WARNING: Magic Can Be Dangerous!

by B. Ware

Tyler isn’t thrilled to be spending yet another mundane afternoon at Great Uncle John’s. And that’s putting it mildly! But after his visit sparks a chain of inexplicable events, he delightedly discovers magic at his fingertips.

Being able to conjure up a swimming pool and a wodge of cash are certainly perks. Yet the magic proves tricky to control. What’s more, it seems to be irreversible.

Unable to properly harness his new-found powers, Tyler ends up getting those around him into all manner of mischief and mayhem. And when things begin to go catastrophically wrong, he fears magic is a curse, rather than a blessing. Will normality ever be restored, or will Tyler be forced to adapt to his new, altered reality forever? It all depends on whether he’s able to find Lottie’s loophole…

Genres: Childrens

214 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 30, 2024

Reviews

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic find this was! After author B Ware visited my son’s school we purchased a copy of the book at the end of the school day.

My son is probably a little young for where this book is aimed, but we have a love of books in our house and we liked the sound of this one. Although only 5 years old my son easily followed the story and soon got engrossed in it. It’s the first long chapter book we have read, my son being used to books with lots of pictures, but he never even mentioned this once we dived in and started meeting the characters.

I enjoyed reading it to him and found myself also looking forward to picking it up again the next night.

My son loved the magic throughout the book, often acting out the chapter with his teddies as the characters, or pretending he could do magic, making things disappear and reappear.

I really liked how it was written with the narration throughout, this added an extra layer to the book, and certainly added some laugh out loud bits.

I don’t want to give anything away, but we definitely recommend this wonderful book, there’s lots of mystery and fun throughout and it will keep you guessing right up until the very last page.

My son’s favourite character was John 2.0 and we both thought the ending was really good. Oh and the mashed potato, that gave us a giggle!

This one will definitely be being read again, and as my son continues to read more for himself he will enjoy reading it to me!

We will certainly be looking out for the next book from this author!

[Nelli Lakatos · Rating 4 out of 5]

“ℳ𝒶𝑔𝒾𝒸 𝓈𝒽𝑜𝓊𝓁𝒹 𝒜ℒ𝒲𝒜𝒴𝒮 𝒷𝑒 𝒶𝓅𝓅𝓇𝑜𝒶𝒸𝒽𝑒𝒹 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 𝒸𝒶𝓊𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃.“

What a fun story this was!

WARNING Magic Can Be Dangerous was an adventurous, entertaining and magical read. About how magic can be dangerous! I had such a fun time reading this book, it was such an easy read with engaging writing style and lovely characters who make mistakes but they just help us readers connect with them even more.

I highly recommend this joyful story to anyone!

Thank you so much B. Ware for letting me ARC read your debut novel, I had a lot of fun!

[Susan Lefman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arc received from NetGalley.

"Warning: Magic Can Be Dangerous" takes readers on a thrilling journey through a world of magical chaos, reminiscent of the whimsical tales of Lemony Snicket. When Tyler's day at Uncle John's house takes an unexpected turn, he discovers his late grandfather's magician's cape, equipped with the perfect solution to his broken shoelace dilemma. Little does he know, this innocent discovery will unleash a series of extraordinary events that turn his world upside down.

As Tyler's inner thoughts begin to manifest as reality, his perceptions of those around him shift dramatically. His once peculiar uncle becomes more relatable, his sister is replaced by his best friend turned brother, Luke, and even his own mother has an arresting development. With each wish fulfilled, Tyler realizes the perilous consequences of his newfound power, prompting him to seek help from his friend Lottie in unraveling the mystery behind the magic.

However, when a mishap involving a sneeze puts Lottie in a sticky situation, Tyler must turn to the last person he expected for assistance—Uncle John. Together, they embark on a quest to reverse the magic and restore order to Tyler's life, facing challenges and surprises along the way.
Interwoven with humor and insightful reflections from an omniscient narrator, "Warning: Magic Can Be Dangerous" offers a delightful blend of fantasy and adventure, perfect for middle school readers. While some unfamiliar vocabulary may require explanation for US audiences, the story's whimsical charm and relatable characters make it a captivating read for all.

[Darren J Waddell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Warning! You won’t be able to put it down!

I started reading this book and I just couldn’t put it down, literally! Once I opened it up and started reading, it magically attached to my hands and I had to continue reading until I had finished it…….

Pure escapism!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Brilliantly written, great fun to read alone or out loud to the whole family & definitely suitable for any age. Thoroughly entertaining!

Looking forward to the next book by B. Ware…..

[Simon Batsman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magic and chaos laced with humility and compassion.

It’s little wonder why B.Ware’s debut, Warning: Magic Can Be Dangerous, has captured the imaginations of thousands of schoolchildren by storm!
The writing is playful and engaging, carefully blending silliness and education into this rollercoaster of an adventure.

Telling the tale of Tyler who, unbeknownst to him, has acquired magical powers, inadvertently creating chaos and calamity wherever he goes. Not to mention magicking his little sister away!

This book was a pleasure to read. Tyler was so relatable, somehow using his magic in exactly the way I would have done had it been me.
The plot was very easy to follow, though not without a little mystery to keep its younger readers guessing what might happen next.

I love that the narrator had a voice. Their comments and interruptions throughout the story never failed to make me laugh. B.Ware demonstrates not only a knack for storytelling, but a joyous sense of humour with as many quips for adults as there were for children.

“‘Someone’s p-p picked up the Penguins?’” was a personal favourite of mine!

Warning: Magic Can Be Dangerous is brimming with childish charm and juvenile japes, wrapping up with a moment which I found to be rather touching.
A must-read for any primary school child who enjoys tales of mischief and misadventures.

[Sarah Ziman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Warning: might cause kids to read after lights out! This is SUCH a fun tale, bringing the old fairytale trope of 'magic with unforeseen consequences' bang up to (hilarious) date. Tyler's late grandad was a magician - well, a children's entertainer at parties - but he couldn't have had any real powers, could he? After Tyler finds his old gear in the attic, he seems to be able to make his wishes come true, but how is he doing it? And how can he reverse the bits he didn't mean to do?

The story canters along at a cracking pace, and the unique layout and interjections of the narrator - as well as adding another opportunity for jokes - mean that this should hook the most reluctant of readers, particularly boys. This has more to it than pure humour though; the way in which magic goes wrong depending on how it's worded also gives lots of scope for discussion and creative writing, really thinking about how to say exactly what we mean! Highly recommended!

[Matt Benjamin · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Warning: Magic Can be Dangerous” is a witty and fun story about magic that falls into the wrong hands. I had lots of fun, and many laughs following Tyler through the mishaps that arise when magic invades his world. The story was fast-paced and didn't at any point bog down or feel boring. There were enough questions to keep me reading, and an entertaining cast of side characters, some of whom I was really rooting for. Others, I was hoping would get what they deserved. I particularly appreciate the unique, stylistic choice the author made to interject the narrator within the plot of the story. These were some of the funniest moments. I would wholeheartedly recommend this novel to any middle grader looking for an engaging story and many laughs.

[Dave Westfall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Warning: Magic Can Be Dangerous! by B. Ware is a 5-star book and 286 pages of fun for kids and adults! I have always loved magic and trying to figure out how the magician fools us. The young magician in this awesome book finds real magic but doesn't know where it came from or exactly how it works. I got the book to read to my nieces and nephews and decided to read it myself before I shared it with them. It was two days of pure joy and intrigue for me! I did eventually guess the ending but only a short time before I finished the book. The kids loved it too and can't wait for B. Ware's next work of art!"

[Tina S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just started reading advanced copies from authors and hit the jackpot with my first middle grade read. This is such a charming book! Warning: Magic Can Be Dangerous! delivers a thrilling adventure that demonstrates how mixing magic with everyday wishes can quickly spiral into chaos for a bored child on a school break. Tyler's journey to correct his magical mishaps keeps you on the edge, shouting "don't do it" and "Yes, let's go crazy with the magic!" simultaneously. This enchanting story is a must-have, an unforgettable ride for kids everywhere.

[Rose Hirsch · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun read for all ages who enjoy mischief and mayhem. Each chapter is full of surprises. I couldn't stop reading to find out what happened next, although I wanted to shake the main character, Tyler, because sometimes he was so oblivious to the things that were right in front of him. Even the narrator gets in on the fun, stating his own opinions on the magical goings on. Without giving more away, I highly suggest reading it for yourself.

[Shahid · Rating 5 out of 5]

"WARNING: Magic Can Be Dangerous!" by B. Ware follows Tyler's mundane afternoon at Great Uncle John's, turned magical adventure. Discovering he can conjure up anything he desires, Tyler's excitement soon turns to chaos as his newfound powers spiral out of control. With mischief and mayhem ensuing, Tyler must find a way to reverse the irreversible magic before it's too late. Ware crafts a captivating tale of the consequences of unchecked magic, keeping readers hooked until the very end.

[Bookgirl888 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished this over the weekend and now I'm sad! I absolutely loved it. I laughed and I cried and then I wondered what I'd do if I had magic! I really liked the way that Tyler changed through the story and learnt that the grass isn't always greener. He made some silly decisions and regretted them instantly, but he tried to put them right. He also discovered that you only get one family so don't try to change them.

[Crystal Boyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a person that loved Harry Potter and Diary of a Wimpy kid. This book was so cute! Magic is a great thing! Overall story is exciting, hilarious and full of suspense to keep you turning to the next page! Job well done B.Ware. My 12 and 14 year read along as well. Family fun reading nights!!

[I.A.M. Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was so much fun from the first page to the last. The narrator is engaging (think Lemony Snicket) and the main character, Tyler, is relatable and totally lovable. Loved the magic, the humor, the pacing, and the plot. My 10-year-old is “patiently” waiting for the sequel!

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very entertaining and compelling story that made me laught and kept me hooked.
Well done, loved it
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[Lucy Goldsworth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Unfortunately, my daughter could not get into this book. It’s a very sweet idea and story, but sadly not for us.

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

The narrator is very funny and knows how to keep you hooked.

[Clare Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a quirky, unique and interesting story. I loved how the narrator pushed the story on and how you were involved. I would definitely recommend it for anyone 8 or over.

[Ava F · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a fun book, and it’s truly a kids book, just meaning there’s some humor in the book that might not appeal to adults but it’s written for kids anyways so keep that in mind! I loved how there’s a narrator talking to you throughout the book. I love all the magical mishap, this is really a be careful what you wish for situation! Or else someone might turn into a tissue!! Read the book to find out more!

[L.G. Rifaat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fantastic, engaging read. Perfect for reading aloud!

[Julie Ditton · Rating 5 out of 5]

B. Ware has written a delightful, funny middle grade novel full of magical mayhem. When Taylor suddenly finds magic at his fingertips, he finds out that you need to be very careful about what you wish for. His very thoughts start bringing about irreversible magic! This fast paced story is told in the third person in a storyteller fashion by a narrator who breaks the fourth wall and talks directly to the reader. The style is reminiscent of Lemony Snicket, but very fast paced and more light hearted. With a pseudonym of B. Ware, the author name should give you a clue as to the silly humor in store. I read an advanced copy from the publisher, but I can honestly recommend this cute novel. Although aimed at kids, it will have any family member laughing.

[rosie 🍂 · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was okay. I didn’t particularly enjoy it but I know lots of maybe younger readers did. The magic in this was just strange and not interesting. It was kind of an effort to finish as it was not really fast paced. It might be because i have been reading more older years books but yeah i didn’t enjoy this.