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Olaf and Essex
A fox and bear take on bumbling witch kidnappers and the NYPD’s Chief Magic Detector to protect a magical baby and the witches of New York.
In an alternate New York City, Olaf, a bear living in Central Park, accidentally scares away two witches. They leave behind a baby, whom they’d kidnapped to force the father—the NYPD’s Chief Magic Detector—to stop harassing the magical community.
Olaf’s mother died when he was just a cub, so his natural instinct is to protect the child. When he and his best friend Essex, a fox, find the presumed parents and attempt to return the baby, they witness the female witch, in a fit of pique, turn her husband into a frog.
Now Olaf and Essex must keep the baby safe, find the real mother, keep the magical baby away from her Magic Detector father, and avoid getting turned into frogs.
In an alternate New York City, Olaf, a bear living in Central Park, accidentally scares away two witches. They leave behind a baby, whom they’d kidnapped to force the father—the NYPD’s Chief Magic Detector—to stop harassing the magical community.
Olaf’s mother died when he was just a cub, so his natural instinct is to protect the child. When he and his best friend Essex, a fox, find the presumed parents and attempt to return the baby, they witness the female witch, in a fit of pique, turn her husband into a frog.
Now Olaf and Essex must keep the baby safe, find the real mother, keep the magical baby away from her Magic Detector father, and avoid getting turned into frogs.
352 pages, Paperback
Published October 13, 2024
About the author
Patti Calkosz
1 book49 followersAs a child, Patti Calkosz would have loved to have been rescued by a talking fox and bear. Like many kids, she grew up in an environment where it didn’t feel safe to be her authentic self. She created a protective shell in which to hide, which led to deep unhappiness, social isolation, a self-perception of being “dull,” and escalating health problems.
Employing “alternative” healing practices later in life, Patti’s energy began to open up, unleashing her creativity. She loves making people laugh and writing about important social issues in an entertaining way.
Employing “alternative” healing practices later in life, Patti’s energy began to open up, unleashing her creativity. She loves making people laugh and writing about important social issues in an entertaining way.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
October 12, 2024
In a Nutshell: A MG/YA book with some animals, some witches, and a magical baby. Started off well but soon became too haphazard for my liking. Also didn’t like some of the story development choices. This is an outlier review.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
Bookish Yays:
🐻 Olaf and Essex: friends with distinct personalities. Olaf goes more by his heart while Essex follows her head. They are nice titular characters for the most part of the book. I found it funny how Essex learns everything she can about humans by secretly watching TV through their windows.
🐻 A few other nice characters, especially Helga and Hilda.
🐻 The idea of magic-competent humans and their persecution for nefarious reasons. This could have been handled better, but it was a great central conflict nonetheless.
🐻 Plenty of B&W illustrations throughout the book. They are perfect for the story. I loved all the graphics.
🐻 The cover is stunning!
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🦊 The story started off well, and I looked forward to how Olaf and Essex would keep/return the baby. Sadly, the proceedings become too disjointed as the plot progresses. There are needless tangents, there are detailed backstories that affect the contemporary pacing, there are too many characters with each having their own issues to handle. The overall effect was quite jumpy.
🦊 The above is made worse by the frequent character hopping. The story comes to us from too many characters, not all of whom are relevant to the central plot. Some of the perspectives are interesting, some feel more like they were added to extend the story. On the positive side, the shift in perspectives is clearly marked in the book, so there’s no confusion about who is talking.
🦊 There are way too many themes in the book. (Yup, you guessed it! A debut work with an overloaded kitchen sink!) Other than the core themes, we have dyslexia, judgement based on looks, body image issues, grief, abusive parents, kidnapping, parental death, spousal death, abandonment issues, animal death (natural and murder), toxic sibling relationships,… I stopped noting after a point. Some of these were necessary for the central plotline, most weren’t. I was especially unsure about the seemingly religious undertone of one particular thread connected to the divine presence of animal spirits.
🦊 The alternate Central Park was an interesting setting, what with witches and magic all around. However, the setting needed to be established better. I didn’t get why so many hibernators were still awake and active during winter time.
Bookish Nays:
😾 The cover, the title, and the blurb makes this sound like an entertaining magical adventure. However, the book goes too dark. I expected more focus on the two animals and the baby, but the animals get only a shared part of the spotlight and the baby was more of an afterthought in the proceedings, especially in between. I don’t think the title reflects the book accurately.
😾 At 350+ pages, this is too lengthy for a middle-grade novel. It might have still worked with a more focussed plot, but in its current structure, it feels more like it has been unnecessarily lengthened.
😾 It is quite confusing to have Helga and Hilda as the names of two sibling characters who play a key role. I kept muddling between the two of them as they are so similar in name and background, and later, in behaviour. Another perplexing naming choice was to have a cat (again, a central character) named Baby, when there was already an abandoned human baby referred to as ‘baby’. Imagine the discombobulation if someone is reading this book aloud to their child and has to distinguish between Baby and baby, who appear in the same scene multiple times!
😾 Too many scenes of animals being hurt, and several scenes of animals being killed and eaten. All of this is correct as per natural food chains, but did it really have to go so overboard in showing this? One or two instances would have been fine. I don’t even want to talk about the idea of an animal praying over their victim before attacking/killing them. Not a fan of human practices being imposed on animals.
😾 Too much talk of death and the spirit world, and a couple of main characters dying (not naturally.) I found especially awkward the scene where we learn that Olaf has taken some clothes (for disguise) from a dead human body in the park. It was just creepy!
😾 The story spans too long a time period without any indication of the passing of the months. Baby (the human, not the cat) even starts babbling and talking sensible sentences later in the story, when it still seems to be the same season roughly.
😾 The ending is somewhat rushed and abrupt.
😾 There are a few negative comments about physical traits such as bulbous noses and baldness, and remarks such as “Are you deaf?” Not something I like to see in children’s books.
😾 This sentence: “Magic was an amazing tool . . . just like guns. But like any tool, it could be utilized for good or for evil.” Please give me one good reason why this analogy needed to involve guns! It’s written for middle-graders! Why does a child that age (or any age) need to learn that guns are “amazing tools”?
This is supposed to be a middle-grade adventure (age group 8-12 years). So I was looking forward to a relaxing, light-hearted novel, but that didn’t happen. The story still has some nice moments and interesting magical battles, demonstrating highly creative thinking. But it has too much happening with not enough depth to any subplot or character.
I discovered only later that this is listed on Amazon as Book One of the ‘The Magic Competents’ series. If this is accurate, then the title is even more misleading because Olaf and Essex aren’t the magic competents at all. To be fair, the magic competent arc is much more attractive than the actual animals-find-human-baby arc. I wish the plotting and the packaging of the book had been revamped to focus more on the magic competents.
I feel somewhat guilty when an indie book doesn’t work for me. But there is no way I can enthusiastically recommend this story to middle-graders when it ticked so many red flags for me. With some strict editing and culling of extraneous content, and perhaps a revised title and targeting an older reading audience, this book might work better.
That said, please note that this is very much an outlier review. As Edmund Wilson said, no two persons ever read the same book. So do go through the other reviews and take a more informed call on this novel.
2 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through her publicist. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book. Truly sorry it didn’t work out better.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
Olaf the bear and his best friend Essex the red fox, among other animals, live in Central Park of an alternate-reality New York City.
One night, Olaf ends up scaring away two witches by accident. While they fly away without any delay, they unintentionally leave behind a baby they had kidnapped to spit her father, NYPD’s Chief Magic Detector who is cracking down on the magic community. Olaf, who assumes the witches to be the baby’s parents, knows that he had felt sad when his mother had died many years ago, and so he must ensure that this baby doesn’t feel sad or lonely. He knows that Essex will help him. But what is the best way out – rear the little one themselves or somehow locate her parents in this huge city?
The story comes to us from the third-person perspective of several characters.
Bookish Yays:
🐻 Olaf and Essex: friends with distinct personalities. Olaf goes more by his heart while Essex follows her head. They are nice titular characters for the most part of the book. I found it funny how Essex learns everything she can about humans by secretly watching TV through their windows.
🐻 A few other nice characters, especially Helga and Hilda.
🐻 The idea of magic-competent humans and their persecution for nefarious reasons. This could have been handled better, but it was a great central conflict nonetheless.
🐻 Plenty of B&W illustrations throughout the book. They are perfect for the story. I loved all the graphics.
🐻 The cover is stunning!
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🦊 The story started off well, and I looked forward to how Olaf and Essex would keep/return the baby. Sadly, the proceedings become too disjointed as the plot progresses. There are needless tangents, there are detailed backstories that affect the contemporary pacing, there are too many characters with each having their own issues to handle. The overall effect was quite jumpy.
🦊 The above is made worse by the frequent character hopping. The story comes to us from too many characters, not all of whom are relevant to the central plot. Some of the perspectives are interesting, some feel more like they were added to extend the story. On the positive side, the shift in perspectives is clearly marked in the book, so there’s no confusion about who is talking.
🦊 There are way too many themes in the book. (Yup, you guessed it! A debut work with an overloaded kitchen sink!) Other than the core themes, we have dyslexia, judgement based on looks, body image issues, grief, abusive parents, kidnapping, parental death, spousal death, abandonment issues, animal death (natural and murder), toxic sibling relationships,… I stopped noting after a point. Some of these were necessary for the central plotline, most weren’t. I was especially unsure about the seemingly religious undertone of one particular thread connected to the divine presence of animal spirits.
🦊 The alternate Central Park was an interesting setting, what with witches and magic all around. However, the setting needed to be established better. I didn’t get why so many hibernators were still awake and active during winter time.
Bookish Nays:
😾 The cover, the title, and the blurb makes this sound like an entertaining magical adventure. However, the book goes too dark. I expected more focus on the two animals and the baby, but the animals get only a shared part of the spotlight and the baby was more of an afterthought in the proceedings, especially in between. I don’t think the title reflects the book accurately.
😾 At 350+ pages, this is too lengthy for a middle-grade novel. It might have still worked with a more focussed plot, but in its current structure, it feels more like it has been unnecessarily lengthened.
😾 It is quite confusing to have Helga and Hilda as the names of two sibling characters who play a key role. I kept muddling between the two of them as they are so similar in name and background, and later, in behaviour. Another perplexing naming choice was to have a cat (again, a central character) named Baby, when there was already an abandoned human baby referred to as ‘baby’. Imagine the discombobulation if someone is reading this book aloud to their child and has to distinguish between Baby and baby, who appear in the same scene multiple times!
😾 Too many scenes of animals being hurt, and several scenes of animals being killed and eaten. All of this is correct as per natural food chains, but did it really have to go so overboard in showing this? One or two instances would have been fine. I don’t even want to talk about the idea of an animal praying over their victim before attacking/killing them. Not a fan of human practices being imposed on animals.
😾 Too much talk of death and the spirit world, and a couple of main characters dying (not naturally.) I found especially awkward the scene where we learn that Olaf has taken some clothes (for disguise) from a dead human body in the park. It was just creepy!
😾 The story spans too long a time period without any indication of the passing of the months. Baby (the human, not the cat) even starts babbling and talking sensible sentences later in the story, when it still seems to be the same season roughly.
😾 The ending is somewhat rushed and abrupt.
😾 There are a few negative comments about physical traits such as bulbous noses and baldness, and remarks such as “Are you deaf?” Not something I like to see in children’s books.
😾 This sentence: “Magic was an amazing tool . . . just like guns. But like any tool, it could be utilized for good or for evil.” Please give me one good reason why this analogy needed to involve guns! It’s written for middle-graders! Why does a child that age (or any age) need to learn that guns are “amazing tools”?
This is supposed to be a middle-grade adventure (age group 8-12 years). So I was looking forward to a relaxing, light-hearted novel, but that didn’t happen. The story still has some nice moments and interesting magical battles, demonstrating highly creative thinking. But it has too much happening with not enough depth to any subplot or character.
I discovered only later that this is listed on Amazon as Book One of the ‘The Magic Competents’ series. If this is accurate, then the title is even more misleading because Olaf and Essex aren’t the magic competents at all. To be fair, the magic competent arc is much more attractive than the actual animals-find-human-baby arc. I wish the plotting and the packaging of the book had been revamped to focus more on the magic competents.
I feel somewhat guilty when an indie book doesn’t work for me. But there is no way I can enthusiastically recommend this story to middle-graders when it ticked so many red flags for me. With some strict editing and culling of extraneous content, and perhaps a revised title and targeting an older reading audience, this book might work better.
That said, please note that this is very much an outlier review. As Edmund Wilson said, no two persons ever read the same book. So do go through the other reviews and take a more informed call on this novel.
2 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through her publicist. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book. Truly sorry it didn’t work out better.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
September 24, 2024
This is a story of a bear named Olaf and his friend, Essex, who is a fox. When Olaf comes across two witches in the park, his presence scares the witches enough that they leave without taking the baby with them, the baby they were attempting to kidnap in order to force the Chief Magic Detector to leave the magical community alone.
But this baby isn’t just any baby. It’s the son of the Chief Magic Detector.
Olaf really feels for this baby, he was just a cub when his mother died, and his tender heart tells him that they need to care for the baby until they can find the parents, so Olaf and Essex go in search of who they believe is the mother, only to see her turn her husband into a frog.
Olaf and Essex do their best to care for the baby, and to keep him healthy and well fed, while at the same time keeping this magical baby safe and sound, and attempting to find the baby’s real mother and return the baby to her, and keeping the baby away from her father.
There’s a lot of mischief going on in this story, which is all in the name of keeping the baby safe and sound, sprinkled with a dose of magical charm, as well.
Pub Date: 15 Oct 2024
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Pretty Cool / Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op
September 27, 2024
“A fox and a bear take on bumbling witch kidnappers and the NYPD’s Chief Magic Detector to protect a magical baby and the witches of New York”
Olaf, the bear, and Essex, the fox, along with their friend Baby, the cat, come together to care and protect this magical baby from more than just bad witches.
If you like cozy fall reads, magic, animals, and finding a family of your own, this is the perfect book for you!
This book was the cutest thing I have ever read. This is a children’s/middle grade book that anyone can enjoy and appreciate. Loved the journey it took us on and the illustrations! It deals with some tough topics in such a beautiful way. This is a story, not only of protecting this magical baby, but also of friendship, and love. A story of life and death and the magic of the world. Such a perfect book to read while cozied up by the fire with some hot cocoa. Definitely recommend!! :)
Olaf, the bear, and Essex, the fox, along with their friend Baby, the cat, come together to care and protect this magical baby from more than just bad witches.
If you like cozy fall reads, magic, animals, and finding a family of your own, this is the perfect book for you!
This book was the cutest thing I have ever read. This is a children’s/middle grade book that anyone can enjoy and appreciate. Loved the journey it took us on and the illustrations! It deals with some tough topics in such a beautiful way. This is a story, not only of protecting this magical baby, but also of friendship, and love. A story of life and death and the magic of the world. Such a perfect book to read while cozied up by the fire with some hot cocoa. Definitely recommend!! :)
October 16, 2024
Some books are harder to review than others… oddly enough this one has definitely been my hardest one this year… Mostly because as a children’s book I was not expecting the story to be what it was and to touch me, as an adult and mom, as it did. I LOVED this book so much. I hope every one that reads my review gives it a go and has their own heart touching experience.
Happy Reading Lovelies!
Happy Reading Lovelies!
November 26, 2024
Olaf the bear and Essex the fox, both friends, find a kidnapped baby and take care of it, then try to return the kid to its rightful parents. They get mixed up with witches and the magic police force, all while trying to feed and care for a powerfully magical baby. Unbeknownst to Olaf and Essex the fox, there is human intrigue and crime happening around them, with anti-witch legislation at stake.
There was a lot a lot going on in this book. In addition to a lovely friendship between the clever, kind and grieving Essex and the grieving Olaf, there are arguments between sister witches, a cat hurt by her experiences with some humans who is looking for her former person, a police officer intent on constraining magic, an abusive marriage between two adults, visits from ghosts, so much travel around the city, and probably more.
I found the book too long, the story at times surprisingly dark for what is meant to be a book for 9-12 year-olds, a plot that felt disjointed at times and just kept going to places that could perhaps have been trimmed out for a tighter story.
So, what I liked:
-The illustrations:
-Olaf the bear: sweet, caring, conscientious
-Essex the fox: smart, clever, the one with the plan, caring, always learning
What did not work for me:
-I could not keep Helga and Hilda straight in my mind
-Lots of animal deaths, some at the hands of humans. Death is part of life, but all it made me feel was that the cat was totally right about humanity
-I sometimes could not tell if the author was referring to the human child or the cat, who was named Baby
-The story's tone was much darker than I expected, as it was full of cruelty
-The cover gave me the impression this would be a charming, amusing story of two friends, but instead was more about the controlling of those with magical powers
Overall rating: 2 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Pretty Cool for this ARC in exchange for my review.
There was a lot a lot going on in this book. In addition to a lovely friendship between the clever, kind and grieving Essex and the grieving Olaf, there are arguments between sister witches, a cat hurt by her experiences with some humans who is looking for her former person, a police officer intent on constraining magic, an abusive marriage between two adults, visits from ghosts, so much travel around the city, and probably more.
I found the book too long, the story at times surprisingly dark for what is meant to be a book for 9-12 year-olds, a plot that felt disjointed at times and just kept going to places that could perhaps have been trimmed out for a tighter story.
So, what I liked:
-The illustrations:
-Olaf the bear: sweet, caring, conscientious
-Essex the fox: smart, clever, the one with the plan, caring, always learning
What did not work for me:
-I could not keep Helga and Hilda straight in my mind
-Lots of animal deaths, some at the hands of humans. Death is part of life, but all it made me feel was that the cat was totally right about humanity
-I sometimes could not tell if the author was referring to the human child or the cat, who was named Baby
-The story's tone was much darker than I expected, as it was full of cruelty
-The cover gave me the impression this would be a charming, amusing story of two friends, but instead was more about the controlling of those with magical powers
Overall rating: 2 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Pretty Cool for this ARC in exchange for my review.
October 31, 2024
This story is about a fox named, Essex and a bear named Olaf; who happened to save a baby from a very bad witch. The bad witch had stolen the baby from her sister and brother in law(who was chief of police). Olaf and Essex had looked to the supernatural community (witches and park animals) to help protect this baby. But as time went on, with good intention of given the baby back to the parents but the animals couldn’t do that. The baby had a special power that in the wrong hands could do serious damage. The baby grew attached to the animals that she didn’t want to go back.
For a middle grade/YA fantasy any kid or adult would enjoy this adventure. Learning from right and wrong, to learning to read, etc.
For a middle grade/YA fantasy any kid or adult would enjoy this adventure. Learning from right and wrong, to learning to read, etc.
September 16, 2024
This was a cute story for lower middle grade readers about a bear and a fox and a cat and a baby. After said baby is found abandoned in the park by some not so nice witches, the bear and fox spend the rest of the story trying to reunite her with her real family with the help of a pair of very odd sisters.
The story was amusing and heart warming. Perfect for a read aloud with kids in that 7-10 year old range. I do think that there were some unnecessary points of view from extraneous characters, which often split off in inconvenient places that I didn't care about as a reader when I wanted to be focused on the main characters. Because of that, it made the story definitely feel less memorable in places and made me want to skim as a reader so I could get back to the characters I cared about.
Overall, though, a very sweet story with some very funny and well-written animal characters.
The story was amusing and heart warming. Perfect for a read aloud with kids in that 7-10 year old range. I do think that there were some unnecessary points of view from extraneous characters, which often split off in inconvenient places that I didn't care about as a reader when I wanted to be focused on the main characters. Because of that, it made the story definitely feel less memorable in places and made me want to skim as a reader so I could get back to the characters I cared about.
Overall, though, a very sweet story with some very funny and well-written animal characters.
October 15, 2024
Good witches,bad witches, magic and a missing baby
Read this story to find out what happens when the baby(named FOOTBALL) is found and cared for by a fox a bear and a cat, who truly dedicate their lives to saving this baby from the bad witch and finding the family the baby belongs to
This is a story both children and adults can enjoy reading together or alone
There is multiple mentions of death and a brief graphic seen where animals are killed
Eagerly awaiting book 2
Read this story to find out what happens when the baby(named FOOTBALL) is found and cared for by a fox a bear and a cat, who truly dedicate their lives to saving this baby from the bad witch and finding the family the baby belongs to
This is a story both children and adults can enjoy reading together or alone
There is multiple mentions of death and a brief graphic seen where animals are killed
Eagerly awaiting book 2
July 27, 2025
10 starship need to get this book from B + W, I love it so much!!!!!!!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
September 1, 2024
Oh my goodness this book was adorable! How can you resist cute animals. This is a perfect for fall. My son didn’t want me to stop reading and flew through it in two sessions. It’s a great mix of cuteness, adventure, action, and found family.
October 20, 2024
Olaf and Essex is a cute, magical debut. I can tell the author really wanted to create a world where children can dream of being rescued by wildlife as a baby and go against an evil witch.
While this is a cute story, I felt that the story beats were disjointed. Many times, I felt taken out of the book due to the flow of conversations, strange comedic timing, and confusion on character traits. Some chapters felt more polished than others and there was a strange sense of carefulness on the work. Almost as if the author was still holding back on little details that could help enhance the story.
That doesn't mean there were no good parts! For example, the more emotional moments involving Essex and her past were still written well and easy to digest for younger readers.
All this to say, the story and premise are great, but the execution was somewhat lacking in more than one area. I do hope to see how this author transforms in the next project!
While this is a cute story, I felt that the story beats were disjointed. Many times, I felt taken out of the book due to the flow of conversations, strange comedic timing, and confusion on character traits. Some chapters felt more polished than others and there was a strange sense of carefulness on the work. Almost as if the author was still holding back on little details that could help enhance the story.
That doesn't mean there were no good parts! For example, the more emotional moments involving Essex and her past were still written well and easy to digest for younger readers.
All this to say, the story and premise are great, but the execution was somewhat lacking in more than one area. I do hope to see how this author transforms in the next project!
September 20, 2024
Great whimsical, fun, and a little thrilling, a bear and a fox save a human baby, but beware, there are good witches and bad witches everywhere trying to get to the baby who will win this is a good story for any age ..read it and prepare for the sequel
January 8, 2025
Such a fun story! My daughter ate this book up, carrying it with her wherever she went!
January 30, 2025
(Thank you to the author for the ARC! All opinions are 100% my own)
"Even in the midst of turmoil, there was always something to be thankful for."
This quote captures the essence of this story so well.
I'm a firm believer that a good middle-grade story can be enjoyed by readers of any age. Olaf and Essex is a good example of that. I'd argue that adults might even enjoy it more than children! More so about this later.
The story follows several characters through an adventure (in the cases of some, misadventure) revolving around a very special baby. Two of those characters are Olaf the bear and Essex the fox. This might be taking place in New York, but this is a very different city from the one we're used to. A city where the NYPD's Chief Magic Detector just won't stop going after the magical community.
Throughout the story, you will find yourself asking who really should be raising the baby and what could possibly happen next?
While the story sounds very cutesy and almost childlike on the surface, this book delves into darker, and often mature, themes like: Resentment between parent and child, falling out of love between spouses, abandonment, cruelty, giving up and even grief and death. Many times, throughout the book, animals hunt and eat one another. Witches tear wings off of bats. Many deaths.
This alongside with the vocabulary and references (such as many Macbeth and Shakespearean quotes) being used at times had me pause a couple times and double check whether this is marketed for middle-grade or if I'm misremembering. That being said, I remembered that as a middle-grader, I really enjoyed some of the darker stories.
I, an adult in my 30s, cried like a baby so much towards the end for reasons I can't reveal too much about without spoilers, but the writing, the imagery and the events did get to me. But I'll be honest, I cherished it. Not just those scenes but the story as a whole.
It reminded me a lot of Diana Wynne Jones' books where yes, the story may jump around a bit, but the conclusion will be so worth it. And the magic in this universe, the world building and the characterization are all done so well.
Overall, I really adored this book (you already know that from the rating) and I am already looking forward to the second book. As an adult, I think you'd find the journey whimsical, introspective, funny and touching. If you're considering this for a child, I would read it first and then decide whether or not your child would stomach and comprehend the themes.
As for me, I honestly can't wait to read the next book in the Magic-Competents series. The sneak peek we get at the end of Book 1 has me hooked!
P.S: The illustrations are gorgeous!
"Even in the midst of turmoil, there was always something to be thankful for."
This quote captures the essence of this story so well.
I'm a firm believer that a good middle-grade story can be enjoyed by readers of any age. Olaf and Essex is a good example of that. I'd argue that adults might even enjoy it more than children! More so about this later.
The story follows several characters through an adventure (in the cases of some, misadventure) revolving around a very special baby. Two of those characters are Olaf the bear and Essex the fox. This might be taking place in New York, but this is a very different city from the one we're used to. A city where the NYPD's Chief Magic Detector just won't stop going after the magical community.
Throughout the story, you will find yourself asking who really should be raising the baby and what could possibly happen next?
While the story sounds very cutesy and almost childlike on the surface, this book delves into darker, and often mature, themes like: Resentment between parent and child, falling out of love between spouses, abandonment, cruelty, giving up and even grief and death. Many times, throughout the book, animals hunt and eat one another. Witches tear wings off of bats. Many deaths.
This alongside with the vocabulary and references (such as many Macbeth and Shakespearean quotes) being used at times had me pause a couple times and double check whether this is marketed for middle-grade or if I'm misremembering. That being said, I remembered that as a middle-grader, I really enjoyed some of the darker stories.
I, an adult in my 30s, cried like a baby so much towards the end for reasons I can't reveal too much about without spoilers, but the writing, the imagery and the events did get to me. But I'll be honest, I cherished it. Not just those scenes but the story as a whole.
It reminded me a lot of Diana Wynne Jones' books where yes, the story may jump around a bit, but the conclusion will be so worth it. And the magic in this universe, the world building and the characterization are all done so well.
Overall, I really adored this book (you already know that from the rating) and I am already looking forward to the second book. As an adult, I think you'd find the journey whimsical, introspective, funny and touching. If you're considering this for a child, I would read it first and then decide whether or not your child would stomach and comprehend the themes.
As for me, I honestly can't wait to read the next book in the Magic-Competents series. The sneak peek we get at the end of Book 1 has me hooked!
P.S: The illustrations are gorgeous!
October 15, 2024
Olaf and Essex by Patti Calcosz is a beautifully and richly woven story about love and loss, friendship and family, and both the best and worst of humanity's treatment of others, both human and nonhuman. There are wonderful illustrations by Xiao, and Calcosz knows how to pull at the heartstrings and bring in some much needed silliness and comic relief into the story.
By making the main protagonists a bear and fox who not only form their own family but have a deeper understanding of how the human world works, the story will resonate with readers of different age groups, adults, adolescents, and younger middle graders. Calcosz brings in wonderful details that really enhance the story, and all the characters are richly drawn with lots of complex traits and character development (except maybe the Chief Detector, who is a but more a stereotypical "evil" tyrant). Even Mabel, the prime "nemesis," has some depth and complexity.
I would recommend this book for older middle graders (7th grade and older), as they might be better equipped emotionally to deal with aspects of loss and death (of a parent and other loved ones) than younger readers. Those younger readers could certainly understand these themes and situations, but they may need more explanations and comfort from caring adults to deal with what could be confusing and frightening emotions. I found myself tearing up in lots of scenes, and it reminded me of my own complicated emotions with watching Bambi and Dumbo as a child, films I still (at 64) have problems watching.
The story is very well written, and the way the chapters are divided lend themselves to good read aloud sessions with mom or dad (or other adult caretaker) for younger readers. The details of New York's famed Central Park landmarks are fantastic, and the development of Olaf's and Essex's growing attachment to the baby they rescue, as well as the emotions they and Baby the cat experience in regards to their individual losses are sensitively and poignantly expressed, which will endear these characters to readers. The story also would have the effect of helping younger and older readers gave more compassion, empathy, and care for the animal species we share our planet with.
One question that remained unanswered for me, and that other readers may wonder about, is what exactly happened at the Zoo that made the animals scatter and flee into the Park?
I thank Patti Calcosz and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this Advance Review Copy for free, and I leave this review voluntarily. I wish Calcosz good luck with this beautiful novel, and look forward to reading the next in the series.
By making the main protagonists a bear and fox who not only form their own family but have a deeper understanding of how the human world works, the story will resonate with readers of different age groups, adults, adolescents, and younger middle graders. Calcosz brings in wonderful details that really enhance the story, and all the characters are richly drawn with lots of complex traits and character development (except maybe the Chief Detector, who is a but more a stereotypical "evil" tyrant). Even Mabel, the prime "nemesis," has some depth and complexity.
I would recommend this book for older middle graders (7th grade and older), as they might be better equipped emotionally to deal with aspects of loss and death (of a parent and other loved ones) than younger readers. Those younger readers could certainly understand these themes and situations, but they may need more explanations and comfort from caring adults to deal with what could be confusing and frightening emotions. I found myself tearing up in lots of scenes, and it reminded me of my own complicated emotions with watching Bambi and Dumbo as a child, films I still (at 64) have problems watching.
The story is very well written, and the way the chapters are divided lend themselves to good read aloud sessions with mom or dad (or other adult caretaker) for younger readers. The details of New York's famed Central Park landmarks are fantastic, and the development of Olaf's and Essex's growing attachment to the baby they rescue, as well as the emotions they and Baby the cat experience in regards to their individual losses are sensitively and poignantly expressed, which will endear these characters to readers. The story also would have the effect of helping younger and older readers gave more compassion, empathy, and care for the animal species we share our planet with.
One question that remained unanswered for me, and that other readers may wonder about, is what exactly happened at the Zoo that made the animals scatter and flee into the Park?
I thank Patti Calcosz and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this Advance Review Copy for free, and I leave this review voluntarily. I wish Calcosz good luck with this beautiful novel, and look forward to reading the next in the series.
September 27, 2024
***The book may not be suitable for sensitive readers***
This was a book that I answered an ad for on FB while I must say that I was impressed to be offered an actual physical book instead of an ebook as most publishers and authors do nowadays.
The actual book of Olaf and Essex was a lot thicker than I expected and as a result I quickly made a judgment call that it wasn't to be of my YA - Juvenile shelf even though other elements may have suggested otherwise. And surely by the time I reached the end it definitely wasn't suited for the shelf I would have first assigned it to.
Here readers are introduced to a cobbled-together family of lost souls each looking for something while tucked into a story as commonplace as New York but facing an actual witch hunt under the corrupted power of a single prejudiced official. To throw in another kick to an insanely busy story, though, the actions of our so-called villain also start out rather innocuous to all intents and purposes.
As a result of so many different storylines is the reason for the book's bigger size and the fact the book actually doesn't take place over a smaller time range but starts out as such then tackles a much bigger time range. Unfortunately the author already wants me to suspend belief that frogs (which aren't slimy) and snakes just happen to be cavorting around New York in the dead of winter that a futher super-scale exponential leaps-and-bounds development plus survival of a child in same environment is too much.
Parts of the book do feel repetitive since of their similarities to others episodes, other parts seemed added to pad the book and the surprising toll at the end, which I haven't seen in much newer books in a while, all were rather a part of the experience.
What makes this book different, though, is that the book has illustrations for a book of its size and they are rather decent. Furthermore the chapters coming from different points-of-view are preceded with a "bust"of the character who is narrating at the moment, which is rather creative.
The book did keep my attention when I had a moment to read it just to keep the plot going so I can't say all parts were slow and dull.
All in all it was an interesting and creative read but one that since of the author's own overambition just made it much too hard to really enjoy as a much lighter read as a brief preview would certainly suggest.
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
This was a book that I answered an ad for on FB while I must say that I was impressed to be offered an actual physical book instead of an ebook as most publishers and authors do nowadays.
The actual book of Olaf and Essex was a lot thicker than I expected and as a result I quickly made a judgment call that it wasn't to be of my YA - Juvenile shelf even though other elements may have suggested otherwise. And surely by the time I reached the end it definitely wasn't suited for the shelf I would have first assigned it to.
Here readers are introduced to a cobbled-together family of lost souls each looking for something while tucked into a story as commonplace as New York but facing an actual witch hunt under the corrupted power of a single prejudiced official. To throw in another kick to an insanely busy story, though, the actions of our so-called villain also start out rather innocuous to all intents and purposes.
As a result of so many different storylines is the reason for the book's bigger size and the fact the book actually doesn't take place over a smaller time range but starts out as such then tackles a much bigger time range. Unfortunately the author already wants me to suspend belief that frogs (which aren't slimy) and snakes just happen to be cavorting around New York in the dead of winter that a futher super-scale exponential leaps-and-bounds development plus survival of a child in same environment is too much.
Parts of the book do feel repetitive since of their similarities to others episodes, other parts seemed added to pad the book and the surprising toll at the end, which I haven't seen in much newer books in a while, all were rather a part of the experience.
What makes this book different, though, is that the book has illustrations for a book of its size and they are rather decent. Furthermore the chapters coming from different points-of-view are preceded with a "bust"of the character who is narrating at the moment, which is rather creative.
The book did keep my attention when I had a moment to read it just to keep the plot going so I can't say all parts were slow and dull.
All in all it was an interesting and creative read but one that since of the author's own overambition just made it much too hard to really enjoy as a much lighter read as a brief preview would certainly suggest.
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
October 13, 2024
4.5 stars
This book was so precious! But I loved that it wasn’t just a simple cute book at all. It contained so many discussions about life and death, good and evil, doing the right thing, etc. Each character seemed to have an important role pushing the plot and providing representation for a certain character archetype.
And I loved most of the characters. One criticism, though… towards the human characters in this book. How can you constantly let the animals prove that they’re more humane than you could ever be? 😒 Where’s the development? Some characters were actually so painfully frustrating, all of them being humans, by the way. The three main animal characters, however, Olaf, Essex, and Baby, were the sweetest friends who loved each other so, so much. It was heartwarming to see whenever they supported each other despite having their own disagreements, or how they communicated their feelings so well. And the human baby was the most precious being ever. So, so cute. 🥰
My favorite part of this book was the writing. Right away, it was so witty and fun. It definitely made this book and more dynamic and engaging journey! And I loved how the story was told from so many different perspectives. There were at least 8 different perspectives I can think of, some brief, others consistent throughout the book. It might sound jarring, but I thought it was really fun.
Lastly, I wanted to talk about the ending. Or, specifically, the entire last 50 pages of the book. This part was so intense. There was so much going on, and it felt like all the characters were involved. There were so many different emotions in these last few chapters: sadness, frustration, grief, acceptance, hope, etc. It was bittersweet, but still a great ending.
Thank you to the author for the copy! All opinions are my own.
This book was so precious! But I loved that it wasn’t just a simple cute book at all. It contained so many discussions about life and death, good and evil, doing the right thing, etc. Each character seemed to have an important role pushing the plot and providing representation for a certain character archetype.
And I loved most of the characters. One criticism, though… towards the human characters in this book. How can you constantly let the animals prove that they’re more humane than you could ever be? 😒 Where’s the development? Some characters were actually so painfully frustrating, all of them being humans, by the way. The three main animal characters, however, Olaf, Essex, and Baby, were the sweetest friends who loved each other so, so much. It was heartwarming to see whenever they supported each other despite having their own disagreements, or how they communicated their feelings so well. And the human baby was the most precious being ever. So, so cute. 🥰
My favorite part of this book was the writing. Right away, it was so witty and fun. It definitely made this book and more dynamic and engaging journey! And I loved how the story was told from so many different perspectives. There were at least 8 different perspectives I can think of, some brief, others consistent throughout the book. It might sound jarring, but I thought it was really fun.
Lastly, I wanted to talk about the ending. Or, specifically, the entire last 50 pages of the book. This part was so intense. There was so much going on, and it felt like all the characters were involved. There were so many different emotions in these last few chapters: sadness, frustration, grief, acceptance, hope, etc. It was bittersweet, but still a great ending.
Thank you to the author for the copy! All opinions are my own.
October 15, 2024
𝐵𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓈 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒻𝑜𝓍𝑒𝓈 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒸𝒽𝑒𝓈, 𝑜𝒽 𝓂𝓎!
🐻 Meet Olaf, a bear with a heart as big as his belly, and his best bud, Essex, a clever fox with a taste for adventure. One day, they stumble upon two witches, Helga & Hilda, in the park who are up to no good—like seriously no good—trying to kidnap a baby. Apparently, witches are terrible babysitters because they freak out the second they see Olaf and hightail it out of there, leaving the baby behind. But here’s the twist—this isn’t just any baby, it’s the son of the Chief Magic Detector. (Yes, that’s a real job title in this world.)
🦊 Olaf, being the sweet, fuzzy softie he is, can’t just leave the baby. He’s got a tragic backstory, of course—lost his mom when he was just a cub—so he decides to play babysitter with Essex as his reluctant sidekick. But nothing’s ever that simple. While searching for the baby’s mom, they stumble upon her… just in time to watch her turn her husband into a frog.
👶🏻 Our unlikely duo does their best to keep the magical baby alive and well-fed (easier said than done when magic diapers are involved). Meanwhile, they’re dodging witches, frogs, and the Chief Magic Detector. Misadventures ensue, with enough magical mishaps to make even Harry Potter break a sweat. 🪄✨
🧙🏼♀️ This is a story also tackles difficult topics of life and death, but also, the magic of the world. It’s technically for kids and middle graders, but let’s be honest, everyone will get a kick out of this heartwarming tale. My daughter and I loved reading it together and we especially enjoyed the beautiful illustrations!
🐸 Full of magic, friendship, love, and the occasional frog-spouse, it’s the perfect read for cozying up by the fire with some hot cocoa. Just watch out for witches in your local park—you never know what they’re planning!
🐻 Meet Olaf, a bear with a heart as big as his belly, and his best bud, Essex, a clever fox with a taste for adventure. One day, they stumble upon two witches, Helga & Hilda, in the park who are up to no good—like seriously no good—trying to kidnap a baby. Apparently, witches are terrible babysitters because they freak out the second they see Olaf and hightail it out of there, leaving the baby behind. But here’s the twist—this isn’t just any baby, it’s the son of the Chief Magic Detector. (Yes, that’s a real job title in this world.)
🦊 Olaf, being the sweet, fuzzy softie he is, can’t just leave the baby. He’s got a tragic backstory, of course—lost his mom when he was just a cub—so he decides to play babysitter with Essex as his reluctant sidekick. But nothing’s ever that simple. While searching for the baby’s mom, they stumble upon her… just in time to watch her turn her husband into a frog.
👶🏻 Our unlikely duo does their best to keep the magical baby alive and well-fed (easier said than done when magic diapers are involved). Meanwhile, they’re dodging witches, frogs, and the Chief Magic Detector. Misadventures ensue, with enough magical mishaps to make even Harry Potter break a sweat. 🪄✨
🧙🏼♀️ This is a story also tackles difficult topics of life and death, but also, the magic of the world. It’s technically for kids and middle graders, but let’s be honest, everyone will get a kick out of this heartwarming tale. My daughter and I loved reading it together and we especially enjoyed the beautiful illustrations!
🐸 Full of magic, friendship, love, and the occasional frog-spouse, it’s the perfect read for cozying up by the fire with some hot cocoa. Just watch out for witches in your local park—you never know what they’re planning!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2024
Olaf the bear is going about his usual business when he happens upon a mean lady in the woods with a baby. When the woman flees, Olaf takes the infant home to his friend Essex, and the two care for it, though they argue often about whether it wouldn't be better to take the child home to its mother. Meanwhile, the anti-witch government faction is hot on the trail of the mean lady, but she has a devious plan for revenge--if only she can get the whiny baby back.
The concept of a bear and a fox taking care of a baby and continually rescuing her from certain danger and trying to decide what's best for her, well, that's quite charming. I love Olaf and Essex, and it was delightful meeting the other animals of Central Park. There's also something intriguing about the anti-witch government going head to head with vengeful witches, particularly when we have to determine whether the witches are really evil after all. There was something about the two plot lines that didn't really mesh, though. Added to that is the complicated ponderings of what death is and how to deal with grief and loss. I will always argue in favor of dealing with difficult topics, even in a children's book. But I want to see these things dealt with well, and between the chaos of constant escapes, uncertain loyalties, learning how to do magic, trying to find missing people from previous lives, people turning into frogs and learning about the circle of life, and the weird fact that there's a character called "the baby" and also a cat named Baby, it just got to be too much. P.S. a dog dies.
Overall, I'd recommend this book. It's a bit unusual, but it has a lot of heart, and I love the way it balances good and evil. The illustrations are also a great touch. The complex plot is a lot to think about though.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
The concept of a bear and a fox taking care of a baby and continually rescuing her from certain danger and trying to decide what's best for her, well, that's quite charming. I love Olaf and Essex, and it was delightful meeting the other animals of Central Park. There's also something intriguing about the anti-witch government going head to head with vengeful witches, particularly when we have to determine whether the witches are really evil after all. There was something about the two plot lines that didn't really mesh, though. Added to that is the complicated ponderings of what death is and how to deal with grief and loss. I will always argue in favor of dealing with difficult topics, even in a children's book. But I want to see these things dealt with well, and between the chaos of constant escapes, uncertain loyalties, learning how to do magic, trying to find missing people from previous lives, people turning into frogs and learning about the circle of life, and the weird fact that there's a character called "the baby" and also a cat named Baby, it just got to be too much. P.S. a dog dies.
Overall, I'd recommend this book. It's a bit unusual, but it has a lot of heart, and I love the way it balances good and evil. The illustrations are also a great touch. The complex plot is a lot to think about though.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
December 12, 2024
Olaf and Essex is a unique novel that transcends genres and appeals to readers of all ages, touching anyone with a heart. It draws you in with a blend of comedy and supernatural elements, while keeping you engaged through the tender and loving relationships between its characters.
At the center of the story is Olaf, a kindhearted yet somewhat misguided bear, and his best friend, Essex, a wise and protective fox. Alongside their cantankerous cat and the magical inhabitants of New York City—witches, trees, puddles—you name it—they embark on a mission to rescue a baby they've named Football (aka Madison) from the clutches of a bumbling, but wicked witch named Mabel.
Their adventure involves a series of misadventures, including kidnapping and rescuing Football multiple times. As the story progresses, Olaf, Essex, and Football form a unique "family" of sorts. We discover that each animal in the tale has faced tragic events in their past, resulting in profound loss.
Author Patti Calkosz expertly immerses us in the magical world of NYC, particularly with her vivid descriptions of Central Park and its hidden corners. More importantly, she highlights the symbiotic relationships between all living beings and their mutual reliance for protection, love, and light.
While there are moments of animal peril that may be hard to digest, the overarching themes of love and friendship ultimately prevail, making this a heartwarming read. The beautiful portrayal of the afterlife is one I will not soon forget. Additionally, the illustrations are magnificent! I highly recommend this imaginative novel for readers aged 8 and up, as it contains both humorous and poignant moments that resonate with adults as well.
At the center of the story is Olaf, a kindhearted yet somewhat misguided bear, and his best friend, Essex, a wise and protective fox. Alongside their cantankerous cat and the magical inhabitants of New York City—witches, trees, puddles—you name it—they embark on a mission to rescue a baby they've named Football (aka Madison) from the clutches of a bumbling, but wicked witch named Mabel.
Their adventure involves a series of misadventures, including kidnapping and rescuing Football multiple times. As the story progresses, Olaf, Essex, and Football form a unique "family" of sorts. We discover that each animal in the tale has faced tragic events in their past, resulting in profound loss.
Author Patti Calkosz expertly immerses us in the magical world of NYC, particularly with her vivid descriptions of Central Park and its hidden corners. More importantly, she highlights the symbiotic relationships between all living beings and their mutual reliance for protection, love, and light.
While there are moments of animal peril that may be hard to digest, the overarching themes of love and friendship ultimately prevail, making this a heartwarming read. The beautiful portrayal of the afterlife is one I will not soon forget. Additionally, the illustrations are magnificent! I highly recommend this imaginative novel for readers aged 8 and up, as it contains both humorous and poignant moments that resonate with adults as well.
October 12, 2024
I loved this heartfelt, touching story that anyone at any age will enjoy. Set in Central Park in New York City, this story is about a bear named Olaf and a fox named Essex who both can talk. Olaf witnesses a witch kidnapping a human baby. The witch, Mable and her husband Harvey (she later turns him into a frog) are protesting the rights for all witches. The baby girl belongs to the NYPD's Chief Magic Detector and his wife, who is also the witch's sister. Kind, gentle Olaf rescues the baby girl who he names Football and takes into hiding in a cave in Central Park. Olaf lovingly takes care of the baby along with his best friend Essex. They get a lot of help from their animal friends and the talking trees who give advice. This is a heartwarming story of love, friendship and courage. The witch Mable is on a mission to get the baby back so she can use her as a bargaining tool to get all the witches in jail and prison released. Intelligent and loving Essex convinces Olaf to return the baby Football to her real mother. Beautifully written story of best friends and their determination to save Football from the witch. They ask for help from good witch Helga and her mean sister Hilda and along with the bored teenage girl cashier from the local food palace, (who turns out to be the baby girl's sister and daughters to the Chief Magic Detector), they continuously fight the witch Mable to keep her from getting baby Football. The story is a fascinating read, warm and tear jerking. I highly recommend it. Excellent job by Patti Calkosz . I am anxious to read the sequel.
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October 17, 2024
In an alternate New York City, a bear named Olaf and his best friend Essex, a fox, find themselves in a predicament after two witches leave behind a baby in Central Park. The witches had kidnapped the baby to force the child's father, the NYPD's Chief Magic Detector, to stop harassing the magical community.
Olaf, who lost his mother when he was young, feels a strong urge to protect the baby. When they attempt to return the baby to the presumed parents, Olaf and Essex witness the female witch turning her husband into a frog in anger.
Now, Olaf and Essex must keep the baby safe, locate the natural mother, prevent the baby from being discovered by her Magic Detector father, and avoid being turned into frogs themselves.
Author Patti Calkosz skillfully uses atmosphere, humor, and well-developed characters to deliver an exciting and delightful adventure. The unique setting of an alternate New York City, where witches coexist with humans under suspicion, creates an intriguing backdrop to captivate young readers.
The transformation of Mabel Blackthornudder from a witch with noble intentions to a power-hungry antagonist adds depth to the story in a classic fairytale fashion, providing young readers with rich character exploration. The bond between Olaf and Essex, as they navigate the challenges of caring for an infant, brings heartwarming and humorous moments to the narrative.
This dynamic is beautifully written with heartfelt dialogue, infusing the story with charm and a sense of safety despite the dangerous twists. "Olaf and Essex" is a captivating read filled with themes of bravery and friendship, and I highly recommend it for young fantasy fans everywhere to enjoy.
Olaf, who lost his mother when he was young, feels a strong urge to protect the baby. When they attempt to return the baby to the presumed parents, Olaf and Essex witness the female witch turning her husband into a frog in anger.
Now, Olaf and Essex must keep the baby safe, locate the natural mother, prevent the baby from being discovered by her Magic Detector father, and avoid being turned into frogs themselves.
Author Patti Calkosz skillfully uses atmosphere, humor, and well-developed characters to deliver an exciting and delightful adventure. The unique setting of an alternate New York City, where witches coexist with humans under suspicion, creates an intriguing backdrop to captivate young readers.
The transformation of Mabel Blackthornudder from a witch with noble intentions to a power-hungry antagonist adds depth to the story in a classic fairytale fashion, providing young readers with rich character exploration. The bond between Olaf and Essex, as they navigate the challenges of caring for an infant, brings heartwarming and humorous moments to the narrative.
This dynamic is beautifully written with heartfelt dialogue, infusing the story with charm and a sense of safety despite the dangerous twists. "Olaf and Essex" is a captivating read filled with themes of bravery and friendship, and I highly recommend it for young fantasy fans everywhere to enjoy.
December 6, 2024
**e-ARC received in exchange for an honest review.**
While Olaf and Essex offers moments of humor and intrigue, its intended audience is unclear. Marketed for ages 8 to 12, the book contains themes and vocabulary that feel out of sync with that age range. For example, the book oscillates between several POVs. Some of which delve into mature territory, such as Chief Detector Thomas grappling with feelings of resentment toward his new child—an authentic adult experience, but one that is not age appropriate for younger readers.
The vocabulary is similarly inconsistent. Most words are appropriate for middle-grade readers, but sporadic choices like "visage" lack sufficient context, making them difficult for younger audiences to grasp. This unevenness could make the book frustrating for independent readers but potentially engaging as a read-aloud. Parents and or educators would likely need to define some of the words as they read to help the young audience make sense of the text.
The author’s occasional quippy one-liners add charm, but references like a nod to Macbeth will likely fly over the heads of the target age group. At times, the narrative even risks alienating readers—for instance, a scene where a character is insulted for having a "grade 3 vocabulary" might feel demeaning a child reading the book.
Overall, Olaf and Essex has clever moments and a creative premise but struggles to strike a balance between mature themes and a younger audience's accessibility. It may appeal to advanced readers or as a family read-aloud with adult guidance.
While Olaf and Essex offers moments of humor and intrigue, its intended audience is unclear. Marketed for ages 8 to 12, the book contains themes and vocabulary that feel out of sync with that age range. For example, the book oscillates between several POVs. Some of which delve into mature territory, such as Chief Detector Thomas grappling with feelings of resentment toward his new child—an authentic adult experience, but one that is not age appropriate for younger readers.
The vocabulary is similarly inconsistent. Most words are appropriate for middle-grade readers, but sporadic choices like "visage" lack sufficient context, making them difficult for younger audiences to grasp. This unevenness could make the book frustrating for independent readers but potentially engaging as a read-aloud. Parents and or educators would likely need to define some of the words as they read to help the young audience make sense of the text.
The author’s occasional quippy one-liners add charm, but references like a nod to Macbeth will likely fly over the heads of the target age group. At times, the narrative even risks alienating readers—for instance, a scene where a character is insulted for having a "grade 3 vocabulary" might feel demeaning a child reading the book.
Overall, Olaf and Essex has clever moments and a creative premise but struggles to strike a balance between mature themes and a younger audience's accessibility. It may appeal to advanced readers or as a family read-aloud with adult guidance.
November 1, 2024
I was three chapters into this book and loving it when I realised I knew someone who would love it more than me, so I started reading it to my daughter. She loved every page, always wanting me to read quicker so she could get to the next picture to inspire her imagination.
My Initial thought is to liken this book to a good Disney movie. There is so much to keep children entertained, but underneath, there are parts that only older children and adults will get. Stories are a powerful medium for teaching children about the world, and Patti Calkosz does this significantly in her debut novel.
As we follow Olaf the bear, Essex the fox and a slightly grumpy cat called Baby, through their adventure, we learn about nature, friendship and acceptance, all with a sprinkling of magic.
If I had to find one criticism of the book, which is very personal, it is that some of the chapters are too long to read in one night. I like my chapters to be uniformly long when reading to my daughter.
Olaf and Essex is a wonderful way to spend your evenings and a perfect introduction to characters I hope we have not seen the end of.
Whether you have children or enjoy a middle-grade read, I urge you to pick this up. You will not be disappointed.
Now that we have finished, we must find our next bedtime story to read. However, I am pretty sure she will make me re-read this again very soon.
For more reviews check out my newsletter - https://thebookchronicle.substack.com
My Initial thought is to liken this book to a good Disney movie. There is so much to keep children entertained, but underneath, there are parts that only older children and adults will get. Stories are a powerful medium for teaching children about the world, and Patti Calkosz does this significantly in her debut novel.
As we follow Olaf the bear, Essex the fox and a slightly grumpy cat called Baby, through their adventure, we learn about nature, friendship and acceptance, all with a sprinkling of magic.
If I had to find one criticism of the book, which is very personal, it is that some of the chapters are too long to read in one night. I like my chapters to be uniformly long when reading to my daughter.
Olaf and Essex is a wonderful way to spend your evenings and a perfect introduction to characters I hope we have not seen the end of.
Whether you have children or enjoy a middle-grade read, I urge you to pick this up. You will not be disappointed.
Now that we have finished, we must find our next bedtime story to read. However, I am pretty sure she will make me re-read this again very soon.
For more reviews check out my newsletter - https://thebookchronicle.substack.com
November 17, 2024
I was torn between giving a 3 or a 4 rating, but bumped it up to 4 because of the great artwork and the fact it's a debut novel.
Pros:
1) Unique concepts/ storytelling
2) Humorous
3) Cute elements to the story
4) Great art!
5) I do want to know what happens next.
Cons:
1) There was a few more plot points than I thought necessary in the second half of the book.
2) I understand the book is for "middle grade" students and that many elements were humorous or intended to be tongue in cheek. However, there were times where I was confused on who the intended audience was for the book (e.g. Shakespeare, Polyanna, and other older references; also darker themes where death, harm, or lack of care is mentioned or used as a joke). Now, to be clear it was clear to me these topics/statements were a joke, but I would make sure a young middle reader fully understands irony, sarcasm, etc. prior to reading this book because the book is not like an old Full House, Saved by the Bell, etc. episode where a statement about not feeding a cat is followed by an object lesson by saying something like "Of course, we all know any good person would feed their cat".
So all in all I do have reservations on the audience and think the plot could be tightened a bit, but that's just my subjective opinion. Overall, the author and series show a lot of promise and I personally enjoyed it.
**I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest review**
Pros:
1) Unique concepts/ storytelling
2) Humorous
3) Cute elements to the story
4) Great art!
5) I do want to know what happens next.
Cons:
1) There was a few more plot points than I thought necessary in the second half of the book.
2) I understand the book is for "middle grade" students and that many elements were humorous or intended to be tongue in cheek. However, there were times where I was confused on who the intended audience was for the book (e.g. Shakespeare, Polyanna, and other older references; also darker themes where death, harm, or lack of care is mentioned or used as a joke). Now, to be clear it was clear to me these topics/statements were a joke, but I would make sure a young middle reader fully understands irony, sarcasm, etc. prior to reading this book because the book is not like an old Full House, Saved by the Bell, etc. episode where a statement about not feeding a cat is followed by an object lesson by saying something like "Of course, we all know any good person would feed their cat".
So all in all I do have reservations on the audience and think the plot could be tightened a bit, but that's just my subjective opinion. Overall, the author and series show a lot of promise and I personally enjoyed it.
**I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest review**
October 5, 2024
When an unlikely pair consisting of a black bear and a fox try to raise a magic human baby as one of their own it causes havoc in the city.
Olaf (bear) was walking in the park observing two witches and their baby when he scared the couple and they take off leaving their baby behind. Olaf decides to bring the baby back to his den where his friends, a fox named Essex and a white cat named Baby stay with him. Together Olaf and Essex recruit the help of two sister witches, Hilda and Helga, in trying to figure out who this magical baby belongs to. Olaf and Essex attempt to raise the baby as their own until they can get the baby back to her parents.
This book I would say is a middle grade book I think it would be appropriate for kids about 7-9 years old to read, it’s just yo to the parents discretion because there is a bit of mature language in this book; the use of the word idiot a few times. I am really excited for my child to be old enough to read this book it gives off the vibes of a Roald Dahl vibe, think the Witches meets BFG.
This was such a cute story! I laughed a lot but what I wasn’t expecting was to full body sob (not going to give a spoiler as to why) I haven’t cried this hard over a book since reading Kingdom of Ash by SJM!
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of her book I really did enjoy it and cannot wait for the sequel!
Olaf (bear) was walking in the park observing two witches and their baby when he scared the couple and they take off leaving their baby behind. Olaf decides to bring the baby back to his den where his friends, a fox named Essex and a white cat named Baby stay with him. Together Olaf and Essex recruit the help of two sister witches, Hilda and Helga, in trying to figure out who this magical baby belongs to. Olaf and Essex attempt to raise the baby as their own until they can get the baby back to her parents.
This book I would say is a middle grade book I think it would be appropriate for kids about 7-9 years old to read, it’s just yo to the parents discretion because there is a bit of mature language in this book; the use of the word idiot a few times. I am really excited for my child to be old enough to read this book it gives off the vibes of a Roald Dahl vibe, think the Witches meets BFG.
This was such a cute story! I laughed a lot but what I wasn’t expecting was to full body sob (not going to give a spoiler as to why) I haven’t cried this hard over a book since reading Kingdom of Ash by SJM!
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of her book I really did enjoy it and cannot wait for the sequel!
October 22, 2024
A sweet and endearing middle-grade story about love and longing, as seen from the POV of a sensitive bear, a motherly fox, and a competent but grumpy cat.
Set in an imagined post-crisis New York City, the story teems with witches, and magic-competents - some good, and some as evil and nasty as one can expect.
When Olaf (the bear), released into the streets and separated from his much-loved zoo keeper guardian, Wendy, is befriended by Essex, a tv-watching fox who desperately wants to learn how to read, the two chums do their best to survive, staying away from the increasingly-hard-to-understand humans, and keeping an eye out for the ever-present witches.
As Olaf and Essex, together with their no-nonsense friend Baby, a white cat, come upon a (human) baby in distress, and Mabel Blackthornudder, the self-proclaimed most powerful witch in New York, their lives will be changed forever.
A tale that will tweak the full gamut of emotions, this story is charmingly augmented with line drawings, and creatively plotted — a treat for lovers of fairy tales and fables, underlined with magic and a heart-warming message.
A great big thank you to #Netgalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
Set in an imagined post-crisis New York City, the story teems with witches, and magic-competents - some good, and some as evil and nasty as one can expect.
When Olaf (the bear), released into the streets and separated from his much-loved zoo keeper guardian, Wendy, is befriended by Essex, a tv-watching fox who desperately wants to learn how to read, the two chums do their best to survive, staying away from the increasingly-hard-to-understand humans, and keeping an eye out for the ever-present witches.
As Olaf and Essex, together with their no-nonsense friend Baby, a white cat, come upon a (human) baby in distress, and Mabel Blackthornudder, the self-proclaimed most powerful witch in New York, their lives will be changed forever.
A tale that will tweak the full gamut of emotions, this story is charmingly augmented with line drawings, and creatively plotted — a treat for lovers of fairy tales and fables, underlined with magic and a heart-warming message.
A great big thank you to #Netgalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
November 20, 2024
Olaf and Essex by Patti Calkosz: A Heartwarming Tale
Review:
"Olaf and Essex" by Patti Calkosz is a captivating and poignant novel that explores the transformative power of friendship and love. This beautifully crafted story follows the journey of Olaf, a charming and eccentric artist, and Essex, a young woman navigating life's challenges.
Plot:
The narrative unfolds in 1980s New York City, where Olaf and Essex's lives intersect. As they form an unlikely bond, they confront their pasts, embrace their quirks, and discover the beauty of human connection.
Writing Style:
Calkosz's prose is characterized by:
1. Vibrant, descriptive language
2. Well-developed, relatable characters
3. Emotional depth and sensitivity
4. Witty dialogue and humor
Themes:
1. The power of friendship and community
2. Embracing individuality and creativity
3. Overcoming trauma and finding healing
4. Love, loss, and self-discovery
Strengths:
1. Unique, memorable characters
2. Evocative portrayal of 1980s NYC
3. Poignant exploration of human connection
4. Uplifting, hopeful tone
Weaknesses:
1. Pacing issues in some sections
2. Supporting character development could be enhanced
Review:
"Olaf and Essex" by Patti Calkosz is a captivating and poignant novel that explores the transformative power of friendship and love. This beautifully crafted story follows the journey of Olaf, a charming and eccentric artist, and Essex, a young woman navigating life's challenges.
Plot:
The narrative unfolds in 1980s New York City, where Olaf and Essex's lives intersect. As they form an unlikely bond, they confront their pasts, embrace their quirks, and discover the beauty of human connection.
Writing Style:
Calkosz's prose is characterized by:
1. Vibrant, descriptive language
2. Well-developed, relatable characters
3. Emotional depth and sensitivity
4. Witty dialogue and humor
Themes:
1. The power of friendship and community
2. Embracing individuality and creativity
3. Overcoming trauma and finding healing
4. Love, loss, and self-discovery
Strengths:
1. Unique, memorable characters
2. Evocative portrayal of 1980s NYC
3. Poignant exploration of human connection
4. Uplifting, hopeful tone
Weaknesses:
1. Pacing issues in some sections
2. Supporting character development could be enhanced
April 12, 2025
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Olaf and Essex is an appealing and well written middle grade adventure fantasy by Patti Calkosz. Released 13th Oct 2024, it's 369 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats.
This is such a fun and well written fantasy set in an alternate NYC and featuring an appealing cast of whimsical characters including anthropomorphic animals (Olaf and Essex are intelligent animals, a bear and fox respectively). Olaf accidentally foils a kidnapping gone wrong and acquires a magically competent baby whom he naturally wishes to protect and return to its parents. Hijinks ensue.
The book is enhanced throughout by incidental illustrations beautifully rendered by illustrator Xiao. Although quite simple stylistically, they're full of small details and movement.
Apparently the first in a series (The Magic Competents), there's not yet publishing info available about book two.
Four stars. Well worth a look for all ages, though it's ostensibly aimed at middle grades and up.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Olaf and Essex is an appealing and well written middle grade adventure fantasy by Patti Calkosz. Released 13th Oct 2024, it's 369 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats.
This is such a fun and well written fantasy set in an alternate NYC and featuring an appealing cast of whimsical characters including anthropomorphic animals (Olaf and Essex are intelligent animals, a bear and fox respectively). Olaf accidentally foils a kidnapping gone wrong and acquires a magically competent baby whom he naturally wishes to protect and return to its parents. Hijinks ensue.
The book is enhanced throughout by incidental illustrations beautifully rendered by illustrator Xiao. Although quite simple stylistically, they're full of small details and movement.
Apparently the first in a series (The Magic Competents), there's not yet publishing info available about book two.
Four stars. Well worth a look for all ages, though it's ostensibly aimed at middle grades and up.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
October 1, 2024
I went into this book without too many expectations and very little foreknowledge, only to be completely charmed and captured by the story and its characters. It's not too much to say that this is a modern classic in the making.
Olaf the bear and Essex the fox overcome the tragedy in their own lives to form a fast friendship, and subsequently (and unexpectedly!) find themselves rescuing a magical baby from a pair of miscreants. But figuring out what to do with the baby afterwards is an entirely different matter...
Featuring a pair of witch sisters, some evil humans who hate magic, a wizard who is turned into a frog, a wise trio of trees, a misanthropic cat and a whole host of other supporting characters with charm and/or ill-intent, this book really is a must-read. Barring one element near the end which I felt was unnecessary, I feel that any readers life will be enriched by this story, which gave me ALL the feels.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Olaf the bear and Essex the fox overcome the tragedy in their own lives to form a fast friendship, and subsequently (and unexpectedly!) find themselves rescuing a magical baby from a pair of miscreants. But figuring out what to do with the baby afterwards is an entirely different matter...
Featuring a pair of witch sisters, some evil humans who hate magic, a wizard who is turned into a frog, a wise trio of trees, a misanthropic cat and a whole host of other supporting characters with charm and/or ill-intent, this book really is a must-read. Barring one element near the end which I felt was unnecessary, I feel that any readers life will be enriched by this story, which gave me ALL the feels.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
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