Reviews

The Bootlace Magician by Cassie Beasley

mudder17's review against another edition

5.0

I absolutely loved this follow-up to Circus Mirandus as Micah settles into circus life and tries to learn more about how his magic of tying knots can be of any use to anyone. You learn more about his friends in the circus and are introduced to new characters (including the Strongwomen, who are awesome). While I could have been happy with the first book as a standalone, I loved this follow-up as it addressed many things left open-ended in the first, including more about his grandmother. I really love the magic system in this story, where magic is explained as when you have more of you than you can hold in and it comes out as something you put into the world, whether good or bad, something you can choose. I loved how Micah was able to make friends with Fish and Terp, and how his best friend did what she could to help him figure out his magic. We see more about how the members of Circus Mirandus have chosen to use their magic to put light into the world, as opposed to what his grandmother chose to do. Without revealing any spoilers, I loved how it ended and where the Idea ended up (where I was hoping!). This was a fabulous duology and while a third book could be added (and I would love it if it were) to see what happens with the Idea, I loved this satisfying ending.

auntiemq's review against another edition

4.0

What a delightful, magical story. So many good takeaways for young readers about the meaning of family and what really constitutes magic. I love the main characters and I love the set up for the next book. I haven’t read Circus Mirandus, which may be why this was only three stars for me, but I enjoyed it and certainly recommend it.

ewhaverkamp's review against another edition

4.0

Wow. Another exciting Circus Mirandus book! I loved the first book. I was nervous about a follow up and I shouldn't have been. This book is very good! I think the author did a great job continuing the story of Micah and his magic. My only issue with the book was the audience.... I think only 4-6 graders would read this book. It would be a great series to start building reading stamina.

FYI: I met the author at AASL in Louisville and she was delightful! She was giving away and signing copies of this book. I was able to get a copy signed from her for our school library.

whatmrsharperisreading's review against another edition

adventurous funny lighthearted mysterious 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

maxine_december's review against another edition

adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring 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

4.25

stefmoser's review against another edition

5.0

Micah's story keeps me wanting to visit Circus Mirandus and keep my ear free to find that music.

bookboop's review against another edition

adventurous hopeful lighthearted mysterious 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

4.25

shannon_mcdrapcho's review against another edition

adventurous emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

noapo88's review against another edition

5.0

A very good ending

Loved this book! I liked the first one enough to read this, but I didn't think that it was such a great read that I would remember it in a few months.
However, this book changed that. This is storytelling at its best. One of this books that make you feel like magic is real

psyche9's review against another edition

4.0

A wonderful read - should be read aloud with someone you love.