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Never wish in the woods.
With one wish made in Willow Forest, Soli and Lucy are pulled into Faerieground—and into the middle of an ancient battle. In the faerie kingdom, an evil queen searches for her daughter while the palace crumbles. To save her best friend, Soli must find her hidden strength.
This is a story about friendship, growing up, and the power of wishes. This is a story about faeries and spells, queens and lost princesses, fireflies and four-leaf clovers. But mostly, this is a story about love.
With one wish made in Willow Forest, Soli and Lucy are pulled into Faerieground—and into the middle of an ancient battle. In the faerie kingdom, an evil queen searches for her daughter while the palace crumbles. To save her best friend, Soli must find her hidden strength.
This is a story about friendship, growing up, and the power of wishes. This is a story about faeries and spells, queens and lost princesses, fireflies and four-leaf clovers. But mostly, this is a story about love.
266 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2012
About the author
Beth Bracken
37 books26 followersBeth Bracken is a children's book editor. She lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with her husband, Steve, and their son, Sam. When she's not reading, writing, or editing books, Beth spends most of her time knitting endlessly while watching reruns of old TV shows and drinking lots of tea.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
November 4, 2013
Once upon a time two girls grew up together and were best friends. Lucy was the light one; popular, beautiful, always wanting to be around other people. Soli was the dark one; shy, also beautiful, but content to stay in the shadows. They did everything together and were as close as close could be until the day that Lucy stole the boy that Soli liked. Soli makes an rash wish and causes Lucy to vanish...into the Faery realm that lies near the border of the human world. Now Soli must learn what kind of person she really is as she treks through danger and mysterious discoveries to rescure her friend.
This book was a light fun read. The chapters went back and forth between Lucy and Soli which was nice because we got to see the story from both points of view. The book was a quick read, because the chapters were short and the book was peppered with gorgeous illustrations of the two girls and also the Faery realm. This is where the book nailed it for me, I love the way the Fey are portrayed. This seems like a overglossed children's story but looks can be deceiving. The fey in this book are realistic; they are sharp like glass and dark like a velvet night. They can help you, but they can also harm you. I really got caught up in the story and was eager to see what happened next!
This was a perfect book to read outside in the woods (or by a lake, like I did) on a bright, crisp Autumn day!
This book was a light fun read. The chapters went back and forth between Lucy and Soli which was nice because we got to see the story from both points of view. The book was a quick read, because the chapters were short and the book was peppered with gorgeous illustrations of the two girls and also the Faery realm. This is where the book nailed it for me, I love the way the Fey are portrayed. This seems like a overglossed children's story but looks can be deceiving. The fey in this book are realistic; they are sharp like glass and dark like a velvet night. They can help you, but they can also harm you. I really got caught up in the story and was eager to see what happened next!
This was a perfect book to read outside in the woods (or by a lake, like I did) on a bright, crisp Autumn day!
March 3, 2013
I work at a bookstore and this happened to be in our white box (the ARC box) and I thought Hey! Faeries, I like that topic a lot, lets try it. Despite its young-adultness it was actually pretty good. It didn't take me long to read it either because it is written in a short story format (in a hardcover binding) with illustrations. Kind of like a graphic novel.
Anyway, like I said before, I actually enjoyed it. The story is a lot like some others in that the main character likes a boy, the other character kisses said boy and they have a little tiff over it. Juvenile? Yes, it is made for like 13 year olds, get over it. One girl goes to the Faerie world and the other has to save her. But! There is a twist...dun, dun, dun...I won't spoil it and all but it won't be too hard to guess once you start reading.
Needless to say, pretty good little story. It flows, the characters are pretty good, and the ending sets up for the next few books in the series. I actually wanted to read the next one, but if I invariably don't, I wont be too disappointed. And lastly, the illustrations are PHENOMENAL. The artist actually does a very good job showing you the world that the characters are in. Overall, it is recommended by this serious reader :D
Anyway, like I said before, I actually enjoyed it. The story is a lot like some others in that the main character likes a boy, the other character kisses said boy and they have a little tiff over it. Juvenile? Yes, it is made for like 13 year olds, get over it. One girl goes to the Faerie world and the other has to save her. But! There is a twist...dun, dun, dun...I won't spoil it and all but it won't be too hard to guess once you start reading.
Needless to say, pretty good little story. It flows, the characters are pretty good, and the ending sets up for the next few books in the series. I actually wanted to read the next one, but if I invariably don't, I wont be too disappointed. And lastly, the illustrations are PHENOMENAL. The artist actually does a very good job showing you the world that the characters are in. Overall, it is recommended by this serious reader :D
June 13, 2020
this was a pretty good book. very quick read. 3 hours at most. but a fun story.
April 22, 2024
This was just a super fast read. I really like the illustrations.
April 11, 2014
First off, I really loved the illustrations in this book and I thought that they were super beautiful and added a lot to the story. I also really enjoyed the book and thought it showed a lot about growing up and the bonds of friendship. Though Soli and Lucy are complete opposites, they've been friends for years. Lucy is the brave, outgoing one. Soli is the quiet, shy one. But then Soli has to overcome her fears and become brave to help rescue her friend. This book was touching story about growing up, the power of wishes, and the bonds of friendship.
February 27, 2013
At first the cadence of the language seemed off, but the more I read the smoother it got. I think it just took me awhile to realize that this book is not intended for teens, but more for tweens and advanced children. It will make a great reluctant reader book for grades 4 and 5. The story was engaging and the pictures really helped with comprehension of the story. It had a feel of The Invention of Hugo Cabret, and I think that girls in particular will find this story charming.
Read
June 27, 2016this was a short read, but I found it to be an enjoying read. I currently placed the second book on hold at the library, so I will pick it up later this week. It is a good story of an outcast who feels betrayed by her friends and it seems like her dark emotions took over. Well, let's see where the rest of the story goes. I sort of feel bad for Soli... hope things turn out ok for her.
September 13, 2023
This book is a work of art, literally, with beautiful color illustrations filling every other page. It looks like the kind of art you get in special editions of fantasy novels and as cardstock prints in Fairyloot boxes, except in much greater amounts since it makes up 50% of the book.
The accompanying story is pleasant, not unlike something you might whip up in a middle school creative writing class (what if the woods by your house were, secretly, inhabited by faeries, and an invisible faerie world that exists in the same space, but on a different plane?), but it absolutely serves as a vehicle for adding context to the art, IMO. And I'm fine with that. This is exactly what I want when I look at this type of art on Etsy and sigh that I'll never get to appreciate it because I don't tend to like fantasy novels, at least in the lengths they get up to in YA and beyond. The simplicity and brevity of this text*, though? Perfect.
(*And while it wraps up nicely enough to avoid a true cliffhanger, darned if I'm not curious about the subsequent adventures now!)
The accompanying story is pleasant, not unlike something you might whip up in a middle school creative writing class (what if the woods by your house were, secretly, inhabited by faeries, and an invisible faerie world that exists in the same space, but on a different plane?), but it absolutely serves as a vehicle for adding context to the art, IMO. And I'm fine with that. This is exactly what I want when I look at this type of art on Etsy and sigh that I'll never get to appreciate it because I don't tend to like fantasy novels, at least in the lengths they get up to in YA and beyond. The simplicity and brevity of this text*, though? Perfect.
(*And while it wraps up nicely enough to avoid a true cliffhanger, darned if I'm not curious about the subsequent adventures now!)
July 18, 2019
The story itself was only okay. Even for a story aimed at thirteen year olds, it was a little predictable, though it wasn't bad. Just nothing very original. (I would really like to see some fairy fiction that doesn't feature but I doubt that popular theme is going anywhere anytime soon.
It's written in first person, present tense (alternating POV chapters), which doesn't bother me as much as it might other folks. What did bother me, though, was the excessive amount of telling versus showing. It was a lot of, "I did this. I did that. I felt this way." This made the narrative feel distant, despite the first-person POV. It's possible the authors chose to do this intentionally to lend it a more poetic sound, but that's just not my preference.
All that said, if you have an opportunity to flip through this book, do so. The illustrations that feature heavily throughout are simply gorgeous, and I love the style of the art.
I probably won't go looking for the sequel, though if I find it in a library or bookstore, I'll flip through it.
It's written in first person, present tense (alternating POV chapters), which doesn't bother me as much as it might other folks. What did bother me, though, was the excessive amount of telling versus showing. It was a lot of, "I did this. I did that. I felt this way." This made the narrative feel distant, despite the first-person POV. It's possible the authors chose to do this intentionally to lend it a more poetic sound, but that's just not my preference.
All that said, if you have an opportunity to flip through this book, do so. The illustrations that feature heavily throughout are simply gorgeous, and I love the style of the art.
I probably won't go looking for the sequel, though if I find it in a library or bookstore, I'll flip through it.
December 26, 2017
2.5 stars, maybe 3 based on the categorization: hi/low
Read this book because I might introduce it to some of my struggling readers who yearn for chapter books but aren't necessarily ready for them. This particular book isn't bad. The short, simple sentences are easy to read and comprehend, and the formatting (lots of space) makes the text unintimidating aka perfect for struggling readers. The ending should leave readers with a desire to read book 2, which is always something I look for when introducing books to my students. I hope to build lifelong readers, so this book/series may get me one step closer to that.
Read this book because I might introduce it to some of my struggling readers who yearn for chapter books but aren't necessarily ready for them. This particular book isn't bad. The short, simple sentences are easy to read and comprehend, and the formatting (lots of space) makes the text unintimidating aka perfect for struggling readers. The ending should leave readers with a desire to read book 2, which is always something I look for when introducing books to my students. I hope to build lifelong readers, so this book/series may get me one step closer to that.
November 29, 2018
it was amazing i think icould read it like a bajillion times!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! that how good it was
June 23, 2019
Stunningly beautiful illustrations, but the writing is overly simplistic. Were preschoolers the target audience?
June 22, 2021
Pretty good series. Have really good memories of it
November 17, 2023
The book is very fun to read and I felt so connected to the characters, however, I didn't have many reactions that were visible, but it gets 4.5 stars! I think about this book so much, and I have reread it many times now!
January 18, 2017
I really like this book because Solly and Lucy were best friends since they were baby's. I chose this book because a friend recommended it to me.I would recommend this book to my friends because they would like to see what happens in the book. My favorite part of the story was when Solly finds out that she was the daughter of a fairy queen ,it is important in the book because now she knows who she is and who her real mom is. My thoughts about the theme of the story is to always be truthful with your friends or family. What I learned from this book to always be nice and to forgive people if they didn't mean to do something in the first place. What I found interesting was when Solly became brave and swam down the river or ocean to get the crown for her best friend Lucy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2013
Reconozco que aunque esta clase de historias se escapan un poco de mi edad, pero en cuanto veo que tienen ilustraciones me animo a leerlas porque me encantan los libros con ilustraciones y más si son de mundos de fantasía.
Pero la verdad es que me sorprendió un poco la historia, sí suena raro pero me explico: al principio pensé que sería una historia clásica, de esas de hadas lindas y encantamientos; pero el concepto cambió completamente en cuanto comencé a leer.
La historia se centra en Soli y Lucy, dos amigas, las mejores amigas, inseparables, dos chicas con personalidades diferentes pero complementarias a la vez. Ellas son las protagonistas de esta historia. Son dos personajes fuertes, con unas personalidades muy bien definidas y que demuestran tener una gran decisión ante las pruebas u obstáculos que se les puedan presentar.
La trama nos muestra como un deseo (de ahí el título), en el momento más inoportuno y debido a un enfado entre amigas, puede cambiar sus vidas, llevándolas a Faerieground (el reino de las hadas) donde demostrarán que son fieles a su amistad por encima de todo.
A lo largo de la historia, la relación entre las chicas cambia en varias ocasiones, según los acontecimientos, pero siempre está descrita de una manera realista y cercana (con la cual una se puede identificar) lo que le da un enfoque real combinado a la perfección con el trasfondo fantástico que contiene la historia.
Y si hablamos de Faerieground, no todo es lo que parece...
Las chicas llegan a un mundo donde las hadas, por muy perfectas que nos pudieran parecer, no lo son tanto; un mundo donde todos pensaríamos que sólo hay claridad pero también existe la oscuridad (como en cualquier mundo, ¿verdad).
Allí está Calandra, la reina malvada que (como dice la sinopsis) busca a su hija, arrebatada cuando era pequeña y necesaria para sus propios propósitos. Para mí, ella es uno de esos personajes malvados que son así por las circunstancias que la rodean pero a la vez no tiene perdón por ser como es. Pero donde hay malos, también hay buena gente como Kheelan, un chico hada (nunca he sabido como decir correctamente el masculino de hada...) que intentará ayudar a las amigas a escapar de las garras de la reina.
Como veis la historia lo tiene todo. En su conjunto está narrada de una forma sencilla, que debo suponer que es debido al público objetivo, y entre sus palabras, esconde varios mensajes para los más jóvenes que la lean, pero quizás lo que más se debería destacar son las ilustraciones de Odessa Sawyer, que son páginas completas a todo color de los eventos de la historia y páginas extras decoradas con motivos florales para complementar la decoración de la edición que hacen que la obra en su conjunto sea preciosa y merezca la pena echarle un vistazo y para disfrutar plenamente de ella.
Debemos recordar que es el primer libro de una trilogía, y además es un recopilatorio de cuatro novelas cortas anteriormente publicadas y que conforman esta historia, pero eso, debo decir que Beth Bracken y Kay Fraser han creado un buen inicio para la trilogía y que nos introduce totalmente en la trama y crea la necesidad de saber por lo que deberán pasar nuestras amigas en los siguientes libros.
Pero la verdad es que me sorprendió un poco la historia, sí suena raro pero me explico: al principio pensé que sería una historia clásica, de esas de hadas lindas y encantamientos; pero el concepto cambió completamente en cuanto comencé a leer.
La historia se centra en Soli y Lucy, dos amigas, las mejores amigas, inseparables, dos chicas con personalidades diferentes pero complementarias a la vez. Ellas son las protagonistas de esta historia. Son dos personajes fuertes, con unas personalidades muy bien definidas y que demuestran tener una gran decisión ante las pruebas u obstáculos que se les puedan presentar.
La trama nos muestra como un deseo (de ahí el título), en el momento más inoportuno y debido a un enfado entre amigas, puede cambiar sus vidas, llevándolas a Faerieground (el reino de las hadas) donde demostrarán que son fieles a su amistad por encima de todo.
A lo largo de la historia, la relación entre las chicas cambia en varias ocasiones, según los acontecimientos, pero siempre está descrita de una manera realista y cercana (con la cual una se puede identificar) lo que le da un enfoque real combinado a la perfección con el trasfondo fantástico que contiene la historia.
Y si hablamos de Faerieground, no todo es lo que parece...
Las chicas llegan a un mundo donde las hadas, por muy perfectas que nos pudieran parecer, no lo son tanto; un mundo donde todos pensaríamos que sólo hay claridad pero también existe la oscuridad (como en cualquier mundo, ¿verdad).
Allí está Calandra, la reina malvada que (como dice la sinopsis) busca a su hija, arrebatada cuando era pequeña y necesaria para sus propios propósitos. Para mí, ella es uno de esos personajes malvados que son así por las circunstancias que la rodean pero a la vez no tiene perdón por ser como es. Pero donde hay malos, también hay buena gente como Kheelan, un chico hada (nunca he sabido como decir correctamente el masculino de hada...) que intentará ayudar a las amigas a escapar de las garras de la reina.
Como veis la historia lo tiene todo. En su conjunto está narrada de una forma sencilla, que debo suponer que es debido al público objetivo, y entre sus palabras, esconde varios mensajes para los más jóvenes que la lean, pero quizás lo que más se debería destacar son las ilustraciones de Odessa Sawyer, que son páginas completas a todo color de los eventos de la historia y páginas extras decoradas con motivos florales para complementar la decoración de la edición que hacen que la obra en su conjunto sea preciosa y merezca la pena echarle un vistazo y para disfrutar plenamente de ella.
Debemos recordar que es el primer libro de una trilogía, y además es un recopilatorio de cuatro novelas cortas anteriormente publicadas y que conforman esta historia, pero eso, debo decir que Beth Bracken y Kay Fraser han creado un buen inicio para la trilogía y que nos introduce totalmente en la trama y crea la necesidad de saber por lo que deberán pasar nuestras amigas en los siguientes libros.
August 3, 2013
I have never read another story quite like this one. The book itself looks very long, but it isn't. It is precisely as long as it needs to be. The chapters of this book are rather short, the longest being maybe four or five pages. And, as short as the chapters are, the writing is not your usual pages filled with words top to bottom type of writing. Beth Bracken and Kay Fraser have sparse sentences and dialogue intermixed with the most amazing artwork by Odessa Sawyer. With all that said, it is one of the most well-written books I've read to date.
I know that saying the authors have done something that is practically perfect seems both unrealistic, and also holds the authors to a pretty high standard, but I'm unsure how else to describe it. When flipping through the book before starting it, seeing how sparse the written word was, I was skeptical that it would be a full, well-rounded story. However, I was glad that I was wrong. They've written precisely what they've needed to in order to grab the reader, hold their attention, and develop the world without adding any unnecessary (or even semi-necessary) fluff. It was a seriously refreshing change of pace for me.
As I've already mentioned, the artwork throughout the entire book is simply mesmerizing, and even now that I've finished it, I find myself going back through and studying the subtle details. Pay attention to it on your first read-through, however. It is an integral part of the story. It helps convey the emotion, the contrast between dark and light, and the true fantasy of the faerie world.
The entire story you flip (chapter-to-chapter for the most part) between two best friends', Soli and Lucy's, points of view. Soli, the quiet, shy one who prefers to stay in the shadows while Lucy, the bright, vibrant, social butterfly soars and excels in what she does. As the story progresses, you'll be pleasantly surprised as Soli comes to know her personal strength and Lucy gets to see her friend blossom. Even that back and forth style of writing was a refreshing change from most of my more recent reads.
There is love in this story, and it the main reason the ball starts rolling down the slippery slope into the Faerieground, but it is not necessarily a romantic "love story." It's more a story of self-discovery with some romantic undertones. The true love in this story is the love of two best friends, who are more like sisters and two halves of a whole.
While this is aimed at middle grade readers, I think just about anyone who loves and believes in faeries will adore this story.
Also, there is a sneak peek of the next book in the Faerieground series at the end and it promises to be just as wonderful and refreshing as the first!
I know that saying the authors have done something that is practically perfect seems both unrealistic, and also holds the authors to a pretty high standard, but I'm unsure how else to describe it. When flipping through the book before starting it, seeing how sparse the written word was, I was skeptical that it would be a full, well-rounded story. However, I was glad that I was wrong. They've written precisely what they've needed to in order to grab the reader, hold their attention, and develop the world without adding any unnecessary (or even semi-necessary) fluff. It was a seriously refreshing change of pace for me.
As I've already mentioned, the artwork throughout the entire book is simply mesmerizing, and even now that I've finished it, I find myself going back through and studying the subtle details. Pay attention to it on your first read-through, however. It is an integral part of the story. It helps convey the emotion, the contrast between dark and light, and the true fantasy of the faerie world.
The entire story you flip (chapter-to-chapter for the most part) between two best friends', Soli and Lucy's, points of view. Soli, the quiet, shy one who prefers to stay in the shadows while Lucy, the bright, vibrant, social butterfly soars and excels in what she does. As the story progresses, you'll be pleasantly surprised as Soli comes to know her personal strength and Lucy gets to see her friend blossom. Even that back and forth style of writing was a refreshing change from most of my more recent reads.
There is love in this story, and it the main reason the ball starts rolling down the slippery slope into the Faerieground, but it is not necessarily a romantic "love story." It's more a story of self-discovery with some romantic undertones. The true love in this story is the love of two best friends, who are more like sisters and two halves of a whole.
While this is aimed at middle grade readers, I think just about anyone who loves and believes in faeries will adore this story.
Also, there is a sneak peek of the next book in the Faerieground series at the end and it promises to be just as wonderful and refreshing as the first!
May 4, 2013
Review Posted on Reading Lark 5/4/13: http://readinglark.blogspot.com/2013/...
Wish is an imaginative journey that thrusts best friends, Soli and Lucy, into a magical world they never knew existed. The girls have been virtually inseparable their entire lives, but as they start to pay attention to things like popularity and boys, the girls begin to drift apart. Lucy is full of light and craves fun and freedom; Soli is represented by darkness and she often hides in her introverted world. The way each girl approaches the world is different, but together they balance one another out. Lucy brings Soli out of her shell while Soli forces Lucy to slow down and pay attention. I really enjoyed the friendship between these girls and felt it had an authentic feel to it. It's hard to grow up and grow apart from your childhood friends. While these two desperately cling to the past and try to preserve their friendship, it is easy to see that they are suffering from some growing pains.
An argument leads the girls to the forest where a faerie kingdom lurks unseen from human eyes. An accidental wish will throw the girls into the world of the fey and forever change their lives. They will find that they must find their true strength in order to vanquish a formidable foe.
I found this world to be interesting and descriptive. The authors also did a beautiful job of capturing the angst and frustration of the early teen years. Each character is trying to find out who she is and assert her personality. This is one of the most difficult and trying times of life. It's hard to feel uncomfortable in your own skin as you navigate the current of adolescence. I particularly loved that the main characters were so different - it allows for readers to be able to bond with one or the other. I found that I enjoyed both of them in spite of Lucy's betrayal.
The true strength of this novel lies in its format. The novel is written in a style that feels like a combination of verse and prose. It was slightly jarring at first, but once I settled into it, I found that it was a gorgeous and lyrical way to tell this story. It also adds a uniqueness to the novel. Furthermore, the illustrations alone make this worth your time. They are absolutely stunning. I found myself reading faster just to get to the next picture.
One Last Gripe: The writing was beautiful, but a bit sparse at times.
My Favorite Thing About the Book: The illustrations
First Sentence: Long ago, a kingdom was founded in Willow Forest...
Favorite Character: Soli
Least Favorite Character: I didn't have one. The book went by too quickly to form an intense dislike of anyone.
Wish is an imaginative journey that thrusts best friends, Soli and Lucy, into a magical world they never knew existed. The girls have been virtually inseparable their entire lives, but as they start to pay attention to things like popularity and boys, the girls begin to drift apart. Lucy is full of light and craves fun and freedom; Soli is represented by darkness and she often hides in her introverted world. The way each girl approaches the world is different, but together they balance one another out. Lucy brings Soli out of her shell while Soli forces Lucy to slow down and pay attention. I really enjoyed the friendship between these girls and felt it had an authentic feel to it. It's hard to grow up and grow apart from your childhood friends. While these two desperately cling to the past and try to preserve their friendship, it is easy to see that they are suffering from some growing pains.
An argument leads the girls to the forest where a faerie kingdom lurks unseen from human eyes. An accidental wish will throw the girls into the world of the fey and forever change their lives. They will find that they must find their true strength in order to vanquish a formidable foe.
I found this world to be interesting and descriptive. The authors also did a beautiful job of capturing the angst and frustration of the early teen years. Each character is trying to find out who she is and assert her personality. This is one of the most difficult and trying times of life. It's hard to feel uncomfortable in your own skin as you navigate the current of adolescence. I particularly loved that the main characters were so different - it allows for readers to be able to bond with one or the other. I found that I enjoyed both of them in spite of Lucy's betrayal.
The true strength of this novel lies in its format. The novel is written in a style that feels like a combination of verse and prose. It was slightly jarring at first, but once I settled into it, I found that it was a gorgeous and lyrical way to tell this story. It also adds a uniqueness to the novel. Furthermore, the illustrations alone make this worth your time. They are absolutely stunning. I found myself reading faster just to get to the next picture.
One Last Gripe: The writing was beautiful, but a bit sparse at times.
My Favorite Thing About the Book: The illustrations
First Sentence: Long ago, a kingdom was founded in Willow Forest...
Favorite Character: Soli
Least Favorite Character: I didn't have one. The book went by too quickly to form an intense dislike of anyone.
February 2, 2013
First, the illustrations are gorgeous. They're captivating and beautiful. I think I spent more time looking at the illustrations than the text. They're definitely the best part of the book.
I wish the same could be said of the characterization and plot of Wish. However, the book read like a poorly fleshed out outline than a well developed book. It relied too much on the illustrations.
The issues with characterization are never more obvious than when you compare the boy that Soli likes (Jaleel) and the boy she kisses (Khaleen). Jaleel (who we never meet) is kind. He helps people and interacts with shy peers. He plays sports. He's tall. Khaleen? He's a faerie? That's all I got. Surely, if you're going to add romance, you should at least make me try to be invested in the relationship. I don't. I don't care about Khaleen and Soli. I don't even think they have a relationship, there's not enough history (but it's obviously still going strong because he shows up in the preview for book 2).
Soli and Lucy never fully develop as characters either. And it's a shame, especially because there are going to be more books. Without a strong plot and strong characters, the series is doomed. Not even the gorgeous illustrations can save it.
Thanks for NetGalley for the preview.
I wish the same could be said of the characterization and plot of Wish. However, the book read like a poorly fleshed out outline than a well developed book. It relied too much on the illustrations.
The issues with characterization are never more obvious than when you compare the boy that Soli likes (Jaleel) and the boy she kisses (Khaleen). Jaleel (who we never meet) is kind. He helps people and interacts with shy peers. He plays sports. He's tall. Khaleen? He's a faerie? That's all I got. Surely, if you're going to add romance, you should at least make me try to be invested in the relationship. I don't. I don't care about Khaleen and Soli. I don't even think they have a relationship, there's not enough history (but it's obviously still going strong because he shows up in the preview for book 2).
Soli and Lucy never fully develop as characters either. And it's a shame, especially because there are going to be more books. Without a strong plot and strong characters, the series is doomed. Not even the gorgeous illustrations can save it.
Thanks for NetGalley for the preview.
June 6, 2013
First off I would like to say that yes this is younger than YA. But I like to do younger reviews here and there.
I would like to say that the art in this book is beautiful and I have to say the best part of the book. It is was beautiful and creative.it was a very cool mix of different kinds of art and I think that readers will love it. The whole art of books and the way it is done makes me think of books like Hugo and Wonderstruck.I feel that many fans of those books will love this.I had read in some reviews that people found this book better than Wonderstuck or Hugo and I have to disagree. This book was very good but I think that those are beautiful masterpieces.BUt I really liked this one. It had a very real feeling behind it. I have to say that I love how its told from both girls point of views. It adds a nice almost poem like feel to the book.I liked a lot of things about this book and feel that younger readers would like it as well. It would be a great book for young readers who do not like to read yet and like darker fairy stories. There is something really cool here with the friendship and the way that the story is told. I think that it is one that girls will fall in love with. I find it so nice to read a story for young girls that tells them how much they can hurt a friend when they kiss or flirt with their friends crush. Its handled very nicely in this book.
But to tell the truth I was rather let down by the end. I was hoping for something ... different. I felt like the book had such a good start that I would have liked a good ending as well. And one that did not just lead in the next book.I wish that there might have been a little twist. Something that I did not see coming.
Still I feel like young readers will really like it. I know I would have when I was younger. It would make a wonderful gift.
( Kids - 8 and up)
Stars: * * 2.9
I was given a copy of the book by the publisher. This did not in anyway effect my review or thoughts on the book.
I would like to say that the art in this book is beautiful and I have to say the best part of the book. It is was beautiful and creative.it was a very cool mix of different kinds of art and I think that readers will love it. The whole art of books and the way it is done makes me think of books like Hugo and Wonderstruck.I feel that many fans of those books will love this.I had read in some reviews that people found this book better than Wonderstuck or Hugo and I have to disagree. This book was very good but I think that those are beautiful masterpieces.BUt I really liked this one. It had a very real feeling behind it. I have to say that I love how its told from both girls point of views. It adds a nice almost poem like feel to the book.I liked a lot of things about this book and feel that younger readers would like it as well. It would be a great book for young readers who do not like to read yet and like darker fairy stories. There is something really cool here with the friendship and the way that the story is told. I think that it is one that girls will fall in love with. I find it so nice to read a story for young girls that tells them how much they can hurt a friend when they kiss or flirt with their friends crush. Its handled very nicely in this book.
But to tell the truth I was rather let down by the end. I was hoping for something ... different. I felt like the book had such a good start that I would have liked a good ending as well. And one that did not just lead in the next book.I wish that there might have been a little twist. Something that I did not see coming.
Still I feel like young readers will really like it. I know I would have when I was younger. It would make a wonderful gift.
( Kids - 8 and up)
Stars: * * 2.9
I was given a copy of the book by the publisher. This did not in anyway effect my review or thoughts on the book.
April 16, 2013
This book is such a quick and cute read! Although it is obviously geared toward younger readers, fantasy lovers of all ages will love the illustrations and messages presented in Wish! I flew through it in just a few short hours because half of the book is full-page illustrations of the characters and events of the story. I loved the visual presentation of the fairy world, the dynamic between Lucy and Soli, and the fact that both fantastical and real-life issues were addressed throughout the novel!
The entire plot of the novel only happens because of a simple fight between best friends over a boy, something that most female readers would be able to relate to. Because the opening of the book is grounded in realism, that only enhances Wish and makes it especially useful to younger readers. Lucy and Soli remain loyal to each other, even if they are angry, and I think that seeing these strong characters facing obstacles they never could have imagined before.
I do with that there was a little more writing because there are spaces on the pages where more dialogue and description could have been added, though I'm assuming that that was avoided in favor of the fantastical drawings. While those were definitely my favorite part of the novel and what makes it so incredibly unique and fun, I really wished that the ending could have been less abrupt and more well-rounded, though of course now I'll need to go on to read the next book! I can't wait to see what else happens in the Faerieground and what adventures Soli and Lucy might have!
I'd recommend Wish to anyone, young and old. Fairy lovers, especially, or people who love fairy tale worlds will love this book!
The entire plot of the novel only happens because of a simple fight between best friends over a boy, something that most female readers would be able to relate to. Because the opening of the book is grounded in realism, that only enhances Wish and makes it especially useful to younger readers. Lucy and Soli remain loyal to each other, even if they are angry, and I think that seeing these strong characters facing obstacles they never could have imagined before.
I do with that there was a little more writing because there are spaces on the pages where more dialogue and description could have been added, though I'm assuming that that was avoided in favor of the fantastical drawings. While those were definitely my favorite part of the novel and what makes it so incredibly unique and fun, I really wished that the ending could have been less abrupt and more well-rounded, though of course now I'll need to go on to read the next book! I can't wait to see what else happens in the Faerieground and what adventures Soli and Lucy might have!
I'd recommend Wish to anyone, young and old. Fairy lovers, especially, or people who love fairy tale worlds will love this book!
July 1, 2013
3.5 Stars
Wish: Faerieground is the first book on a series of four about Soli and Lucy. I enjoyed it.
Lucy is light, while Soli is dark. They are thirteen, best friends and complete opposites. They have played in the woods all their lives; it’s their secret shortcut, even though Lucy’s mom has warned them to not go there. One day, Soli makes a wish that has rather big repercussions.
Beautiful art!
This is the start of their adventure, as they encounter very different fates while in Faerieground. These faeries are not the Tinker Bell type, they are quite scary and mean. Especially Queen Calandra, she is awful.
At the end, Lucy and Soli turned out to be good friends and look out for each other, trying hard to do everything possible to overcome the mess they got themselves into. Kheelan is also a faery, but he seems to be a good one and he took an instant liking to Soli. Since the book is not lengthy, the characters were a little hard to get to know, mainly because we are told about them and their relationship, instead of shown, for instance by the use of flashback or dialogue.
Faerieground is really easy to read and it’s short. In fact, I found it too short, but I understand that more is to come in the series. The story is told from alternating points of view, in the first person from Lucy and Soli’s perspective. The plot is simple and a bit predictable, but I’m eager to see what happens next. One of the best things about the book is the amazingly beautiful illustrations. Overall, Wish: Faerieground is a short, entertaining read.
About the cover: The cover is really pretty, as are all the illustrations in the book.
Wish: Faerieground is the first book on a series of four about Soli and Lucy. I enjoyed it.
Lucy is light, while Soli is dark. They are thirteen, best friends and complete opposites. They have played in the woods all their lives; it’s their secret shortcut, even though Lucy’s mom has warned them to not go there. One day, Soli makes a wish that has rather big repercussions.
Beautiful art!
This is the start of their adventure, as they encounter very different fates while in Faerieground. These faeries are not the Tinker Bell type, they are quite scary and mean. Especially Queen Calandra, she is awful.
At the end, Lucy and Soli turned out to be good friends and look out for each other, trying hard to do everything possible to overcome the mess they got themselves into. Kheelan is also a faery, but he seems to be a good one and he took an instant liking to Soli. Since the book is not lengthy, the characters were a little hard to get to know, mainly because we are told about them and their relationship, instead of shown, for instance by the use of flashback or dialogue.
Faerieground is really easy to read and it’s short. In fact, I found it too short, but I understand that more is to come in the series. The story is told from alternating points of view, in the first person from Lucy and Soli’s perspective. The plot is simple and a bit predictable, but I’m eager to see what happens next. One of the best things about the book is the amazingly beautiful illustrations. Overall, Wish: Faerieground is a short, entertaining read.
About the cover: The cover is really pretty, as are all the illustrations in the book.
April 11, 2013
‘Wish’ is the story of best friends, betrayal, and the cost of wishing in the woods. There is no Lucy without Soli and no Soli without Lucy, but when Lucy is caught kissing the one boy Soli is interested in again, all bets are off. Soli runs off through the Willow Forest and Lucy follows behind. For all their life, Lucy has kept Soli from wishing in the woods and kept her from believing in the Faerie stories Lucy’s mother tells them both. But on this day, Lucy is unable to stop Soli and Soli wishes Lucy away. Lucy arrives in Faerieground and is now a pawn in a plot of the Faerie Queen’s to solidify her power. Soli must now venture to Faerieground to save her best friend and almost-sister, Lucy. Soli doesn’t have all of the information and doesn’t realize her true strength and potential…yet.
‘Wish’ is a short faerie-tale as it only took me 15 minutes to read it, but the detailed imagination of the authors and the beautifully rich illustrations transport the reader to Faerieground itself. I can see this story for late elementary/early middle school readers and, of course, anyone with a love of faerie tales. I enjoyed the dynamic between Soli and Lucy and the changes they went through personally and together during this story. A testament to the bonds of love, family, and friendship, ‘Wish’ contains some very important life lessons for kids of all ages.
Faerieground Series: Wish (1)
‘Wish’ is a short faerie-tale as it only took me 15 minutes to read it, but the detailed imagination of the authors and the beautifully rich illustrations transport the reader to Faerieground itself. I can see this story for late elementary/early middle school readers and, of course, anyone with a love of faerie tales. I enjoyed the dynamic between Soli and Lucy and the changes they went through personally and together during this story. A testament to the bonds of love, family, and friendship, ‘Wish’ contains some very important life lessons for kids of all ages.
Faerieground Series: Wish (1)
July 14, 2013
Soli and Lucy were best friends and they've been that way for a very longtime. They even play together in the Willow Forest, a beautiful, old and scary place. They've been warned not to because of the legend of Faeriground. This is the place where faeries live and if you make a wish there it will come true.
Soli felt as though Lucy was the light and she was always the dark, always in the shadows. Lucy felt that her mother cared more for Soli and treated her better. Lucy had tried to get Soli to be more outgoing and to be in the light like her. Each of the girls felt the other was like a sister, that is until Jaleel.
Both girls liked this cute boy who is new to the school. Both have had a simple encounter or conversation with him. Both felt like he could be their world if only for a moment. When Soli witnessed Jaleel kissing Lucy, she was hurt and felt betrayed. So much so that in the forest Soli wished Lucy away and she was taken by the faeries. The only way Soli can get her back is to see the Queen of the faeries. The Queen herself had something in mind for Soli, but will Soli have the courage to do what it takes to bring Lucy home?
Bracken and Fraser have created a mystical story that is unique because of the magical illustrations placed on just about every page. It reads like a simple story but the depth of the characters is very engaging. A fast read, young readers more than likely girls, will be enchanted by the story of friendship.
Soli felt as though Lucy was the light and she was always the dark, always in the shadows. Lucy felt that her mother cared more for Soli and treated her better. Lucy had tried to get Soli to be more outgoing and to be in the light like her. Each of the girls felt the other was like a sister, that is until Jaleel.
Both girls liked this cute boy who is new to the school. Both have had a simple encounter or conversation with him. Both felt like he could be their world if only for a moment. When Soli witnessed Jaleel kissing Lucy, she was hurt and felt betrayed. So much so that in the forest Soli wished Lucy away and she was taken by the faeries. The only way Soli can get her back is to see the Queen of the faeries. The Queen herself had something in mind for Soli, but will Soli have the courage to do what it takes to bring Lucy home?
Bracken and Fraser have created a mystical story that is unique because of the magical illustrations placed on just about every page. It reads like a simple story but the depth of the characters is very engaging. A fast read, young readers more than likely girls, will be enchanted by the story of friendship.
September 25, 2013
The illustrations in Wish are beautiful and will captivate the imagination of a young reader. (Or an old one like me.;) The flow of the book is a little disjointed due to it being told in alternating points of view between the two main characters, Lucy and Soli. It did not completely detract me from wanting to finish it though as the actual story line, while predictable, was engaging and held my interest. The characters are kind of one dimensional and overall I'd say the story is a little flat. But with all that said, I still enjoyed the quick pace of the story and the illustrations to linger over every few pages.
Book one ties up nicely but with an excerpt for book 2 at the end, it definitely made me want to see how they keep this going.
Recommending this to a certain age is a little hard as there is conflict here between two very close friends over a boy and some of the illustrations are very dark. Yet the text and flow are definitely written for a more intensive needs reader or a younger aged reader. I would say that this could be perfect for an early middle grade reader (4th or 5th grade) that may struggle with large volume text and heavier content, but would like a larger book to read. Plus, the fact that it is a series could possibly help engage a reluctant reader on a more long term basis.
Book one ties up nicely but with an excerpt for book 2 at the end, it definitely made me want to see how they keep this going.
Recommending this to a certain age is a little hard as there is conflict here between two very close friends over a boy and some of the illustrations are very dark. Yet the text and flow are definitely written for a more intensive needs reader or a younger aged reader. I would say that this could be perfect for an early middle grade reader (4th or 5th grade) that may struggle with large volume text and heavier content, but would like a larger book to read. Plus, the fact that it is a series could possibly help engage a reluctant reader on a more long term basis.
December 12, 2013
Friendships aren't always smooth and fun and exciting, as we all know. They take understanding, dedication, and time, and even then, sometimes they fail. In Wish, a friendship is thoroughly tested through magic, separation and hurt feelings. Soli and Lucy have been best friends for years, but when one of them kisses the guy that the other one like, it nearly destroys their close bond. When Soli makes a very reckless wish, Lucy disappears. She becomes a prisoners of some very frightening fae. Both girls learn more about themselves as Soli seeks to rescue Lucy.
Overall, this is a decent tale of friendship, love and the bonds between people, with a good deal of magic thrown in. The story was sort of slow, and the images seemed mostly static and a little lifeless, though they were very pretty. I liked the design of the fae creatures in this book; they were more like the scary, slightly creepy faerie folk of old stories instead of the sprightly, perky, wand-wielding sprites of today's tales. I sort of prefer the somewhat scary versions, and the story had some properly villainous fair folk. Heck yeah. Preteen girls are most likely the best audience for this book, and upper elementary students with an interest in fairytales will probably enjoy it.
Overall, this is a decent tale of friendship, love and the bonds between people, with a good deal of magic thrown in. The story was sort of slow, and the images seemed mostly static and a little lifeless, though they were very pretty. I liked the design of the fae creatures in this book; they were more like the scary, slightly creepy faerie folk of old stories instead of the sprightly, perky, wand-wielding sprites of today's tales. I sort of prefer the somewhat scary versions, and the story had some properly villainous fair folk. Heck yeah. Preteen girls are most likely the best audience for this book, and upper elementary students with an interest in fairytales will probably enjoy it.
November 3, 2016
Lucy and Soledad have grown up almost as close as sisters. Lucy, though, likes being out in the light, having lots of friends and going to parties. Soli prefers the shadows, which she finds plenty of in the woods that Lucy’s mother has always told them to stay out of. When Lucy kisses a boy she knows Soli likes, and Soli finds out, she flees to the woods. Lucy follows and they argue, then Soli wishes her away. What Soli doesn’t know, though, is that Lucy’s mother—who always told them faeries were real—is right, and a wish made in the woods is considered sacred to the faeries. Lucy vanishes, and it’s up to Soli to set things right.
I both liked and didn't like this one. I liked the setup with the characters, and the typical problem of girls who like the same boy and betray each other over him--felt like a good setup for a problem novel. The part in the forest just didn't work for me, though. Such a grim fantasy world, no fun at all, and the villain wasn't all that scary in the end--kind of just folded with little effort. Also, I loathed the illustrations. I think they were trying to emulate the Ralph Bakshi animation in the 1970s Lord of the Rings movies--to me, it looked as though the pictures had been buried in forest dirt for a couple of years, then burned. Not attractive.
I both liked and didn't like this one. I liked the setup with the characters, and the typical problem of girls who like the same boy and betray each other over him--felt like a good setup for a problem novel. The part in the forest just didn't work for me, though. Such a grim fantasy world, no fun at all, and the villain wasn't all that scary in the end--kind of just folded with little effort. Also, I loathed the illustrations. I think they were trying to emulate the Ralph Bakshi animation in the 1970s Lord of the Rings movies--to me, it looked as though the pictures had been buried in forest dirt for a couple of years, then burned. Not attractive.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2013
Background: Willow Forest is a mysterious and magical place and Soli and Lucy have been told never to wish while there. The forest has a connection to Faeries and they will make your wishes come true, only not as you intended them. When Lucy betrays Soli, Soli accidentally makes a wish while in the forest and her friend becomes trapped in Faerieground. It is up to Soli to retrieve Lucy and right everything.
Review: I really enjoyed this read. It was beautifully illustrated and I have a love for all things faerie, so it was right up my alley. The text is interspersed with vibrant and realistic illustrations of the girls and their events and the story is set up more like a short story/ graphic novel combination. The lines of text are very short and to the point, make wonderfully for young readers. The story really embraces the 'be careful what you wish for' theme to the extreme and the idea that friendships should withstand even the most trying of circumstances.
The images along with the story are absolutely captivating and it is only the first in this easy to read and beautiful series. I recommend it for lovers of short stories, faeries, and middle grade readers.
Review: I really enjoyed this read. It was beautifully illustrated and I have a love for all things faerie, so it was right up my alley. The text is interspersed with vibrant and realistic illustrations of the girls and their events and the story is set up more like a short story/ graphic novel combination. The lines of text are very short and to the point, make wonderfully for young readers. The story really embraces the 'be careful what you wish for' theme to the extreme and the idea that friendships should withstand even the most trying of circumstances.
The images along with the story are absolutely captivating and it is only the first in this easy to read and beautiful series. I recommend it for lovers of short stories, faeries, and middle grade readers.
October 14, 2013
Lucy and Soli are best friends—opposite as day and night. One boy between them leads to jealously and betrayal. One careless wish makes a girl captive of the faerie kingdom deep in Willow Forest. The faeries are not as imagined. They are scarier and meaner. The terrifying faerie queen will release her prisoner for a tremendous price. What will it take for one girl to rescue her best friend? Be careful what you wish for.
This story reads like the enchanting fairy tale that it is. The authors concisely tell a complex story of friendship, heartache and discovery. Minimal text on each page allows the illustrations to complement and intensify the story. With magical fireflies, four-leaf clovers, and Ladybird seerers, this page-turner is a delight for young readers and will have them impatiently waiting for the next installment.
Why I picked it up: I don’t read many books featuring faeries and thought to give this one a try. This was a NetGalley ARC read.
Why I finished it: I started this as an ebook, and then waited to get the hardcover. The illustrations (and text layout) were beautiful and the electronic version just did not do it justice.
This story reads like the enchanting fairy tale that it is. The authors concisely tell a complex story of friendship, heartache and discovery. Minimal text on each page allows the illustrations to complement and intensify the story. With magical fireflies, four-leaf clovers, and Ladybird seerers, this page-turner is a delight for young readers and will have them impatiently waiting for the next installment.
Why I picked it up: I don’t read many books featuring faeries and thought to give this one a try. This was a NetGalley ARC read.
Why I finished it: I started this as an ebook, and then waited to get the hardcover. The illustrations (and text layout) were beautiful and the electronic version just did not do it justice.
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