'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Tuesday 25 October 2022

Review: The Book of Wondrous Possibilities

Books are magic. We all know that, right? 

But what if they were magic beyond your wildest imagination? 

What if stories could come to life if they were written for you in a very special book called a Grimoire?

Arlo lives with his uncle Avery and his pet mouse Herbert. His mother passed away a year ago, and Arlo is still adjusting to his new world. He mostly keeps to himself, working in his uncle’s bookshop.

But that all changes when a girl called Lisette bursts through the bookshop door. Lisette has secrets, but she also has a gift for Arlo – a very special book with a very special story written inside.

Arlo isn’t sure he’s ready for the adventure calling him, but Lisette isn’t the kind of girl who takes no for an answer. She may be a street kid, but she’s also strong, brave and daring. She’s also linked to Arlo in ways he didn’t expect, and she needs his help.

Can Arlo find the courage to fight his inner demons and help Lisette?

The Book of Wondrous Possibilities is a true wonder. Award-winning author Debora Abela delivers heart, humour, mystery and fantasy through this brilliant middle-grade novel. The fantasy elements are fresh and unique — something you won’t have seen before — making this book a special gift to young readers.

Arlo and Lisette (and Herbert, too) are all brilliant characters. Each flawed in their own way (expect for maybe Herbert!), they have their own battles to overcome, and they do so throughout the novel, growing and learning from each other. 

Arlo and Lisette are wildly different, but I still saw myself in both of them, and I wonder if this is Abela’s magical way with words — pulling me into the story world and making me connect with their essence and personalities.

The story moves quickly, and each chapter is action-packed and exciting. There are some wild escape scenes, daring rescues and super-baddies that must be fought. Cliff hangers steal the show at each chapter’s end, enticing you to read more and creating the ultimate reading experience.

Fans of mystery and fantasy will love this book. It’s an addictive adventure not to be missed.

Title: The Book of Wondrous Possibilities
Author: Deborah Abela
Publisher: Puffin, $16.99
Publication Date: 2 August 2022
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781761044021
For ages: 8 - 12
Type: Middle Grade