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Into the Wild Magic
From New York Times best-selling author Michelle Knudsen comes a pitch-perfect fantasy about adolescent girlhood—navigating friendship and trust, owning your gifts, and becoming the hero of your own story.
Eleven-year-old Bevvy spends her time avoiding other kids, playing with her neighbor’s kittens, and escaping into her fantasy novels. When new girl Cat arrives at school, Bevvy thinks she may finally have found a friend, until Cat provokes Bevvy’s worst tormentor and leaves her alone to deal with the consequences. Later, on Bevvy’s doorstep, Cat’s apology is cut short when a car with dark windows rolls up. Bolting into a nearby wood with Bevvy in tow, Cat proceeds to open a hole, in the air, just in time. Bevvy knows magic when she sees it, the kind in books, but the world the girls escape to—teeming with unicorns, sorcerers, and dragons—is shockingly, exhilaratingly real. It’s a world at war. Those who wield wild magic, in tune with nature, are pitted against dark sorcerers. As Bevvy’s role in the struggle grows, and her confidence with it, can she trust Cat to support her? Can she trust herself not to run? An acclaimed author builds a breathtaking and emotionally resonant world where magic and monsters are real and friendship and risk go hand in hand.
Eleven-year-old Bevvy spends her time avoiding other kids, playing with her neighbor’s kittens, and escaping into her fantasy novels. When new girl Cat arrives at school, Bevvy thinks she may finally have found a friend, until Cat provokes Bevvy’s worst tormentor and leaves her alone to deal with the consequences. Later, on Bevvy’s doorstep, Cat’s apology is cut short when a car with dark windows rolls up. Bolting into a nearby wood with Bevvy in tow, Cat proceeds to open a hole, in the air, just in time. Bevvy knows magic when she sees it, the kind in books, but the world the girls escape to—teeming with unicorns, sorcerers, and dragons—is shockingly, exhilaratingly real. It’s a world at war. Those who wield wild magic, in tune with nature, are pitted against dark sorcerers. As Bevvy’s role in the struggle grows, and her confidence with it, can she trust Cat to support her? Can she trust herself not to run? An acclaimed author builds a breathtaking and emotionally resonant world where magic and monsters are real and friendship and risk go hand in hand.
368 pages, Hardcover
Published August 19, 2025
5 people are currently reading
3453 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Knudsen
68 books391 followersI'm the New York Times best-selling author of more than 50 books for young readers for all ages, including the award-winning picture book Library Lion, which was selected by Time magazine as one of the 100 Best Children's Books of All Time. My other books include the picture book Marilyn's Monster (NPR's Best Books of 2015) and the novels The Dragon of Trelian (VOYA Top Shelf Fiction for Middle School Readers) and Evil Librarian (YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults; Sid Fleischman Humor Award Winner). My newest book is LUIGI, THE SPIDER WHO WANTED TO BE A KITTEN (a new picture book with the wonderful Kevin Hawkes, published 3/5/2024). Next up will be INTO THE WILD MAGIC, a new middle grade fantasy novel coming August 2025.
I also work as a freelance editor and teach in Lesley University's MFA program in writing for young people.
I also work as a freelance editor and teach in Lesley University's MFA program in writing for young people.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
October 17, 2025
11-year-old Bevvy has two safe places at school - the library, and a shady tree in the schoolyard where she can go to read her favorite fantasy books at recess and hide from her bully, Damian. When she sees a new student, Cat, sitting in her spot, she thinks it’s an opportunity to finally make a friend. Cat is aloof, saying she moves around a lot and doesn’t want to get attached; just then, Damian swoops in and Cat disappears. After a teacher intervenes and Bevvy is able to go home, she is surprised to find Cat on her doorstep, waiting to apologize. A car pulls up and a lot of odd looking people with various animal body parts get out and start to chase them; they run through the forest and Cat grabs Bevvy’s hand and pulls her through a door she has created in the air.
This door leads them to Lorelkey, a magical world that Bevvy soon learns is not as serene as her favorite books would imply. Even the unicorns, beautiful from a distance, are ferocious and mean. Cat explains that Lorelkey is her mother’s home, and that she inherited her ability to create portals; her mother was a victim of a violent coup that took place in Lorelkey two years prior. Soon the girls meet up with a band of resistance fighters led by Calistine, a ‘steader’ who has a unique bond with the natural world, Fred, a shapeshifter whose alter ego is a fox, and Lira, who is able to tell whether people are telling the truth. These ‘guardians’ teach the girls the history of the war that is currently raging, involving evil sorcerers who are trying to drain the land and its citizens of wild magic by manipulating dragons and turning people to statues. The guardians believe that Cat’s portal opening talent will be very helpful in their fight, and while she struggles to hone her ability, Bevvy discovers she has some wild magic of her own when the trees around her respond to her inner voice when she asks for help. While still learning whether they can trust each other, or any of their new acquaintances, the girls are soon embroiled in a dangerous, magical adventure to help free Lorelkey and save themselves.
Into the Wild Magic is a fast-paced page turner that fantasy fans will love; it is equal parts classic fantasy, tween coming-of-age drama, and political allegory. The story is told from Bevvy’s perspective, and it is easy to empathize with her as she navigates the fantasy world and her newfound power while still contending with the social awkwardness and impulsive speaking that has caused her to be ostracized at school. She and Cat are thrust into this world together, barely knowing each other, and with neither very good at friendship or teamwork. That would be hard enough under normal circumstances, but building a relationship while dodging deadly dragon fire and angry sorcerers, negotiating alliances and discerning between good and evil forces, and trying to master magical abilities makes for an exciting, sometimes scary adventure. The cast of secondary characters adds a great deal of depth to the plot and to Bevvy’s own development; all of them play a role in her growth. Michelle Knudsen does a terrific job of imaginative worldbuilding; readers will have a clear picture of the settings within Lorelkey and its human and nonhuman inhabitants. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
This door leads them to Lorelkey, a magical world that Bevvy soon learns is not as serene as her favorite books would imply. Even the unicorns, beautiful from a distance, are ferocious and mean. Cat explains that Lorelkey is her mother’s home, and that she inherited her ability to create portals; her mother was a victim of a violent coup that took place in Lorelkey two years prior. Soon the girls meet up with a band of resistance fighters led by Calistine, a ‘steader’ who has a unique bond with the natural world, Fred, a shapeshifter whose alter ego is a fox, and Lira, who is able to tell whether people are telling the truth. These ‘guardians’ teach the girls the history of the war that is currently raging, involving evil sorcerers who are trying to drain the land and its citizens of wild magic by manipulating dragons and turning people to statues. The guardians believe that Cat’s portal opening talent will be very helpful in their fight, and while she struggles to hone her ability, Bevvy discovers she has some wild magic of her own when the trees around her respond to her inner voice when she asks for help. While still learning whether they can trust each other, or any of their new acquaintances, the girls are soon embroiled in a dangerous, magical adventure to help free Lorelkey and save themselves.
Into the Wild Magic is a fast-paced page turner that fantasy fans will love; it is equal parts classic fantasy, tween coming-of-age drama, and political allegory. The story is told from Bevvy’s perspective, and it is easy to empathize with her as she navigates the fantasy world and her newfound power while still contending with the social awkwardness and impulsive speaking that has caused her to be ostracized at school. She and Cat are thrust into this world together, barely knowing each other, and with neither very good at friendship or teamwork. That would be hard enough under normal circumstances, but building a relationship while dodging deadly dragon fire and angry sorcerers, negotiating alliances and discerning between good and evil forces, and trying to master magical abilities makes for an exciting, sometimes scary adventure. The cast of secondary characters adds a great deal of depth to the plot and to Bevvy’s own development; all of them play a role in her growth. Michelle Knudsen does a terrific job of imaginative worldbuilding; readers will have a clear picture of the settings within Lorelkey and its human and nonhuman inhabitants. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
September 30, 2025
What worked:
Lorelkey is an alternate world that bears similarities to the world readers live in. The differences aren’t a surprise, although they may make readers reconsider their favourite magical creatures. Bevvy loves unicorns, so she’s stunned when a group of them attack her and Cat. The blood-spattered muzzles and forelegs with eyes “full of malice” belie the beautiful image of unicorns in fantasy books. Bevvy has always loved dragons, but her first encounter with them in Lorelkey results in a run for her life. Giant, mothlike creatures are initially terrifying, but they become reliable forms of transportation.
Sorcerers are in a war with Lorelkey, as they seek to destroy any resistance, especially anyone with natural magic. They’ve developed a way to control the dragons, which has made them almost unstoppable. Calistine may be the last person wielding wild magic, so efforts to resist the sorcerers are becoming desperate. Cat can cast a few spells; she opened the portal into Lorelkey, but she doesn’t want to share her past with the others. However, her abilities might be invaluable toward stopping the sorcerers, which creates one of the plot’s conflicts. Plus, Calistine and her followers know there’s something unusual about Bevvy and Cat, so they’re reluctant to trust the two strangers. The distrust goes both ways, and it takes a while to overcome those feelings.
From the synopsis, readers will suspect Bevvy possesses wild magic, but she doesn’t understand what’s happening. She touches a tree in Lorelkey and senses it trying to help her escape a monster. She later asks them for protection, and they seem to respond. Bevvy’s not sure if it’s really happening, and Calistine initially says it’s impossible. The trees choose the people who receive their power, so why would they decide someone from another world is worthy? Perhaps it’s because Bevvy’s a kind, gentle soul who desperately wants friends. She cares about the well-being of the trees, and they sense her good intentions.
What didn’t work as well:
Some aspects of the plot are predictable. The fate of Cat’s mom is assumed, but readers will have a suspicion about her demise. Evil sorcerers are sent away, but readers will anticipate their return. Bevvy has wild magic, common sense, and a caring heart, but her influence on adults in Lorelkey is surprising.
The final verdict:
The plot is more dramatic and adventurous than readers might expect. Old prejudices are hard to overcome, but all of the tensions are mostly resolved in the end. I recommend you give this book a shot.
Lorelkey is an alternate world that bears similarities to the world readers live in. The differences aren’t a surprise, although they may make readers reconsider their favourite magical creatures. Bevvy loves unicorns, so she’s stunned when a group of them attack her and Cat. The blood-spattered muzzles and forelegs with eyes “full of malice” belie the beautiful image of unicorns in fantasy books. Bevvy has always loved dragons, but her first encounter with them in Lorelkey results in a run for her life. Giant, mothlike creatures are initially terrifying, but they become reliable forms of transportation.
Sorcerers are in a war with Lorelkey, as they seek to destroy any resistance, especially anyone with natural magic. They’ve developed a way to control the dragons, which has made them almost unstoppable. Calistine may be the last person wielding wild magic, so efforts to resist the sorcerers are becoming desperate. Cat can cast a few spells; she opened the portal into Lorelkey, but she doesn’t want to share her past with the others. However, her abilities might be invaluable toward stopping the sorcerers, which creates one of the plot’s conflicts. Plus, Calistine and her followers know there’s something unusual about Bevvy and Cat, so they’re reluctant to trust the two strangers. The distrust goes both ways, and it takes a while to overcome those feelings.
From the synopsis, readers will suspect Bevvy possesses wild magic, but she doesn’t understand what’s happening. She touches a tree in Lorelkey and senses it trying to help her escape a monster. She later asks them for protection, and they seem to respond. Bevvy’s not sure if it’s really happening, and Calistine initially says it’s impossible. The trees choose the people who receive their power, so why would they decide someone from another world is worthy? Perhaps it’s because Bevvy’s a kind, gentle soul who desperately wants friends. She cares about the well-being of the trees, and they sense her good intentions.
What didn’t work as well:
Some aspects of the plot are predictable. The fate of Cat’s mom is assumed, but readers will have a suspicion about her demise. Evil sorcerers are sent away, but readers will anticipate their return. Bevvy has wild magic, common sense, and a caring heart, but her influence on adults in Lorelkey is surprising.
The final verdict:
The plot is more dramatic and adventurous than readers might expect. Old prejudices are hard to overcome, but all of the tensions are mostly resolved in the end. I recommend you give this book a shot.
September 8, 2025
Into the Wild Magic
by Michelle Knudsen
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Huge thanks to Candlewick Press for the ARC! 🐉✨
Vibe Check: Middle grade portal fantasy done right 🌲🔮, shy kid finding her inner hero 🌟, new friendship that’s both messy and magical 🐈, unicorns and dragons (!!) 🦄🐲, and a world that’s equal parts dangerous and wondrous. Felt like being handed a classic fantasy paperback but with modern heart.
What I Liked:
• Bevvy as a main character—relatable, anxious, but quietly brave 💕
• Cat being chaotic energy and forcing Bevvy out of her comfort zone ⚡
• The magical world felt HUGE with its unicorns, sorcerers, shapeshifters, and yes…giant flying moths 👀🪰
• Strong friendship themes: betrayal, apology, trust, and teamwork 👭
• Adventure pacing with real stakes but still middle-grade accessible ⚔️📚
What Didn’t Work for Me:
• Some of the worldbuilding felt a little dense for the target age (might lose younger readers) 📖⏳
• Cat’s character could’ve used a touch more nuance—her chaos sometimes overshadowed her growth 🌪️
Tropes/Elements:
• Portal fantasy 🌌
• Shy bookworm heroine 📚
• Found courage 💪
• Messy new friendship 👯
• Magical war between light vs. dark 🌓
• Dragons, unicorns, and all the classic creatures 🐉🦄
Final Word: Into the Wild Magic is a heartfelt, adventurous middle grade fantasy about finding your voice, owning your power, and realizing bravery doesn’t mean going alone. Perfect for fans of Nevermoor or anyone who wished their backyard woods hid a magical portal. 🌲✨
by Michelle Knudsen
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Huge thanks to Candlewick Press for the ARC! 🐉✨
Vibe Check: Middle grade portal fantasy done right 🌲🔮, shy kid finding her inner hero 🌟, new friendship that’s both messy and magical 🐈, unicorns and dragons (!!) 🦄🐲, and a world that’s equal parts dangerous and wondrous. Felt like being handed a classic fantasy paperback but with modern heart.
What I Liked:
• Bevvy as a main character—relatable, anxious, but quietly brave 💕
• Cat being chaotic energy and forcing Bevvy out of her comfort zone ⚡
• The magical world felt HUGE with its unicorns, sorcerers, shapeshifters, and yes…giant flying moths 👀🪰
• Strong friendship themes: betrayal, apology, trust, and teamwork 👭
• Adventure pacing with real stakes but still middle-grade accessible ⚔️📚
What Didn’t Work for Me:
• Some of the worldbuilding felt a little dense for the target age (might lose younger readers) 📖⏳
• Cat’s character could’ve used a touch more nuance—her chaos sometimes overshadowed her growth 🌪️
Tropes/Elements:
• Portal fantasy 🌌
• Shy bookworm heroine 📚
• Found courage 💪
• Messy new friendship 👯
• Magical war between light vs. dark 🌓
• Dragons, unicorns, and all the classic creatures 🐉🦄
Final Word: Into the Wild Magic is a heartfelt, adventurous middle grade fantasy about finding your voice, owning your power, and realizing bravery doesn’t mean going alone. Perfect for fans of Nevermoor or anyone who wished their backyard woods hid a magical portal. 🌲✨
June 23, 2025
I mean, I really like this one. (I also wrote it, to be clear.) If you're into friendship adventure fantasy stories with magic and monsters and dragons and shapeshifters and kittens and trees and mystery and giant flying moths and a lot of other things, I hope you'll like it too!
Two of my favorite bits from trade reviews so far:
"The pulse-quickening twists and thrills will captivate readers... An empowering tale of self-discovery, friendship, and love of the natural world." —Kirkus Reviews
"In this spirited magical adventure, Knudsen puts a new spin on fantasy elements. ... Bevvy is a compassionate, compelling lead across a surprise-packed plot." —Publishers Weekly
Two of my favorite bits from trade reviews so far:
"The pulse-quickening twists and thrills will captivate readers... An empowering tale of self-discovery, friendship, and love of the natural world." —Kirkus Reviews
"In this spirited magical adventure, Knudsen puts a new spin on fantasy elements. ... Bevvy is a compassionate, compelling lead across a surprise-packed plot." —Publishers Weekly
October 10, 2025
I really enjoyed Into the Wild Magic because of the experience of the magical world and descriptions that captured the story very well, and I really loved the backgrounds of the characters, and how magical this story was.
April 20, 2025
E ARC Provided by Edelweiss Plus
September 8, 2025
lots of details; lots of world building; themes include trust-building and making new friends and alliances.
October 30, 2025
A fun magical story.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews