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bella_lettore's review against another edition
5.0
Absolutely one of the best books I read when I was in middle school.
leighnonymous's review against another edition
3.0
This had the potential to be something better, I think. I realize it's a kids' book but some of the concepts in it were of adult-level confusion (reversing the *effects* of a wish, not the wish, itself). I guess I just got bored with the sudden and forced-fake friendship between Nuria and Catty.
My favorite character, by far, was the dastardly well. I suspect some lawyer was cursed to be this one, doling out horrible consequences for bad phrasing, taking everything to its literal conclusion…oh, I loved those parts! And when it gets angry because someone has bested it? What else to do but throw a temper tantrum that freezes the entire village? Hmph. That'll teach 'em.
I also appreciate the incredible thought the author gave to nipping the childish idea of "wishing for more wishes" in the bud. Lovely fate for the greedy.
Elements of this were fantastic and if you appreciate the complexities of wishing and causes and effects and such, you'll enjoy that aspect. The little girl banter (and even the trickery) won't hold your attention.
My favorite character, by far, was the dastardly well. I suspect some lawyer was cursed to be this one, doling out horrible consequences for bad phrasing, taking everything to its literal conclusion…oh, I loved those parts! And when it gets angry because someone has bested it? What else to do but throw a temper tantrum that freezes the entire village? Hmph. That'll teach 'em.
I also appreciate the incredible thought the author gave to nipping the childish idea of "wishing for more wishes" in the bud. Lovely fate for the greedy.
Elements of this were fantastic and if you appreciate the complexities of wishing and causes and effects and such, you'll enjoy that aspect. The little girl banter (and even the trickery) won't hold your attention.
kellyholmes's review against another edition
4.0
I love, love, love this author! I think she only has 2 books out (this and [b:The Folk Keeper|1094933|The Folk Keeper|Franny Billingsley|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1344392423l/1094933._SX50_.jpg|2670085]), but I will be on the lookout for more from her in the future. The main character was so strong and wonderful, and it was such a magical story.
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