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Magora #2
The Golden Maple Tree (Magora) (Volume 2) by Marc Remus
At the end of a boring summer in her un-magical hometown, Holly O’Flanigan is eager to return to the parallel world of Magora. Holly’s nosy neighbor, Ms. Hubbleworth, has been missing for a year, and Holly and her friends, Brian, Rufus, and Amanda, know where she is. A year ago, they left the real world together and entered Magora via a painting Holly’s late grandfather created. When Holly and her friends head back to Magora to enroll for their second year at Cliffony Academy of the Arts, Holly finds out that her friend Ileana is severely ill. She suffers from a disease that dissolves her blood and turns her back into what she was before—a so-called Unfinished, an incomplete, painted creature that drains the blood of others to become whole. Holly tries to find a cure, but in vain—Ileana’s illness is progressing. While Holly continues to donate blood to keep Ileana stable and the new school year starts, she meets Ms. Hubbleworth again. Surprisingly, her nosy neighbor has no knowledge of her old life back in the real world and seems fully immersed in her position as a teacher at the art academy. When Holly learns that the leaves of a mysterious Golden Maple Tree could cure Ileana’s illness, she begins her search for the tree and discovers an ancient monastery where the dangerous blood-sucking Unfinished live. But Holly’s best friend Rufus is kidnapped and taken to the monastery. With her other friends in tow, Holly enters into a fierce battle against the Unfinished to free Rufus and collect the leaves of the Golden Maple Tree to cure Ileana. In the process, Holly learns the truth behind Ms. Hubbleworth’s memory loss—changing everything Holly thought she knew about Magora.
- GenresMiddle GradeFantasy
Paperback
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About the author
Marc Remus
32 books26 followersMarc Remus is an award-winning German painter and author. His books have received many literary awards and have been translated into Chinese, Dutch, German, Italian, Spanish, and Norwegian.
Remus was educated in the United States, graduated with a BA in art and illustration from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA, and lived in Japan and Central America for some years. He has travelled to more than sixty countries and visited over a thousand cities, of which he has painted over two hundred. His work has been featured on TV and in many magazines and newspapers in Germany, USA, and Mexico.
During his art studies in California in the 1990s, Remus took his first children’s book illustration class. His college teacher inspired him to start writing and not just illustrating. The result was a picture book called Painting Brian, which led to his first book and eventually to the Magora series. In the early 2000s, Remus studied for four years at the Institute of Children’s Literature. In 2016 the Magora book, which he had initially written more than twenty years before, was finally published. During the five years that followed, eight more books were published, and Remus received many literary awards for his achievements.
Having a sweet tooth since childhood, Remus embarked on a new journey in 2019. Surrounded by many overweight friends and family members, Remus came up with an idea to teach children a healthy way of eating without preaching. This idea resulted in The Chocolate Clouds.
Today, Marc Remus continues to work on new children’s books while spending much of his time on a Greek island, studying Greek and Mandarin.
Remus was educated in the United States, graduated with a BA in art and illustration from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA, and lived in Japan and Central America for some years. He has travelled to more than sixty countries and visited over a thousand cities, of which he has painted over two hundred. His work has been featured on TV and in many magazines and newspapers in Germany, USA, and Mexico.
During his art studies in California in the 1990s, Remus took his first children’s book illustration class. His college teacher inspired him to start writing and not just illustrating. The result was a picture book called Painting Brian, which led to his first book and eventually to the Magora series. In the early 2000s, Remus studied for four years at the Institute of Children’s Literature. In 2016 the Magora book, which he had initially written more than twenty years before, was finally published. During the five years that followed, eight more books were published, and Remus received many literary awards for his achievements.
Having a sweet tooth since childhood, Remus embarked on a new journey in 2019. Surrounded by many overweight friends and family members, Remus came up with an idea to teach children a healthy way of eating without preaching. This idea resulted in The Chocolate Clouds.
Today, Marc Remus continues to work on new children’s books while spending much of his time on a Greek island, studying Greek and Mandarin.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 21, 2018
The second book in the
Magora Series, The Golden Maple Tree,
continues the adventure of Holly and her friends in the magical world of Magora. When I was given the chance to read the first and second installment in this series, I can't help but compare it to the
Chronicles of Narnia
and
the Harry Potter
series, much more to the latter.
When I've read the term "Unfinished" in this second installment, I reckon that the author's inspirations are the Muggle-born and the dementors in the Harry Potter series ; I distinguished a lot of similarities or sort of influence from J.K. Rowling's re-known book series. Holly O' Flanigan reminds me of Harry because their life story is quite the same and that they have friends who help them through thick and thin. Not to mention that their personalities are pretty much similar because of how determined they are on helping, even if their safety is at stake.
Although that there might have some resemblances to other novels, the books in the Magora series still has its own identity and a quite surprising middle-grade series that will readers find really enjoyable.
When I've read the term "Unfinished" in this second installment, I reckon that the author's inspirations are the Muggle-born and the dementors in the Harry Potter series ; I distinguished a lot of similarities or sort of influence from J.K. Rowling's re-known book series. Holly O' Flanigan reminds me of Harry because their life story is quite the same and that they have friends who help them through thick and thin. Not to mention that their personalities are pretty much similar because of how determined they are on helping, even if their safety is at stake.
Although that there might have some resemblances to other novels, the books in the Magora series still has its own identity and a quite surprising middle-grade series that will readers find really enjoyable.
April 23, 2016
I have read both books in the series and loved them! While the first book bore some resemblance to the Harry Potter series, in the second book the similarities are gone. The author weaves together an excellent, unique book with some original ideas. The story is a wonderful adventure written for children and adults alike. It's a novel full of magic, adventures, and friendships! Very, very enjoyable book, and I'm looking forward to reading more in this series!
May 29, 2017
"Painting and writing are both products of creativity. Even though the two seem different, they are more similar than we think."
Magora: The Golden Maple Tree is the second instalment in the middle grade-to-young adult Magora series by artist, painter and author Mark Remus. It can be easily read as a standalone, but has prompted me to immediately pick up the first book Magora: The Hall of Wonders.
If you're a fan of the Harry Potter and Chronicles of Narnia books OR movies, then you'll love the Magora series, which has its own flavour. There are a few characters that you can relate to from other books, like Rufus who is a very Hermione Granger kind-of character, but Magora and its main protagonist Holly have their own character.
Every chapter begins with a short note from the author about creating, art, writing, or something on this line. The book opens with: "When you paint, you create. When you write, you create. When you imagine, you create. We create every day, even when we fear we can't create anything anymore."
Magora: The Golden Maple Tree opens with a backdrop of what happened the previous year or book: "A year ago, Holly had jumped into a fantasy painting that had been created by her grandfather, Nikolas."
The reader also learns about Cuspidor, who has evil fire-breathing seahorses as his minions, and who has been tracking Holly and trying to get her blood.
The central character of the series is Holly O'Flannigan who is joined by her three friends Rufus, Brian and Amanda. The four are transported to the world of Magora through a painting, where they learn that everything is related to art and drawing. They attend Cliffony Academy, where their tools are paintbrushes, a little reminiscent of magical wands.
As soon as Magora: The Golden Maple Tree begins, Holly and the reader learn that Holly's friend Ileana, a previously "Unfinished" painting who had been "finished" the previous year through blood donations, has resumed her "Unfinished" form and is dying. Quickly, Holly races to gather her three friends and join Professor LePawnee to re-enter Magora.
"Holly felt as if an invisible hand was penetrating her chest, grabbing her heart, and slowly squeezing it like an orange."
Holly admits to her friends that she feels responsible for what her grandfather has done, leaving several "Unfinished" pieces, resulting in a lot of evil taking place in Magora. Still, the reader is not told how Cuspidor came to power and why he seeks to destroy Magora. For a twelve-year-old, Holly carries a lot of weight on her shoulders, making her a fairly grown-up character for her age.
Throughout the book, Holly searches for a way to save her friend. In the meantime, Magora is being attacked by a species called Chandrills. The group of friends learns of a golden maple tree that can both save their world from the pesky beasts and their friend from imminent dissolution.
The book is full of humourous interactions between the characters, while Holly struggles with a possible crush.
"I might get too attached to people here. Because reality is reality and a painting is still a painting. Magora is a fantasy; it will never be real. And I don't think it's a good idea to start believing it could ever be."
We are also told that Holly is a "Gindar", a rare form of artist that can create living beings through painting. However, since the first book, Holly has had her doubts about being a "Gindar" which in turn has put her in the limelight, making people raise the bar of their expectations from her.
The language used is easy and the novel is quick-paced and exciting. Each character has their quirks, but Holly is the star. She has her flaws, misconceptions and is a well-crafted protagonist.
The descriptions of the various games, tasks and adventures is detailed and enjoyable. I couldn't put the book down.
I also liked the theme of friendship prevalent in the novel and how friends stick with each other despite their differences.
As a painter, Marc Remus builds significantly on his career and knowledge, crafting an artistic series. A must-read for all ages.
"Magic only lasts as long as a fantasy world doesn't become everyday life. When routine takes over, the magic pops like a balloon in a fire."
Overall rating: 5 stars
Magora: The Golden Maple Tree is the second instalment in the middle grade-to-young adult Magora series by artist, painter and author Mark Remus. It can be easily read as a standalone, but has prompted me to immediately pick up the first book Magora: The Hall of Wonders.
If you're a fan of the Harry Potter and Chronicles of Narnia books OR movies, then you'll love the Magora series, which has its own flavour. There are a few characters that you can relate to from other books, like Rufus who is a very Hermione Granger kind-of character, but Magora and its main protagonist Holly have their own character.
Every chapter begins with a short note from the author about creating, art, writing, or something on this line. The book opens with: "When you paint, you create. When you write, you create. When you imagine, you create. We create every day, even when we fear we can't create anything anymore."
Magora: The Golden Maple Tree opens with a backdrop of what happened the previous year or book: "A year ago, Holly had jumped into a fantasy painting that had been created by her grandfather, Nikolas."
The reader also learns about Cuspidor, who has evil fire-breathing seahorses as his minions, and who has been tracking Holly and trying to get her blood.
The central character of the series is Holly O'Flannigan who is joined by her three friends Rufus, Brian and Amanda. The four are transported to the world of Magora through a painting, where they learn that everything is related to art and drawing. They attend Cliffony Academy, where their tools are paintbrushes, a little reminiscent of magical wands.
As soon as Magora: The Golden Maple Tree begins, Holly and the reader learn that Holly's friend Ileana, a previously "Unfinished" painting who had been "finished" the previous year through blood donations, has resumed her "Unfinished" form and is dying. Quickly, Holly races to gather her three friends and join Professor LePawnee to re-enter Magora.
"Holly felt as if an invisible hand was penetrating her chest, grabbing her heart, and slowly squeezing it like an orange."
Holly admits to her friends that she feels responsible for what her grandfather has done, leaving several "Unfinished" pieces, resulting in a lot of evil taking place in Magora. Still, the reader is not told how Cuspidor came to power and why he seeks to destroy Magora. For a twelve-year-old, Holly carries a lot of weight on her shoulders, making her a fairly grown-up character for her age.
Throughout the book, Holly searches for a way to save her friend. In the meantime, Magora is being attacked by a species called Chandrills. The group of friends learns of a golden maple tree that can both save their world from the pesky beasts and their friend from imminent dissolution.
The book is full of humourous interactions between the characters, while Holly struggles with a possible crush.
"I might get too attached to people here. Because reality is reality and a painting is still a painting. Magora is a fantasy; it will never be real. And I don't think it's a good idea to start believing it could ever be."
We are also told that Holly is a "Gindar", a rare form of artist that can create living beings through painting. However, since the first book, Holly has had her doubts about being a "Gindar" which in turn has put her in the limelight, making people raise the bar of their expectations from her.
The language used is easy and the novel is quick-paced and exciting. Each character has their quirks, but Holly is the star. She has her flaws, misconceptions and is a well-crafted protagonist.
The descriptions of the various games, tasks and adventures is detailed and enjoyable. I couldn't put the book down.
I also liked the theme of friendship prevalent in the novel and how friends stick with each other despite their differences.
As a painter, Marc Remus builds significantly on his career and knowledge, crafting an artistic series. A must-read for all ages.
"Magic only lasts as long as a fantasy world doesn't become everyday life. When routine takes over, the magic pops like a balloon in a fire."
Overall rating: 5 stars
December 9, 2019
I truly enjoyed this book. After having read the first book in the series I was curious to find out what would happen next and so I read the entire series. Knowing what happens in the 5th book I'm now amazed how well all these threads of the story are woven together. In this book the first indications of the complexity of this series are revelead, even though at a very subtle level. Anybody who loves fantasy, magic and art would enjoy this series. It is written for children but it has a lot to offer for adults as well, especially in the later books.
December 12, 2019
This is a perfect second volume. It doesn't let you down as many follow-up books do.
December 3, 2019
Great second part in the series. Action-filled and easy to read for kids. I'm curious about the third volume.
April 16, 2020
The main children in the story, Holly, Amanda, Rufus, and Brian, were all fairly likable and easy to keep track of. Holly, being the protagonist was given more of a backstory and more time on the pages. Though I did like all these children, I did wish to learn a little bit more of their personalities. Holly and Amanda had some distinct characteristics, but sometimes I found Rufus’s and Brian’s personalities somewhat blurred.
When looking at the plot itself, there wasn’t ever a dull moment. Most times, the pages flew by as the reader followed these children in their fantasy/paint-oriented world of Magora. I did, however, remembered the main the reason why I had a tough time with the first in the series – the resemblance to Harry Potter. I am sure that not everyone would be as nit-picky as I am with this, but Harry Potter is the reason why I love reading, and I’ve read it multiple times throughout the years. Therefore, it’s very challenging to not keep this in mind when reading the first two books in the Magora series. Perhaps it’s the nature of gathering school-aged children in a fantasy-type school away from home, but nonetheless the similarities was something that bothered me.
As the above is a preference, I find that this is a read that many youngsters would enjoy. The theme of friendship is very strong as Holly is willing to sacrifice her well-being and safety to help her friend who is literally fading and may not be able to recover.
Overall, The Golden Maple Tree was a quick read, one that was easy to follow, and I’m sure many children will enjoy. I would recommend this book to youngsters who enjoy reading chapter books that follow a group of children in a magical world.
This book was given for free, courtesy by NetGalley and Misty Moon Books.
https://bookloverblogs.com/2020/04/16...
When looking at the plot itself, there wasn’t ever a dull moment. Most times, the pages flew by as the reader followed these children in their fantasy/paint-oriented world of Magora. I did, however, remembered the main the reason why I had a tough time with the first in the series – the resemblance to Harry Potter. I am sure that not everyone would be as nit-picky as I am with this, but Harry Potter is the reason why I love reading, and I’ve read it multiple times throughout the years. Therefore, it’s very challenging to not keep this in mind when reading the first two books in the Magora series. Perhaps it’s the nature of gathering school-aged children in a fantasy-type school away from home, but nonetheless the similarities was something that bothered me.
As the above is a preference, I find that this is a read that many youngsters would enjoy. The theme of friendship is very strong as Holly is willing to sacrifice her well-being and safety to help her friend who is literally fading and may not be able to recover.
Overall, The Golden Maple Tree was a quick read, one that was easy to follow, and I’m sure many children will enjoy. I would recommend this book to youngsters who enjoy reading chapter books that follow a group of children in a magical world.
This book was given for free, courtesy by NetGalley and Misty Moon Books.
https://bookloverblogs.com/2020/04/16...
April 21, 2018
I highly recommend this series to anyone who is a fan of harry potter or chronicles of narina and has been craving the same feelings from those books. This series fills all the check marks for a great middle grade fantasy. The author is able to describe the world of Magora so effortlessly that you can not help but be lost in the pages of the book. Art and literature are blended so well that you may just find your self wanting to check out your local art gallery. I am a scrapbooker who loves to create and color and i am huge bookworm to have the two hand in hand in a story makes for a delightful series.
November 8, 2017
I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves a great story. The plot will draw you in. You’ll want to stay in Magora forever. Marc Remus is developing his characters in such a realistic way that you’re going to be cheering for them as you read. I’m glad I already have a copy of book three. I’ll start it right away.
March 17, 2017
We are big fans of Book I in the Magora fantasy series, but The Golden Maple Tree brought us to a delightfully new level of entertainment. In Book II the magical realm of the maple tree takes center stage, and what a joy it is to learn of the tree and it’s many wonders. Readers of all ages will thrill at the enchanting continuation of the Magora story in which Holly must help her friend find a cure for a critical ailment. Creative youngsters will find an engaging outlet for growing minds as suspense and great challenges propel this story to an exciting crescendo.
Author Marc Remus continues to breathe life into the unique fantasy world of Magora. Art and literature blend to create a fascinating realm as Remus paints a wonderfully vivid picture in this magical tale which will enthrall young readers. Highly recommended for home and school libraries, Magora The Golden Maple Tree earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.
Author Marc Remus continues to breathe life into the unique fantasy world of Magora. Art and literature blend to create a fascinating realm as Remus paints a wonderfully vivid picture in this magical tale which will enthrall young readers. Highly recommended for home and school libraries, Magora The Golden Maple Tree earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.
September 25, 2018
So magical! I love this series. I think fans of Harry Potter will enjoy this tale. This is the second book in a series, but can be read as a stand alone. Great world building, love the characters!
I received a Kindle ARC from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review.
I received a Kindle ARC from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review.
February 4, 2021
Very Entertaining Book
I read this book to my children at bedtime. I find the book very entertaining and the storyline is excellent. I highly recommend this book to all children no matter what age they are.
I read this book to my children at bedtime. I find the book very entertaining and the storyline is excellent. I highly recommend this book to all children no matter what age they are.
July 28, 2018
The second book in the Magora series had a lot of surprises in stock for me. Holly goes on a second adventure to the world of painting. She saves her friend Amanda and discovers that her grandfather has created doubles. These twists and turns make the book unique and let you wonder what will happen in the third book.
I wasn't bored a single minute reading the book. It is a fast-past story with lots of surprises. This is a very promising story with lots of creative ideas. I found the second book even better than the first one as it reveals a bigger picture and shows that there is much more in store for the reader in future books. I'm continuing reading this series right now.
I wasn't bored a single minute reading the book. It is a fast-past story with lots of surprises. This is a very promising story with lots of creative ideas. I found the second book even better than the first one as it reveals a bigger picture and shows that there is much more in store for the reader in future books. I'm continuing reading this series right now.
November 22, 2016
Magora: The Golden Maple Tree by talented author, Marc Remus, is the second book in the Magora children’s fantasy series and is, quite frankly, utterly magical.
Twelve-year-old Holly O’Flanigan alternates between ‘the real world’ of Donkleywood, where she lives in a mansion with her foster parents, the Smoralls, and the alternate magical world of Magora, via a very special fantasy painting that had been created by her Grandpa Nikolas. In Magora, Holly and her three friends, Rufus, Brian and Amanda had attended Cliffony, Academy of the Arts, where they had learned to paint with the help of magic. Now Holly and her friends are heading back for their second year at Cliffony – but the only problem is that Holly’s friend, Ileana, is very sick; suffering from a disease that dissolves her blood and the only cure for her illness lies in the leaves of the Golden Maple Tree. Holly and her friends set out on a quest to find the mystical maple tree but things become very complicated when Rufus is kidnapped…
As mentioned earlier, this book is the second in the Magora series and should be read in order to fully appreciate the turn of events and to learn the backstories for each of the characters. Reading the books out of sequence doesn’t mean you won’t understand the story – it just may take you a little longer to figure out the who, what, where, when and whys. Remus’ story is charming and full of vibrant imagination, much like a beautifully-painted canvas. From interesting creatures/beings called Hisslers and Chandrills to funny and creative names like Villa Nonesuch, Papplewick Street and Wrinkle Dimple Skin Care Shop, each adds an element of creativity that will fuel the imagination of its readers as they excitedly follow Holly and her friends on their quest to find the mystical Golden Maple Tree that will save their friend. The pages of the story of chuck full of adventure, excitement and wonderment. If you liked the wizarding world of Harry Potter, you’ll love the magical world of Magora in all her vibrant splendor. Marc Remus, like J.K. Rowling, gives his readers a wonderful and magical place to escape!
Twelve-year-old Holly O’Flanigan alternates between ‘the real world’ of Donkleywood, where she lives in a mansion with her foster parents, the Smoralls, and the alternate magical world of Magora, via a very special fantasy painting that had been created by her Grandpa Nikolas. In Magora, Holly and her three friends, Rufus, Brian and Amanda had attended Cliffony, Academy of the Arts, where they had learned to paint with the help of magic. Now Holly and her friends are heading back for their second year at Cliffony – but the only problem is that Holly’s friend, Ileana, is very sick; suffering from a disease that dissolves her blood and the only cure for her illness lies in the leaves of the Golden Maple Tree. Holly and her friends set out on a quest to find the mystical maple tree but things become very complicated when Rufus is kidnapped…
As mentioned earlier, this book is the second in the Magora series and should be read in order to fully appreciate the turn of events and to learn the backstories for each of the characters. Reading the books out of sequence doesn’t mean you won’t understand the story – it just may take you a little longer to figure out the who, what, where, when and whys. Remus’ story is charming and full of vibrant imagination, much like a beautifully-painted canvas. From interesting creatures/beings called Hisslers and Chandrills to funny and creative names like Villa Nonesuch, Papplewick Street and Wrinkle Dimple Skin Care Shop, each adds an element of creativity that will fuel the imagination of its readers as they excitedly follow Holly and her friends on their quest to find the mystical Golden Maple Tree that will save their friend. The pages of the story of chuck full of adventure, excitement and wonderment. If you liked the wizarding world of Harry Potter, you’ll love the magical world of Magora in all her vibrant splendor. Marc Remus, like J.K. Rowling, gives his readers a wonderful and magical place to escape!
March 17, 2016
Golden Maple Tree by Marc Remus is the exciting second adventure to a wonderful children's series. The cover is just as enticing as the inside...readers are captivated by the magical world where Holly and her friends go on amazing adventures. There's always a mystery and someone who needs saving.Marc Remus is a talented writer and illustrator. His work never disappoints.
Golden Maple has it all for children. Mystery, suspense, intrigue and most of all adventure. Friendships are important as well as family life. Doing what is good even if it's not easy is another theme inside this beautifully written tale. Every page brings readers closer to what's happening and why. Reading one book will cause fo readers to want to read another and another by Marc Remus. It's one spell-binding read that will captivate its audience for a long time. Overall, I highly recommend this enchanting children's novel to readers everywhere. You will definitely fall in love with the characters.
Golden Maple has it all for children. Mystery, suspense, intrigue and most of all adventure. Friendships are important as well as family life. Doing what is good even if it's not easy is another theme inside this beautifully written tale. Every page brings readers closer to what's happening and why. Reading one book will cause fo readers to want to read another and another by Marc Remus. It's one spell-binding read that will captivate its audience for a long time. Overall, I highly recommend this enchanting children's novel to readers everywhere. You will definitely fall in love with the characters.
November 10, 2016
Fast read. The adventure continues with Holly and her friends. I look forward to the release of the next book in this series.
I do enjoy the opening piece to each chapter addressing different ways the imagination and creativity are expressed.
You readers will like how this story unfolds in magical lands.
I do enjoy the opening piece to each chapter addressing different ways the imagination and creativity are expressed.
You readers will like how this story unfolds in magical lands.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews