This is a book I was given in exchange for a review. It’s a cute story about a twelve-year-old girl who is on the brink of inheriting a magical ability. But more important than magic, it’s about discovering oneself and about love and family.
Michaela is so excited to be visiting the mountain where Granny and Grandpa live. And bonus! Aunt Sharon will be there too, along with her big dog, Blackie. But things don’t go quite according to plan. Mom can’t seem to get along with Aunt Sharon for anything, she’s so distrustful of the dog that Michaela’s not even allowed to touch it, and she absolutely refuses to believe that the supernatural family gift even exists. She’s short-tempered and unreasonable, and after two days she announces that they’re leaving. Michaela’s furious! But things have a way of working out when your family sticks together like Michaela’s does.
I enjoyed the sweetness of this story. And I liked the way Michaela thinks for herself, speaks for herself, and acts for herself, even when some big surprises catch her off guard. She grows into her gift, and I do appreciate a character who learns and changes. The story makes sense. It comes together well. The prose flows easily enough. And the setting and characters are quite satisfactory. My only complaint is that the story just isn’t very snappy. All those things I mentioned are very nice; they’re simply not exceptional in any way. It’s not a story that will stay with me.
But I do love the cover. (What’s not to love about a Newfie?) And I commend Ms. Dinsmore on the age-appropriateness of her work, even when it delves into the supernatural. I think kids ages 9-12 will enjoy the read. I did. It’s easily worth its 2.99 price tag.
Michaela’s Gift, by Cordelia Dinsmore, 2012, Book Review
You leave me wondering what the power is and I can’t help but wonder if the dog is more than just a dog. Sounds like lovely read for young people.
You’re very insightful, Pat. 🙂 It is a great read.
Thank you so much for the generous review, Michelle. I so appreciate you for taking the time to read it. And I will definitely work to make my next one a little more memorable.
That can’t be your goal, Cordelia. Write the story you have to write. This one really is very lovely. It’s just a slower-paced read, and those aren’t my usual preference. It’s a personal opinion. It actually reminded me a lot of The Penderwicks, by Jeanne Birdsall. Great job on a first novel, and thanks for sharing it with me!! 🙂
I like the sound of this book. Thanks for the review.
This one fills the “sweet” half of my blog description.
Thanks for the review! The cover is amazing : ) ~ Jess
I really liked this book. My review is coming soon! 🙂 What did yo think about the gift (I don’t want to give it away)? I thought it was pretty cool. I wish it worked with writing! Great review! 😀
I thought the gift was one I’d like for myself! 🙂 Can’t wait to hear your thoughts on the book!
Oops! Sorry I didn’t get back here to respond to everyone who offered comments. Somehow everything got sent to my hubby’s email account (could possibly have been my fault). Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday!
🙂 I’ve done that myself. I, for one, had an excellent Thanksgiving with family and good food today. Hope yours was blessed, too.