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The Making of a Jurusihir
Mira Abdullah’s goal in life is to become the first female Menteri Jurusihir of Tanjong. To do that, she has to finish a four-year degree in Inventive Design Magics, top her class to become Jurusihir Bestari, and win the five-year apprenticeship to the menteri.
Simple, right?
By the end of the first year, Mira knows that there are only two strong contenders in her cohort: her and Zeid. But she also finds herself being told that girls are not welcome in the exclusive Inventive Design Magics Degree.
Mira just wants to prove herself capable. Even if she has to pretend to be someone else to do it.
Simple, right?
By the end of the first year, Mira knows that there are only two strong contenders in her cohort: her and Zeid. But she also finds herself being told that girls are not welcome in the exclusive Inventive Design Magics Degree.
Mira just wants to prove herself capable. Even if she has to pretend to be someone else to do it.
264 pages, Paperback
Published May 24, 2024
8 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
About the author
Anna Tan
32 books178 followersAnna Tan grew up in Malaysia, the country that is not Singapore. She writes fantastical stories and fairy tales, and has short stories included in various anthologies. She helps people publish books at Teaspoon Publishing, which includes yelling at HTML for epub reasons. She is also the editor of NutMag, an annual zine published for and by MYWriters Penang.
Anna has an MA in Creative Writing: The Novel under a Chevening scholarship and is the current President of the Malaysian Writers Society. She is interested in Malay/Nusantara and Chinese legends and folklore in exploring the intersection of language, culture, and faith. She can be found tweeting as @natzers and forgetting to update annatsp.com.
Anna has an MA in Creative Writing: The Novel under a Chevening scholarship and is the current President of the Malaysian Writers Society. She is interested in Malay/Nusantara and Chinese legends and folklore in exploring the intersection of language, culture, and faith. She can be found tweeting as @natzers and forgetting to update annatsp.com.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 7, 2024
This was such a light, interesting read that I could finish it for a day if my daily work isn't in the way.
This book gives Happy Potter-She's The Man kinda vibe so, if you like those two type of genre, then this book is up your alley.
I wish there was like a glosarry, at least a short description on some terms related to the magic aspect (the first chapter was a bit confusing trying to understand the magic lingo). But I guess it was alright at the end cause through out the reading, the magic aspect was understandable (if you can connect the parts to the realistic of our world)
Both Mira and Zeid's character was lovable - even though there wasn't a hint of romance at the first half of the book, I like how the author build up their relationship. The side character and their characteristics was also likeable (cough hateable as well - yes, I'm talking about you Hakeem).
Overall, I really enjoy this book and I highly recommend those who want to try reading their first light fantasy novel.
This book gives Happy Potter-She's The Man kinda vibe so, if you like those two type of genre, then this book is up your alley.
I wish there was like a glosarry, at least a short description on some terms related to the magic aspect (the first chapter was a bit confusing trying to understand the magic lingo). But I guess it was alright at the end cause through out the reading, the magic aspect was understandable (if you can connect the parts to the realistic of our world)
Both Mira and Zeid's character was lovable - even though there wasn't a hint of romance at the first half of the book, I like how the author build up their relationship. The side character and their characteristics was also likeable (cough hateable as well - yes, I'm talking about you Hakeem).
Overall, I really enjoy this book and I highly recommend those who want to try reading their first light fantasy novel.
December 11, 2024
Disclaimer: this review is based on the uncorrected proof of the book.
🔸 About Mira who aims to be the first female Menteri Jurusihir. She has to first graduate top of her Inventive Design Magics class but what happen if girls are not welcome to get the degree?
✫ In short, The Making of a Jurusihir screams f*ck the patriarchy and I'm all here for it ‼️ Magic, Mulan & academic rivalry at its best ✨
(It's worth to note that, while feminism was the main message throughout the story, I found some scenes contradicting to the message which I would like you to spot then have a discussion with me!)
✫ TMOJ is perfect for beginners since the writing was very easy to read. It's an NA written like a YA. I breezed through the story and was pretty much invested right after the prologue.
✫ I really love the concept. A world where magic is commonly practiced and we can even get a degree on it! Sign me up 🤚🏻
✫ The amount of time skips in this book however was insane! I wish we have less of that especially when we're not exploring much on the events. I felt like a time traveler who's in a rush 🏃🏻♂️
✫ The conflict started at around page 200-ish - almost at the end. Things happened quickly and conveniently. I believe with less timeskips, we could have had a longer and well explored stakes.
✨ All in all, if you're a fan of magic, Mulan and academic rivalry, or simply finding a light read, this book is definitely for you!
My rating: 3⭐️
Thank you @bukubookiut for sending me this book. It's now available at PBAKL and online-link on their bio!
🔸 About Mira who aims to be the first female Menteri Jurusihir. She has to first graduate top of her Inventive Design Magics class but what happen if girls are not welcome to get the degree?
✫ In short, The Making of a Jurusihir screams f*ck the patriarchy and I'm all here for it ‼️ Magic, Mulan & academic rivalry at its best ✨
(It's worth to note that, while feminism was the main message throughout the story, I found some scenes contradicting to the message which I would like you to spot then have a discussion with me!)
✫ TMOJ is perfect for beginners since the writing was very easy to read. It's an NA written like a YA. I breezed through the story and was pretty much invested right after the prologue.
✫ I really love the concept. A world where magic is commonly practiced and we can even get a degree on it! Sign me up 🤚🏻
✫ The amount of time skips in this book however was insane! I wish we have less of that especially when we're not exploring much on the events. I felt like a time traveler who's in a rush 🏃🏻♂️
✫ The conflict started at around page 200-ish - almost at the end. Things happened quickly and conveniently. I believe with less timeskips, we could have had a longer and well explored stakes.
✨ All in all, if you're a fan of magic, Mulan and academic rivalry, or simply finding a light read, this book is definitely for you!
My rating: 3⭐️
Thank you @bukubookiut for sending me this book. It's now available at PBAKL and online-link on their bio!
June 4, 2024
this is such a light read that picked me up from my slight slump, and i read it through the busiest days of my semester so i definitely have to give this one a pass for entertainment and the props for keeping me engaged the whole time!
this is an urban fantasy that follows mira as she starts her journey pursuing a male-dominated course in her university, which is inventive magics as she strives to be the top student to get a prestigious internship with the menteri jurusihir! which i love 🤓 like this screams prestigious magical academy (it is not a trope but i am a sucker for this type of setting!)
it is quite easy to follow, with its concise writing style as we navigate her four years of study together alongside mira, this is definitely for fans of mulan, magics, academic rivals, and also feminism! it spans across a rather long period of time, which sadly we only get to see little parts of the years, focusing on usually an important event of the year and then we passed along the year. this book definitely caught me by surprise with its inventive world, like i loved the event that happened as it was such a fun and new addition to the plot, while the friendship (and budding romance?) in the story hits the sweet spot.
i only wished the magic system was explained and elaborated more thoroughly, as i cant grasp the idea of it being visual in my head, which would have sealed the book with a higher rating from me! this and i want to know more of the world as we don’t really get to see this vibrant setting that has so much more for the readers to explore!
overall, still imo a very interesting read for me, and i think its core message is overall empowering! so definitely a recommend for me!
this is however an uncorrected proof copy that i am reading thank you to bookiut for sending me one! so do not quote me on the specifics as there may be changes done!
this is an urban fantasy that follows mira as she starts her journey pursuing a male-dominated course in her university, which is inventive magics as she strives to be the top student to get a prestigious internship with the menteri jurusihir! which i love 🤓 like this screams prestigious magical academy (it is not a trope but i am a sucker for this type of setting!)
it is quite easy to follow, with its concise writing style as we navigate her four years of study together alongside mira, this is definitely for fans of mulan, magics, academic rivals, and also feminism! it spans across a rather long period of time, which sadly we only get to see little parts of the years, focusing on usually an important event of the year and then we passed along the year. this book definitely caught me by surprise with its inventive world, like i loved the event that happened as it was such a fun and new addition to the plot, while the friendship (and budding romance?) in the story hits the sweet spot.
i only wished the magic system was explained and elaborated more thoroughly, as i cant grasp the idea of it being visual in my head, which would have sealed the book with a higher rating from me! this and i want to know more of the world as we don’t really get to see this vibrant setting that has so much more for the readers to explore!
overall, still imo a very interesting read for me, and i think its core message is overall empowering! so definitely a recommend for me!
this is however an uncorrected proof copy that i am reading thank you to bookiut for sending me one! so do not quote me on the specifics as there may be changes done!
October 17, 2024
Mira Abdullah yang bercita-cita menjadi Menteri Jurusihir, kini berjaya menempatkan diri di kursus IDM yang merupakan salah satu syarat wajib yang perlu dipenuhi andai mahu menjawat jawatan tersebut. Namun dia yang seorang gadis sering menerima layanan tidak sepatutnya hanya kerana dia wanita.
SH baca buku ni memang sangat marah. Rasa kesian sangat-sangat pada Mira yang menjadi mangsa pandangan serong masyarakat. Apa salahnya seorang wanita ingin menjadi jurutera. Jurusihir (gabungan jurutera dan sihir.) Mak dia sendiri pun tak suka dia belajar bidang tersebut. Di kala ini, SH rasa amat bersyukur kerana kedua orang tua SH tak pernah melarang minat SH asalkan tidak melanggar batas.
Walaupun tema diskriminasi jantina ini adalah cliche dan sering diperkatakan namun penulisan yang baik mampu mengubah benda biasa menjadi luar biasa. Naskah ini memang dapat mengundang kemarahan SH. Marah pada pihak universiti atas sikap pilih kasih mereka. Marah pada ibu bapa Mira yang langsung tidak menyokong minatnya. Marah pada Mira sendiri yang buat keputusan tanpa berfikir dengan sedalamnya. Marah dengan Hakim dengan perangai pembulinya. Banyak betul marahnya.
Dalam mengejar impian, kita memang akan sering diuji. Jadi apa yang kita lakukan untuk mengatasi segala masalah yang mendatang itulah yang bakal menjadi cermin kita nanti. Kita yang harus bertanggungjawab atas semua pilihan yang kita buat.
Pak Zef memang terbaik. Sentiasa memberi dukungan kepada Mira yang tidak pernah dia dapatkan daripada kedua orang tuanya sendiri. Nasib baik juga kakak dia sangat memahami. Adalah tempat untuk meluah rasa.
SH baca buku ni memang sangat marah. Rasa kesian sangat-sangat pada Mira yang menjadi mangsa pandangan serong masyarakat. Apa salahnya seorang wanita ingin menjadi jurutera. Jurusihir (gabungan jurutera dan sihir.) Mak dia sendiri pun tak suka dia belajar bidang tersebut. Di kala ini, SH rasa amat bersyukur kerana kedua orang tua SH tak pernah melarang minat SH asalkan tidak melanggar batas.
Walaupun tema diskriminasi jantina ini adalah cliche dan sering diperkatakan namun penulisan yang baik mampu mengubah benda biasa menjadi luar biasa. Naskah ini memang dapat mengundang kemarahan SH. Marah pada pihak universiti atas sikap pilih kasih mereka. Marah pada ibu bapa Mira yang langsung tidak menyokong minatnya. Marah pada Mira sendiri yang buat keputusan tanpa berfikir dengan sedalamnya. Marah dengan Hakim dengan perangai pembulinya. Banyak betul marahnya.
Dalam mengejar impian, kita memang akan sering diuji. Jadi apa yang kita lakukan untuk mengatasi segala masalah yang mendatang itulah yang bakal menjadi cermin kita nanti. Kita yang harus bertanggungjawab atas semua pilihan yang kita buat.
Pak Zef memang terbaik. Sentiasa memberi dukungan kepada Mira yang tidak pernah dia dapatkan daripada kedua orang tuanya sendiri. Nasib baik juga kakak dia sangat memahami. Adalah tempat untuk meluah rasa.
December 17, 2024
*SPOILER ALERT - siapa belum baca pergi main jauh2 haha*
My thoughts?
1. Buku ni best gilaaaaaaa kuasa 10! Definitely remind me of my favourite movie back before, She's The Man. Same vibe. Student perempuan menyamar jadi student lelaki semata2 nak capai cita2. It's funny dan very fun to read.
2. Love the worldbuilding so much! Zaman ni semua pakai magic aka sihir. Student semua study magic. Ada 3 course, Aesthetic Magic, Health Magic & Practical Magic. Practical Magic kira bidang yang paling hebat la. Nanti graduate boleh join kementerian pertahanan as Menteri Jurusihir. Biasa lelaki je boleh join. Perempuan kena join either Aesthetic atau Health Magic je.
3. FC buku ni Mira Abdullah anak Perdana Menteri. Minat sangat dengan Practical Magic. Lepas habis high school dia masuk universiti nk further study dalam bidang Practical Magic. Mira ni memang budak bijak. Dia ada rival which is MC buku ni, Zeid Ismail. 1st year memang kacang je bagi Mira. Tapi sebab dia perempuan, uni tak bagi sambung 2nd year walaupun dia best student. Dia kena tukar course. That's why la dia start disguise as a guy tuu.
4. Aku ni banyak kali jugak cuak sebab takut rahsia Mira terbongkar. Lawak gila masa dia pergi tournament lepas tu dia tidur habis darah atas katil tak perasan datang bulan. Zeid ingat dia nak bunuh diri 🤣 Pastu masa dia kena jampi jadi high dan terconfess dekat Zeid tu hahaha
5. Ending dia kurang satu benda je. Aku cuma nak tahu expression Mak Mira lepas tahu Mira berjaya capai cita2 dia. Sebab Mak dia yang paling against perempuan study Practical Magic kan.
6. The Epilogue was marvelous. Love it !
Personal rating :
4.8 / 5
My thoughts?
1. Buku ni best gilaaaaaaa kuasa 10! Definitely remind me of my favourite movie back before, She's The Man. Same vibe. Student perempuan menyamar jadi student lelaki semata2 nak capai cita2. It's funny dan very fun to read.
2. Love the worldbuilding so much! Zaman ni semua pakai magic aka sihir. Student semua study magic. Ada 3 course, Aesthetic Magic, Health Magic & Practical Magic. Practical Magic kira bidang yang paling hebat la. Nanti graduate boleh join kementerian pertahanan as Menteri Jurusihir. Biasa lelaki je boleh join. Perempuan kena join either Aesthetic atau Health Magic je.
3. FC buku ni Mira Abdullah anak Perdana Menteri. Minat sangat dengan Practical Magic. Lepas habis high school dia masuk universiti nk further study dalam bidang Practical Magic. Mira ni memang budak bijak. Dia ada rival which is MC buku ni, Zeid Ismail. 1st year memang kacang je bagi Mira. Tapi sebab dia perempuan, uni tak bagi sambung 2nd year walaupun dia best student. Dia kena tukar course. That's why la dia start disguise as a guy tuu.
4. Aku ni banyak kali jugak cuak sebab takut rahsia Mira terbongkar. Lawak gila masa dia pergi tournament lepas tu dia tidur habis darah atas katil tak perasan datang bulan. Zeid ingat dia nak bunuh diri 🤣 Pastu masa dia kena jampi jadi high dan terconfess dekat Zeid tu hahaha
5. Ending dia kurang satu benda je. Aku cuma nak tahu expression Mak Mira lepas tahu Mira berjaya capai cita2 dia. Sebab Mak dia yang paling against perempuan study Practical Magic kan.
6. The Epilogue was marvelous. Love it !
Personal rating :
4.8 / 5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2024
"How do you explain the beauty of creating and the wonder of having created?" - Mira Abdullah, p.67.
That's my favourite quote in the book. Disclaimer that I'm a friend of Anna Tan and was one of her beta readers who read through the first draft of this book. Finally "The Making of a Jurusihir" was out in May 2024 and I pre-ordered a copy via Bookiut's Shopee store.
This is a new adult book (target readers aged 18-25) involving magic at University Tanjong. I'd highly recommend it to teenagers below 18 as it has all the ingredients for navigating college and uni life; scholarships, final year projects, making new friends, dealing with deans and lecturers, the bully from high school, studying for exams, creative problem solving, team work and most importantly, having dreams and ambitions.
The story is funny, engaging, and a fast read at 250 pages. I would explain it as Harry Potter in Malaysia but with a strong female protagonist and set in university. I really like that it moves chronologically, from Year One, Year Two, Year Three and Year Four, ending with a graduation, apprenticeship and transition to work life. There is an exciting tournament in Year 3 (similar to Potter's Triwizard tournament, but more engineering than sports).
Besides school and studies, I liked the relationships & banter between Mira and her family, and the character of a rather eccentric uncle, Pak Zefanya. It's all very clean and above board, with some funny climaxes at the 50% and 75% mark in the story (Bookiut is a Malay-Muslim publisher targeted at teenage readers in Malaysia - their staple is Malay novels but they've ventured recently into English novels).
I'm intrigued to know how the author came up with place names Syburi and Palit. All in all, it's a wholesome read and something you'd want to buy for a teenager. 5 stars!
That's my favourite quote in the book. Disclaimer that I'm a friend of Anna Tan and was one of her beta readers who read through the first draft of this book. Finally "The Making of a Jurusihir" was out in May 2024 and I pre-ordered a copy via Bookiut's Shopee store.
This is a new adult book (target readers aged 18-25) involving magic at University Tanjong. I'd highly recommend it to teenagers below 18 as it has all the ingredients for navigating college and uni life; scholarships, final year projects, making new friends, dealing with deans and lecturers, the bully from high school, studying for exams, creative problem solving, team work and most importantly, having dreams and ambitions.
The story is funny, engaging, and a fast read at 250 pages. I would explain it as Harry Potter in Malaysia but with a strong female protagonist and set in university. I really like that it moves chronologically, from Year One, Year Two, Year Three and Year Four, ending with a graduation, apprenticeship and transition to work life. There is an exciting tournament in Year 3 (similar to Potter's Triwizard tournament, but more engineering than sports).
Besides school and studies, I liked the relationships & banter between Mira and her family, and the character of a rather eccentric uncle, Pak Zefanya. It's all very clean and above board, with some funny climaxes at the 50% and 75% mark in the story (Bookiut is a Malay-Muslim publisher targeted at teenage readers in Malaysia - their staple is Malay novels but they've ventured recently into English novels).
I'm intrigued to know how the author came up with place names Syburi and Palit. All in all, it's a wholesome read and something you'd want to buy for a teenager. 5 stars!
August 20, 2024
Where do I start? Magic, academic setting, academic rivals to lovers- All my favorite tropes in one book.
I realllly liked the fact that Mira uses a sihir mask and voice changing spell to disguise herself. Although, it was messed up to know she took some dead boy's identity for her own selfish reasons. The only reason why this isn't a 5 star read is because I finished the book knowing Syukri and Fahmi found out eventually that the real Idris is dead.
The author didn't delve further into this part, but news about Mira's achievements would've made its way to Idris' family and friends. It made me dislike Mira, Yani and Pak Zef a little. All these mature people agreeing to using a dead boy's identity.
Not sure why I'm so hung up over this, but anyway!
And I know everyone and their mother knows that Zeid would be the love interest since the prologue, but I just love the execution between them. No giddy feelings, no 'oh my God he's looking at me' squeals - only natural friends/academic rivals to lovers route. I usually find romances written way too fast but ended up loving the pace for them. And last chapter had me giggling and kicking my feet.
Anyways that was a good read, although I would've preferred a better world building.
I realllly liked the fact that Mira uses a sihir mask and voice changing spell to disguise herself. Although, it was messed up to know she took some dead boy's identity for her own selfish reasons. The only reason why this isn't a 5 star read is because I finished the book knowing Syukri and Fahmi found out eventually that the real Idris is dead.
The author didn't delve further into this part, but news about Mira's achievements would've made its way to Idris' family and friends. It made me dislike Mira, Yani and Pak Zef a little. All these mature people agreeing to using a dead boy's identity.
Not sure why I'm so hung up over this, but anyway!
And I know everyone and their mother knows that Zeid would be the love interest since the prologue, but I just love the execution between them. No giddy feelings, no 'oh my God he's looking at me' squeals - only natural friends/academic rivals to lovers route. I usually find romances written way too fast but ended up loving the pace for them. And last chapter had me giggling and kicking my feet.
Anyways that was a good read, although I would've preferred a better world building.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2024
GOOD ATTEMPT BUT NOT QUITE...
Mira is set on being the first female Menteri Jurusihir and for that she needs to study in the prestigious course of Inventive Design Magics where only one woman ever enrolled and graduated. With the help of her sister, Yani and a family friend, Pak Zef, she becomes dons the identity of a male student to continue her studies.
There's interesting stuff going on here like misogyny, the male privilege, rich vs. poor. At first I was under the impression this story is going to be like "eww girls who likes girlie things are useless", but nope because Yani's skills are the one that helps Mira to graduate.
However, the world of "magic" here feels very half-baked. In fact, it barely have a magic feel to it. Inventive Design Magic is basically an engineering program. The "sihir" were never explicitly or elaborately described to give this world a bit of a flair. Some parts of the story is just straight up generic which shows lack of editing. More rewriting would help. There are no spells, no rituals to establish the magical rules of this place. Only brief and vague tells on how "it'll drain you". These would help with a bit more polishing. That's all.
All in all, I wish other Anna Tan works would be better.
Mira is set on being the first female Menteri Jurusihir and for that she needs to study in the prestigious course of Inventive Design Magics where only one woman ever enrolled and graduated. With the help of her sister, Yani and a family friend, Pak Zef, she becomes dons the identity of a male student to continue her studies.
There's interesting stuff going on here like misogyny, the male privilege, rich vs. poor. At first I was under the impression this story is going to be like "eww girls who likes girlie things are useless", but nope because Yani's skills are the one that helps Mira to graduate.
However, the world of "magic" here feels very half-baked. In fact, it barely have a magic feel to it. Inventive Design Magic is basically an engineering program. The "sihir" were never explicitly or elaborately described to give this world a bit of a flair. Some parts of the story is just straight up generic which shows lack of editing. More rewriting would help. There are no spells, no rituals to establish the magical rules of this place. Only brief and vague tells on how "it'll drain you". These would help with a bit more polishing. That's all.
All in all, I wish other Anna Tan works would be better.
July 14, 2024
Aku ni Potterhead, maka bila nampak je Jurusihir ni, terus masuk dalam list nak beli. Sihir ni bukanlah sihir ayam hitam pengeras segala bagai tu. Sihir kat dalam buku ni macam magik lah.
Jurusihir ni macam jurutera tapi dengan magik. Si Mira ni nak jadi Jurusihir tapi sebab dia seorang perempuan, maka dia tak boleh nak teruskan impian dia nak jadi Jurusihir tu. Tapi, sebab Mira ni bijak pandai otak geliga, maka dia pandai buatkan rules tu menyebelahi dia.
Aku suka dia punya bahasa inggeris. Dia sangat Malaysia. Bapak lah. Emak lah. Lalang lah. Kalau pembaca muda yg baru nak jinak-jinak baca buku bahasa inggeris pun, senang lah nak faham.
Bila aku baca, kisah sihir/magic tu tak banyak sangat. Tapi banyak ke arah struggle dia kat universiti tu. Struggle sebagai seorang pelajar. Struggle dia bersama kawan-kawan dia. Struggle dia sebagai seorang perempuan. Struggle dia dengan keluarga dia.
Tapi kan, KALAU.. Kalau masa diorang pergi cafe tu, kat sana dia jumpa Purnama, PERGH! Cun ah!
Jurusihir ni macam jurutera tapi dengan magik. Si Mira ni nak jadi Jurusihir tapi sebab dia seorang perempuan, maka dia tak boleh nak teruskan impian dia nak jadi Jurusihir tu. Tapi, sebab Mira ni bijak pandai otak geliga, maka dia pandai buatkan rules tu menyebelahi dia.
Aku suka dia punya bahasa inggeris. Dia sangat Malaysia. Bapak lah. Emak lah. Lalang lah. Kalau pembaca muda yg baru nak jinak-jinak baca buku bahasa inggeris pun, senang lah nak faham.
Bila aku baca, kisah sihir/magic tu tak banyak sangat. Tapi banyak ke arah struggle dia kat universiti tu. Struggle sebagai seorang pelajar. Struggle dia bersama kawan-kawan dia. Struggle dia sebagai seorang perempuan. Struggle dia dengan keluarga dia.
Tapi kan, KALAU.. Kalau masa diorang pergi cafe tu, kat sana dia jumpa Purnama, PERGH! Cun ah!
July 21, 2024
I genuinely enjoyed thiss!!
Mainly because I barely read fantasy and the only one I read is Harry Potter (only until book 4, guilty😬) and this book sets in a magic school (read:university) and breaking it into university years so yess, totally love the vibe! And Academic Rivals to Lovers?! Hell yeah🤭🤭
Although, I do feel like some parts are a bit rushed and honestly it can sprinkle in a bit more drama. Like some parts got me tensed a bit but then it turns out Im just overthinking it😅😅😂😂 So I guess the author chose to be sweet and nice. Definitely a light read but entertaining as well so pick up this book if you in need of a cozy fantasy while supporting our local author!!
P.s the comment about “The author grew up in Malaysia, a country that is not Singapore” really hit close to home😂😂 While I was in Japan, most of them have no idea where is Malaysia but they damn knew well of Singapore and it doesn’t make sense as we are just next to Singapore and are much bigger😅
Anyway, picked this up for the fundraising book bingo bu @inknplay so one down, two more to go!
Mainly because I barely read fantasy and the only one I read is Harry Potter (only until book 4, guilty😬) and this book sets in a magic school (read:university) and breaking it into university years so yess, totally love the vibe! And Academic Rivals to Lovers?! Hell yeah🤭🤭
Although, I do feel like some parts are a bit rushed and honestly it can sprinkle in a bit more drama. Like some parts got me tensed a bit but then it turns out Im just overthinking it😅😅😂😂 So I guess the author chose to be sweet and nice. Definitely a light read but entertaining as well so pick up this book if you in need of a cozy fantasy while supporting our local author!!
P.s the comment about “The author grew up in Malaysia, a country that is not Singapore” really hit close to home😂😂 While I was in Japan, most of them have no idea where is Malaysia but they damn knew well of Singapore and it doesn’t make sense as we are just next to Singapore and are much bigger😅
Anyway, picked this up for the fundraising book bingo bu @inknplay so one down, two more to go!
December 3, 2024
5/5
A mixed of Mulan with magic in it. Mira strive to be the only woman jurusihir however there were obstacles because of her gender. And because of that she had to pretend to be a guy so that she can continue on her studies as a jurusihir which only allows boys to join no girls allowed, but thanks to her sister for making a mask for her to pretend to be a guy name Idris and continued on her studies. She will have to make sure that she will not get caught by the others. And her friendship with Zeid is so sweet and Zeid is always there for her though he doesn't know that she is Mira. And they work together for a magic competition. A school bully is always around to messed things up and he knows Mira's secret and threaten her to do things for him. Oh wells, a total adventure for Mira as she have to do whatever so that her cover won't be revealed because she is one step to achieve her goal to be the Menteri jurusihir.
It's such a fun story and I can't spoil to much of the story. You will have to read it to find out.
A mixed of Mulan with magic in it. Mira strive to be the only woman jurusihir however there were obstacles because of her gender. And because of that she had to pretend to be a guy so that she can continue on her studies as a jurusihir which only allows boys to join no girls allowed, but thanks to her sister for making a mask for her to pretend to be a guy name Idris and continued on her studies. She will have to make sure that she will not get caught by the others. And her friendship with Zeid is so sweet and Zeid is always there for her though he doesn't know that she is Mira. And they work together for a magic competition. A school bully is always around to messed things up and he knows Mira's secret and threaten her to do things for him. Oh wells, a total adventure for Mira as she have to do whatever so that her cover won't be revealed because she is one step to achieve her goal to be the Menteri jurusihir.
It's such a fun story and I can't spoil to much of the story. You will have to read it to find out.
May 23, 2025
I actually read The Making of a Jurusihir a while ago, but it’s been sitting in my mind ever since and now, I finally had to sit down and write about it. There’s something about this story that stays with me, sort of.
Anna Tan does a beautiful job weaving Malaysian culture, faith, and folklore into a fantasy that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. Sara’s journey of self-discovery, caught between tradition and identity, really struck a chord with me.
It’s not a fast-paced read, but I appreciated the introspective tone. Some parts could have gone deeper, but overall it was refreshing and meaningful. If you’re tired of typical Western fantasy and want something rooted in a different cultural lens, this is it.
Just had to share so more people can discover this gem and let's support local! Our book industry definitely had changed to the better with such genre and storyline! Keep it up author!
Anna Tan does a beautiful job weaving Malaysian culture, faith, and folklore into a fantasy that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. Sara’s journey of self-discovery, caught between tradition and identity, really struck a chord with me.
It’s not a fast-paced read, but I appreciated the introspective tone. Some parts could have gone deeper, but overall it was refreshing and meaningful. If you’re tired of typical Western fantasy and want something rooted in a different cultural lens, this is it.
Just had to share so more people can discover this gem and let's support local! Our book industry definitely had changed to the better with such genre and storyline! Keep it up author!
January 2, 2026
at first, i really thought this book would be the type book that take a stand with feminism and opposed those misogynistic idea and stigma. At least, i really hope that mira will finally make a change on how the Tanjong citizens view female jurusihirs. But unfortunately the book was not it :( the book really has a huge problems with its pacing like there were a lot of time skips and many of the important events to university students such as the examinations and graduation felt briefly portrayed in this book. The book title is “the making of a JURUSIHIR” but did mira finally became the first female jurusihir? nope. The book should probably end with her becoming the first female jurusihir and finally puts an end to all those misogynistic views towards female jurusihir. All in all, this book was not so memorable and it was really hard to pick it up again even though it just 254 pages long
January 15, 2025
It gives of Harry Potter vibes if hermione was the lead and she was discriminated due to her gender and wasnt allowed to learn magic (with a touch of engineering)
Gave me anxiety most of the time because she was essentially living a lie. It was an easy read, loved that there was a touch of romance but it was not the main plot. Nothing too plot-twisty but never got to know how Hakim knew abt her secret. All in all tak sure if its all too empowering because she was disguised as a man most of the time.
It was a fun, short read definitely. Progression of character is not too visible. All in all not too shabby :)
Gave me anxiety most of the time because she was essentially living a lie. It was an easy read, loved that there was a touch of romance but it was not the main plot. Nothing too plot-twisty but never got to know how Hakim knew abt her secret. All in all tak sure if its all too empowering because she was disguised as a man most of the time.
It was a fun, short read definitely. Progression of character is not too visible. All in all not too shabby :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2024
I wish there would be moreee descriptions on the practical magic, on the magic classes they went, you know more Harry Pottah stuffs but the word magic was just a mere-mentioned throughout the book. I enjoyed the first half of the book but towards the end, I am frustrated as i thought it could be moree dramatic ending that grips your heart and lets it loose slowly. But i just dont feel the roller coaster ride of emotion like it was that plain. Rate this 3 since I still enjoy the concept and the theme. 💔
June 4, 2024
If the teen version me read this book she would love this very much. This is light fantasy novel with bits of romance mentions. Fast paced novel. I really do enjoy reading this novel though I finished it in a day. I do wish it has longer chapters. The concept is good. It has good feminism energy in it. Word choices are great for new English book reader or teen reads. It's my first time read Anna Tan book. Looking forward to your next novel!
August 14, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! Wasn’t expecting much going in, but after the first few chapters I was hooked. I breezed through it on one of my stay at home with nothing to do days. While I enjoyed the story, I would have preferred more time with character development and not just rushing through four years of magic studies 😅.
January 9, 2026
Best! Vibes dunia university magic mcm harry potter. Tambah sikit elemen friendship Idris Nor dgn Zeid yang end up turns into lovey dovey feeling. Haha disclaimer bukan hubungan sejenis. Lepas tu ada tambahan background keluarga politik Mira Abdullah tu sekali buat jadi saspen sikit. Cerita tak heavy tapi suka sebab dia ada plot and author pandai bagi cerita ni jadi logik juga. Worth reading!
December 30, 2024
Overall, this story was fine. It contains the whole story of her adventure in her university. But sadly, i feel like the storyline missed something. There's a little bit of a hole here and there even though there's no mystery or unanswered questions😔. I enjoy it, though..👍🏻✨️
January 25, 2025
It's a simple and a light read. I really enjoyed it because it's nothing too heavy but still have a good storyline. Though I can guess the ending I still enjoyed it nevertheless. I also really like the romance aspect in this book.
June 30, 2024
It is a good choice for a light reading. The writings have room for improvement. However, overall I like the story and I think the writer end it nicely.
June 3, 2025
good for beginner maybe😅 cause the plot sangat lah boleh agak
August 3, 2025
I didn’t get the chance to explore the PBAKL this year, but I’ve been keeping an eye on the books that have captured public attention. And so among the titles from BOOKIUT that had made it into the buzz, this particular book stood out the most.
Picking this one up, I made sure not to expect a mere imitation of Harry Potter. Instead, I hoped that Anna Tan would bring her unique touch to the story of Jurusihir (wizard). From the synopsis itself, I was hoping for a deeper dive into the world of 'sihir' (magic) and the tension between Mira and Zeid as a rival. Instead, the book focuses more on themes of women’s rights and patriarchy.
This shift in focus might come as a surprise if you were expecting a magical rivalry, but it is worth noting that if you approach the book with the right expectations, you might find its exploration of social issues just as engaging. I, on the other hand, had delve this book with a wrong expectation and wrong expectations would sometimes lead to a disappointment.
I truly appreciate how Anna Tan integrates Malaysian culture into the little worldbuilding of Jurusihir. While the magic systems, such as the Helmi Tracker and Sihir Mask might not seem grand and may appear to have limited development in its storytelling - I still find it brilliant how the author has crafted her own unique vision of a magical world, set in assuming the 20th century.
However, it seems the author may have written this with a primarily Malaysian audience in mind, as there is little explanation of the jargon, which could be confusing for non-Malaysians (I am always in hope every Malaysian book out there would break internationally). But I do think this book has accessible writing especially for beginners.
Now, to be an author is also to be a researcher and so it is important to accurately portray the backgrounds of your characters. I was particularly disappointed with the lack of detail about how the Helmi Tracker was innovated into a safety tracker during the tournament or just how the magic ever works there. Much of the story felt superficial, like a tale drifting in the wind.
Although the book was written in a very YA-esque despite its feature of new adult characters, this approach isn't inherently bad. It is well-suited for its target audience and could be a great choice for those looking for something accessible and engaging. However, more experienced readers might find it less captivating. Again, I was not expecting it to be a copy of Harry Potter, but the story does feel a bit surface-level and monotonous at times. While it has its merits, it might not offer the depth some readers are looking for.
Another point of disappointment was the use of the 'not like other girls' trope. The book addresses women's struggles in a male-dominated field but contradicts this with its portrayal of the protagonist, who is framed as exceptional simply because she is different from other women. I hoped for a character who would empower others and challenge the status quo, but instead, she appears to look down on her sister's work with the 'Sihir Mask,' surprised that she could be so smart, especially since she had always assumed her sister's decision to pursue a more female-dominated field meant she wasn't capable of such intellect. True empowerment does not require one to stand out in a male-dominated sphere; it can also involve uplifting women in roles where they are already present. Alas, as her sister points out, "You do seem like the outliers." Okay pick me.
Despite these criticisms, this book shows considerable potential, and the author undoubtedly has a brilliant concept at its core. With more experience, I’m confident that her future works will become even more polished and impactful. Overall, I still found the book enjoyable and believe it marks a promising beginning.
Picking this one up, I made sure not to expect a mere imitation of Harry Potter. Instead, I hoped that Anna Tan would bring her unique touch to the story of Jurusihir (wizard). From the synopsis itself, I was hoping for a deeper dive into the world of 'sihir' (magic) and the tension between Mira and Zeid as a rival. Instead, the book focuses more on themes of women’s rights and patriarchy.
This shift in focus might come as a surprise if you were expecting a magical rivalry, but it is worth noting that if you approach the book with the right expectations, you might find its exploration of social issues just as engaging. I, on the other hand, had delve this book with a wrong expectation and wrong expectations would sometimes lead to a disappointment.
I truly appreciate how Anna Tan integrates Malaysian culture into the little worldbuilding of Jurusihir. While the magic systems, such as the Helmi Tracker and Sihir Mask might not seem grand and may appear to have limited development in its storytelling - I still find it brilliant how the author has crafted her own unique vision of a magical world, set in assuming the 20th century.
However, it seems the author may have written this with a primarily Malaysian audience in mind, as there is little explanation of the jargon, which could be confusing for non-Malaysians (I am always in hope every Malaysian book out there would break internationally). But I do think this book has accessible writing especially for beginners.
Now, to be an author is also to be a researcher and so it is important to accurately portray the backgrounds of your characters. I was particularly disappointed with the lack of detail about how the Helmi Tracker was innovated into a safety tracker during the tournament or just how the magic ever works there. Much of the story felt superficial, like a tale drifting in the wind.
Although the book was written in a very YA-esque despite its feature of new adult characters, this approach isn't inherently bad. It is well-suited for its target audience and could be a great choice for those looking for something accessible and engaging. However, more experienced readers might find it less captivating. Again, I was not expecting it to be a copy of Harry Potter, but the story does feel a bit surface-level and monotonous at times. While it has its merits, it might not offer the depth some readers are looking for.
Another point of disappointment was the use of the 'not like other girls' trope. The book addresses women's struggles in a male-dominated field but contradicts this with its portrayal of the protagonist, who is framed as exceptional simply because she is different from other women. I hoped for a character who would empower others and challenge the status quo, but instead, she appears to look down on her sister's work with the 'Sihir Mask,' surprised that she could be so smart, especially since she had always assumed her sister's decision to pursue a more female-dominated field meant she wasn't capable of such intellect. True empowerment does not require one to stand out in a male-dominated sphere; it can also involve uplifting women in roles where they are already present. Alas, as her sister points out, "You do seem like the outliers." Okay pick me.
Despite these criticisms, this book shows considerable potential, and the author undoubtedly has a brilliant concept at its core. With more experience, I’m confident that her future works will become even more polished and impactful. Overall, I still found the book enjoyable and believe it marks a promising beginning.
December 29, 2025
Very light book that you can finish in one sitting.
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