and Bellona, niece of the principal, lords over the other students. To show off their talents and prove to themselves and their parents who they really are, the students participate in Eclipse Art’s talent show contest. Ephy feels Zephyr Suite has to win to please her mother, while Airin can’t best Oliver’s team or he’ll have Airin kicked out of school.
The slick world building, diverse students, and performing arts atmosphere offers young readers a chance to see themselves reflected in the challenges of following your dreams and growing up. The leisurely plot builds up the hopeful and persistent characters who confront their parents’ preoccupation with status and fame to work out their own problems together in friendship. This is an optimistic story for young readers, and a charming adventure in growing up, showing the world your gifts, and triumphing over bullies and overbearing parents.
Takeaway: Charming magic school story of friends, finding yourself, and a talent show.
Comparable Titles: J. Elle’s A Taste of Magic, Anne Ursu’s The Troubled Girls of Dragomir Academy.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A
