Nothing is going right for ten-year-old Amy. Her mother disappeared when she was a baby. Her father has fallen ill. And now she has to move away from her home to live in the country with her grandmother.
But when she finds an injured fairy in her grandmother’s barn, Amy’s life is forever changed.
Traveling through the enchanted fairy door on a quest to cure her father, she discovers a magical world filled with wonders: fairy villages built into trees, glowing crystal caverns, majestic white stags with the power to grant wishes.
But it soon becomes clear that all is not well in the land of fairies, and Amy’s quest is not nearly as simple as she thought.
Assessment:
Plot: While older readers may find the plot here predictable, the fast-paced storyline melds magic and adventure to craft a heartwarming, satisfying fantasy.
Prose/Style: Polished and engaging, the writing perfectly captures the feel and voice of its ten-year-old protagonist, and effortlessly shares an entertaining story.
Originality: This middle grade fantasy possesses charm, emotion, and a distinct moral decision with high stakes for its heroine, as she journeys through a magical realm filled with turmoil.
Character Development: Amy’s desire to save her sick father might fuel this tale’s initial quest, but her empathy for other people lets her shine as a worthwhile, sympathetic heroine with whom readers can relate.
Date Submitted: August 06, 2020