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klee73010's review against another edition
3.0
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I wanted to love this book based on the description. Unfortunately, I struggled getting through the building of the story. I'd say the last third of the book redeemed it somewhat.
Ethan is a wonderful character, and I appreciate how much we had to see him work through in the story, but as an adult, I was incredibly bored. I absolutely think this book is a wonderful gift idea for children around 8-10 years old, who are independent readers, but not something I think parents/teachers/care givers will enjoy reading along. Topics such as family values, bullying, and special needs were all touched on in this book, which made it a wonderfully relevant story and fostered understanding.
I wanted to love this book based on the description. Unfortunately, I struggled getting through the building of the story. I'd say the last third of the book redeemed it somewhat.
Ethan is a wonderful character, and I appreciate how much we had to see him work through in the story, but as an adult, I was incredibly bored. I absolutely think this book is a wonderful gift idea for children around 8-10 years old, who are independent readers, but not something I think parents/teachers/care givers will enjoy reading along. Topics such as family values, bullying, and special needs were all touched on in this book, which made it a wonderfully relevant story and fostered understanding.
chelton's review against another edition
5.0
Ethan has spent countless hours perfecting his magic act. Of course, that’s when he’s not focused on his little brother with special needs, Jake, and his constant hospital visits. His practice pays off when he gets the chance to enter a magic competition in Atlantic City, with the grand prize of meeting his idol, Magnus the Magnificent. But when Jake becomes seriously ill, Ethan searches for any trick that might help him.
There’s no better character to tell this story than Ethan. Funny, determined, and always interesting, Ethan’s love of magic makes him a born entertainer. Author Naomi Milliner has managed to find such a natural voice in Ethan, and his enthusiasm and, in turn, growth is palpable on the page. Whether Ethan’s recounting working on a trick or stretching Jake’s arms and legs, Milliner writes from such a believable and honest perspective.
And there’s plenty Milliner throws at him. Family responsibilities, including two little brothers. A magic competition. A school bully. Math class. Yet Ethan handles all of this with the optimism that only someone who believes in true magic can. This certainly makes the second half of the book, particularly its most dramatic moments, all the more impactful.
Though Ethan is an expert showman, the real star of this book is Jake. Jake, though a baby, ties the entire family and their community together. It’s because of him that each character is given a moment to shine. Through therapy appointments, ER visits, and even a birthday, he binds them together as they star in his life.
Ultimately, Milliner has crafted a truly magical book.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpress.com/
There’s no better character to tell this story than Ethan. Funny, determined, and always interesting, Ethan’s love of magic makes him a born entertainer. Author Naomi Milliner has managed to find such a natural voice in Ethan, and his enthusiasm and, in turn, growth is palpable on the page. Whether Ethan’s recounting working on a trick or stretching Jake’s arms and legs, Milliner writes from such a believable and honest perspective.
And there’s plenty Milliner throws at him. Family responsibilities, including two little brothers. A magic competition. A school bully. Math class. Yet Ethan handles all of this with the optimism that only someone who believes in true magic can. This certainly makes the second half of the book, particularly its most dramatic moments, all the more impactful.
Though Ethan is an expert showman, the real star of this book is Jake. Jake, though a baby, ties the entire family and their community together. It’s because of him that each character is given a moment to shine. Through therapy appointments, ER visits, and even a birthday, he binds them together as they star in his life.
Ultimately, Milliner has crafted a truly magical book.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpress.com/
piquant's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
barberchicago_books's review against another edition
5.0
Devoured this one, laughing, crying, and cheering throughout. Every kid needs to read this story to help them see what really defines a hero. Excellent in every way. Thank you to the author and to Hatchette Book Group for sharing this wonderful work with my #bookexpedition reading group.
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