Category: Fantasy

Once There Was by Kiyash Monsef

July 6, 2023

Every adult knows the awe and wonder make-believe stories instilled in us as young children. We all imagined ourselves riding a unicorn or fighting a dragon or dancing with fairies. But what if these magical beings turned out to be real? And you were the only one who could help save them? This is exactly what happens to Marjan Dastani in Kiyash Monsef’s book, Once There Was. In this epic debut, readers follow Marjan as she begins to discover a secret world of mythical creatures– and all the dangers that come with it. … More Once There Was by Kiyash Monsef

The Lightcasters by Janelle McCurdy

June 29, 2023

At some point or another, every kid wishes for exciting adventures, real magic, and a trusty animal sidekick. Janelle McCurdy’s The Lightcasters encompasses all those childhood dreams but with a twist. The umbra—hybrid animals made of shadows and magic—come to life in McCurdy’s prose with a unique reimagining of the bond between humans and animals. The novel begins with 12-year-old Mia’s first-day training to be an umbra tamer, a first day which quickly turns dangerous as Mia’s city falls under attack and most of its people are captured. Thrown into an adventure outside the city walls, Mia must learn to tame umbra in the field with only her wits and Jada—an older girl and taming mentor—to guide her. It’s up to Mia, Jada, her best friend TJ, her little brother Lucas, and her newly bonded umbra to brave all kinds of new dangers in the name of saving their world. … More The Lightcasters by Janelle McCurdy

This Game of War by Ed Butts

May 30, 2023

Remembrance Day ceremony is tomorrow, but Teddy Nugent already has plans of his own. Instead of joining his classmates and teacher in going to the ceremony arena to listen to boring speeches, watch a procession of war veterans and sing ‘In Flanders Fields’, Teddy plans to attend the War Games competition at the Super Comics store and compete against the best players in town. … More This Game of War by Ed Butts

The Boy Who Lost His Spark by Maggie O’Farrell, illus. Daniela Jaglenka Terrazzini

May 16, 2023

‘The Boy Who Lost His Spark’ is a chapter book disguised as a picture book. Younger readers will enjoy the story when read aloud, and the illustrations are captivating for all ages. As the reader gets older, they will learn new ways to appreciate the beauty of the prose, allowing for the audience to grow into the book. … More The Boy Who Lost His Spark by Maggie O’Farrell, illus. Daniela Jaglenka Terrazzini

The Wherewood by Gabrielle Prendergast

April 20, 2023

Review by Belle Cole Orca Currents from Orca Book Publishers, August 17, 2021 115 pages, paperback, $10.95 CAD, 9781459828049 Middle-grade, ages 9-12, grades 2-5 Fantasy “Violet and I formulated a plan last night. It’s bonkers. But it might work. And we have no other choice… It’s dangerous. That’s why we’re leaving it to the last … More The Wherewood by Gabrielle Prendergast

The Hanukkah Magic of Nate Gadol by Arthur A. Levine, illus. Kevin Hawkes

February 7, 2023

Review by Gabrielle Tselos Candlewick Press, 2020 40 pages, ISBN: 9780763697419, Hardcover, $24.99 CAD Ages 5-8 years Picture Book, Fantasy Nate Gadol was a great big spirit who had eyes as shiny as golden coins and a smile that was lantern- bright. In answer to people’s prayers, he made things last as long as they … More The Hanukkah Magic of Nate Gadol by Arthur A. Levine, illus. Kevin Hawkes