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The Enchanted Files #1
The Enchanted Files: Cursed
Previously published as Diary of a Mad Brownie. Introducing The Enchanted Files—a new magical, modern-day comedy series by the master of funny fantasy and bestselling author of My Teacher is an Bruce Coville!
In the first hilarious Enchanted Files, Angus is a brownie. No, not the kind you eat! He’s a tiny magical creature that loves to do chores. Angus has just “inherited” a new human girl, Alex. To say that Alex is messy would be an understatement. She’s a total hurricane-like disaster—and she likes it that way, thankyouverymuch! Living with each other isn’t easy but Angus and Alex soon learn there is a curse that binds them. What’s worse, it threatens Alex’s family! Working together, Angus and Alex will set out to break the curse . . . without killing each other first . . . hopefully.
This laugh-out-loud adventure, full of humor and heart, is ideal for fans of Escape From Mr. Lemoncello’s Library or Chris Grabenstein.
* "Smart, amusing, and a lot of fun" — Booklist (starred review)
"With magic, mischief, and mayhem to spare, this sweet story of an unlikely friendship ought to delight readers of any age." —Publishers Weekly
"A knee-slapper." — Kirkus Reviews
In the first hilarious Enchanted Files, Angus is a brownie. No, not the kind you eat! He’s a tiny magical creature that loves to do chores. Angus has just “inherited” a new human girl, Alex. To say that Alex is messy would be an understatement. She’s a total hurricane-like disaster—and she likes it that way, thankyouverymuch! Living with each other isn’t easy but Angus and Alex soon learn there is a curse that binds them. What’s worse, it threatens Alex’s family! Working together, Angus and Alex will set out to break the curse . . . without killing each other first . . . hopefully.
This laugh-out-loud adventure, full of humor and heart, is ideal for fans of Escape From Mr. Lemoncello’s Library or Chris Grabenstein.
* "Smart, amusing, and a lot of fun" — Booklist (starred review)
"With magic, mischief, and mayhem to spare, this sweet story of an unlikely friendship ought to delight readers of any age." —Publishers Weekly
"A knee-slapper." — Kirkus Reviews
272 pages, Paperback
First published February 10, 2015
45 people are currently reading
663 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
January 7, 2026
Angus the brownie has lived in the wild and magical lands of Scotland his entire life. But not anymore.
"...I don't want to go. America is too far off. Not only that, from what we've seen on your television, 'tis a wild and barbaric place."
Soon Angus must leave his Sarah, his friends and even his country and travel to America (of all places!) to be serve the youngest girl (of age)...
"I am long bound to the clan McGonagall. But - alas and woe! - my current McGonagall, Sarah, has grown old and ill."
Alex, the youngest McGonagall (of age) is the absolute worst person Angus can imagine - she is messy. Messy to the point of no return.
"I am about to embark on a great and fateful journey, and I am deep fretful."
He loves arguing, hanging out with his human and tidying with a passion that rivals Marie Kondo. There is no way he will let a little untidy room ruin his life.
His bravery aside, how can one, small (though strong for his size) brownie take on this level of mess?
"I am a brownie, fierce and proud, and should not be afraid."
But Angus will do as he must, for he is a proud brownie.
However, trouble is just around the corner. Alex does not know exactly why a brownie must serve her family and Angus must try to stop her from finding out - for if she does, all heck will break loose.
Absolutely adorable and hilarious throughout!
"...knowing that to break this oath is to risk fierce punishment.
For we are brownies, and subjects of the Queen of Shadows!"
Angus had just the right mixture of grumpy and lovable-ness that made his character truly charming. He was proud, stubborn and had an awful temper (in the funniest way possible).
Alex was smart, charming and refreshingly realistic. She had a wonderful head on her shoulders and she actually used her noggin throughout the book - such a clever girl!
The side characters were funny and interesting - especially Destiny (Alex's little sister) who had an imaginary goblin friend.
I loved the way the plot was crafted - such a sweet little adventure with plenty of twists and turns that even I could not guess.
I listened to the audiobook and did not see most of the wonderful illustrations, but from what I did see (I peeked at a library copy) - the illustrations were super cute!
All in all - highly recommended for the late-elementary and early middle-school age group!
Audiobook Comments
A truly well-read novel. The voice actors breathed so much life into their characters - they really committed!
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December 16, 2015
This book was a fun read, but it had too many flaws to recommend. Therefore, I will list the flaws first.
#1-I rate this as #1, because it is the most important. This is a children's book. The MC's age is 11. This means children 8 (and probably younger) will read this book. And yet: Before the first third of the book was over, it had used, "arse", "hell", the Lord's name in vain, discussed how Angus (the brownie), was looking at a selkie in her human form completely naked (even if he didn't find it interesting after 150 years, he still watched her), had the child discuss how she knew about sex because it was obviously impossible for her younger sister to "have just happened", and thinks her teacher's husband is a hottie (what 11 yo thinks a 30yo man is hot!?).
#2-Bad grammar. It's "if it were", not "if it was" (this was not in dialogue, and occurred several times), apparently "have mowed" is acceptable, so I'll let that go (must be a regional thing), and it's "none were", not "none was". These should have been corrected, but much like the inappropriate actions, were only found in the first third of the book.
#3-Repetition. The latter third of the book had its own set of problems. Several sentences were repeated, like in the same paragraph even. This happened several times.
#4-The book is written in a jumpy format. It goes: Angus's journal entry, letter to parents from teacher, child's journal entry, Angus's journal entry, letter to family from vet, letter to parents from teacher, child's journal entry, etc. While this is a fun and interesting format, it is confusing, especially at the beginning. A child would have a hard time following it I fear. It would have been better if the family information had been given at a later date, you know, like after the reader actually knows they exist, and maybe even the role they play in the story. It would have also been better to have bigger chunks instead of hopping around all the time. As it is now, why do I care how a vet feels about a cat from a family I know nothing about, not even their names? It's instinctual to skip those parts until they actually matter.
And now for the good parts.
#1-The characters were very well thought out and played. They each had their own personalities and problems, and it showed.
#2-I especially loved how we see Native American fantasy. That is so often skipped over in the fantasy section, and I really enjoyed it.
Final thought-I would not recommend this book to any child for the #1 reason of my flaw section. However, an adult will probably enjoy it a great deal.
#1-I rate this as #1, because it is the most important. This is a children's book. The MC's age is 11. This means children 8 (and probably younger) will read this book. And yet: Before the first third of the book was over, it had used, "arse", "hell", the Lord's name in vain, discussed how Angus (the brownie), was looking at a selkie in her human form completely naked (even if he didn't find it interesting after 150 years, he still watched her), had the child discuss how she knew about sex because it was obviously impossible for her younger sister to "have just happened", and thinks her teacher's husband is a hottie (what 11 yo thinks a 30yo man is hot!?).
#2-Bad grammar. It's "if it were", not "if it was" (this was not in dialogue, and occurred several times), apparently "have mowed" is acceptable, so I'll let that go (must be a regional thing), and it's "none were", not "none was". These should have been corrected, but much like the inappropriate actions, were only found in the first third of the book.
#3-Repetition. The latter third of the book had its own set of problems. Several sentences were repeated, like in the same paragraph even. This happened several times.
#4-The book is written in a jumpy format. It goes: Angus's journal entry, letter to parents from teacher, child's journal entry, Angus's journal entry, letter to family from vet, letter to parents from teacher, child's journal entry, etc. While this is a fun and interesting format, it is confusing, especially at the beginning. A child would have a hard time following it I fear. It would have been better if the family information had been given at a later date, you know, like after the reader actually knows they exist, and maybe even the role they play in the story. It would have also been better to have bigger chunks instead of hopping around all the time. As it is now, why do I care how a vet feels about a cat from a family I know nothing about, not even their names? It's instinctual to skip those parts until they actually matter.
And now for the good parts.
#1-The characters were very well thought out and played. They each had their own personalities and problems, and it showed.
#2-I especially loved how we see Native American fantasy. That is so often skipped over in the fantasy section, and I really enjoyed it.
Final thought-I would not recommend this book to any child for the #1 reason of my flaw section. However, an adult will probably enjoy it a great deal.
May 11, 2016
Interesting, cute, and utterly charming from beginning to end :). Fell in love with the little guy from the beginning.
"Angus is a brownie, a magical creature from the Enchanted Realm that secretly loves to do chores for humans (from the back of the book). Who wouldn't love someone to help them with the cleaning right? ;-) Not Alex at first, she loves her organized chaos as it is.
Alex took awhile to grow on me but I loved watching the friendship grow between her and Angus, and between Angus and Bubbles (his reaction upon meeting this one is hilarious). Had a smile on my face a lot with this one :).
The curse wasn't what I was thought it was, some of the results were funny but it felt kind of tame (to me anyway).
Parts of the story felt rushed after a certain character came in but I still enjoyed the story, reading as fast as I could to see what would happen.
The artwork was adorable, my favorite was one of Angus (see status update) and another one near the end of the book.
Would recommend, a good books for kids and adults methinks... happy reading!
3.5 stars :)
"Angus is a brownie, a magical creature from the Enchanted Realm that secretly loves to do chores for humans (from the back of the book). Who wouldn't love someone to help them with the cleaning right? ;-) Not Alex at first, she loves her organized chaos as it is.
Alex took awhile to grow on me but I loved watching the friendship grow between her and Angus, and between Angus and Bubbles (his reaction upon meeting this one is hilarious). Had a smile on my face a lot with this one :).
The curse wasn't what I was thought it was, some of the results were funny but it felt kind of tame (to me anyway).
Parts of the story felt rushed after a certain character came in but I still enjoyed the story, reading as fast as I could to see what would happen.
The artwork was adorable, my favorite was one of Angus (see status update) and another one near the end of the book.
Would recommend, a good books for kids and adults methinks... happy reading!
3.5 stars :)
May 1, 2020
I'm a sucker for such epistolary books and this one was charming and very entertaining. Angus and his awful temper were hilarious!
O.W.L.s 2020: Astronomy: Night classes - Read majority of this book when it’s dark outside.
O.W.L.s 2020: Astronomy: Night classes - Read majority of this book when it’s dark outside.
April 18, 2018
A cute, light hearted fluffy read. I really enjoyed Angus and his little temper. I'll definitely be continuing with this series.
January 14, 2019
Angus is a Brownie who has been cursed to live with a specific human family for over one hundred years until he meets his new girl Alex. They take a while to get to a point of liking each other and have many adventures trying to figure out how to reverse their common curse. Along with the human family that Angus is now living with, there is a cat called Bubbles, they start out on the worst of footings when they meet but eventually become friends. One of my favorite quotes is from Angus when he talks about Bubbles, "I have to say, a cat's laugh is an odd sound." Well worth the read!
February 25, 2024
Hmm. I know I would have liked this a lot when I was a girl. For one weird reason - I would've appreciated learning that one needs to clean behind the refrigerator. And for all the expected reasons, such as the humor and the heart.
Now, I dunno, but I keep finding myself putting it down and doing something else. Like transcribing the quotations I already have bookdarted. (But hey, the fact that I am using bookdarts is a good sign. I will keep reading.)
I love the way Alex's teacher distinguishes between diary and journal (and not that Angus keeps a diary). "A diary is what you do, a journal is about what you think! About what you want to work on in your life. About figuring out who you are."
And I appreciate the reminder that pet cats should not be allowed outside. " I shudder to think how many poor little birds have uttered their last note... as a result of a fur-faced, carrot-colored demon being free to use this devil's doorway [cat flap] as it pleases."
And what about the distinction between terrifying and horrifying. "In the first, I was in fear of life and limb. In the second, though I was in no immediate danger, a surge of cold dread enveloped my heart."
And the little 'lessons' about poetry are fun.
---
Ok. done. Well, as a jaded adult, I just don't quite get it. The solution seemed a little too easy, maybe? We didn't get to know the other characters enough? The epistolary style, which meant there was more telling and less showing? I'm not sure exactly what more I wanted, I admit. But, it gets the third star because I did like it enough to want to continue the trilogy.
Also, it's interesting that the Enchanted people know that Shakespeare was at least half Elven.
---
Ok, now that I've read all three, I must say that I do recommend these first two. Because the third is just wonderful.
Now, I dunno, but I keep finding myself putting it down and doing something else. Like transcribing the quotations I already have bookdarted. (But hey, the fact that I am using bookdarts is a good sign. I will keep reading.)
I love the way Alex's teacher distinguishes between diary and journal (and not that Angus keeps a diary). "A diary is what you do, a journal is about what you think! About what you want to work on in your life. About figuring out who you are."
And I appreciate the reminder that pet cats should not be allowed outside. " I shudder to think how many poor little birds have uttered their last note... as a result of a fur-faced, carrot-colored demon being free to use this devil's doorway [cat flap] as it pleases."
And what about the distinction between terrifying and horrifying. "In the first, I was in fear of life and limb. In the second, though I was in no immediate danger, a surge of cold dread enveloped my heart."
And the little 'lessons' about poetry are fun.
---
Ok. done. Well, as a jaded adult, I just don't quite get it. The solution seemed a little too easy, maybe? We didn't get to know the other characters enough? The epistolary style, which meant there was more telling and less showing? I'm not sure exactly what more I wanted, I admit. But, it gets the third star because I did like it enough to want to continue the trilogy.
Also, it's interesting that the Enchanted people know that Shakespeare was at least half Elven.
---
Ok, now that I've read all three, I must say that I do recommend these first two. Because the third is just wonderful.
February 4, 2019
Full disclosure: I expected this to be cringey.
I was wrong. Actually, it is VERY cute and good. This book is what The Boggart by Susan Cooper would have been, if it had actually been good instead of dull and weird. Thoroughly enjoyable.
I was wrong. Actually, it is VERY cute and good. This book is what The Boggart by Susan Cooper would have been, if it had actually been good instead of dull and weird. Thoroughly enjoyable.
April 19, 2020
What a cute book!!!! If you choose to read it, read the hardcopy; the illustrations are fantastic!!!
April 7, 2025
This book was hilarious! The narrator made it even funnier! Highly recommend the audiobook! - C 10 yo
This audiobook was the funniest audiobook I have listened to! - B 8 yo
This audiobook was the funniest audiobook I have listened to! - B 8 yo
May 30, 2017
2018 Sequoyah Children's Masterlist.
Very cute story!
Very cute story!
August 4, 2015
This is a review for an Advanced Reader Copy
Dear Diary of a Mad Brownie,
I'm always open to Bruce Coville and Middle Grade novels. So when a friend handed you to me, I was all for it! Plus, you were a quick read; perfect for a breather between some of my longer novels. You were a treat read.
You're narrated through the journal of Angus, a brownie that's been cursed to serve the same family forever - or until the curse is broken. Angus doesn't mind it so much, until the current woman he lives with dies and he's forced to travel all the way to America to serve the next girl in line. Alex could use a brownie. She's been deemed the world's messiest girl by both her family and her teacher. It's a job that only a brownie as courageous and hardworking as Angus could accomplish. But there's one problem: Alex doesn't want a brownie. And unfortunately for Alex, she has no choice, for the curse won't allow Angus to leave. To make matters worse, the curse also has a bad side effect for the male members of Alex's family. So unless Alex wants to end up homeless, she and Angus must set out to break the curse once and for all.
Angus is a thoroughly amusing, fun narrator; I just loved him. And Alex is full of spunk and intelligence. Combined with Angus's short temper and penchant for mischief, the two make for quite the dynamic duo. I am a sucker for the journal-narration style, and this narration was also interspersed with letters, relevant newspaper clippings, some journal entries from Alex, and various notes exchanged between other characters. I really don't know what it is about this narration style, but I love it.
The plot itself was really fun, too. You could be accused of being preachy about being tidy, but it was done in such a humorous way and the plot of the curse became so prevalent that I really didn't care. You were just a fast, fun, humorous read that I really, really, really enjoyed.
Feeling amused,
~ Mara A. ~
Dear Diary of a Mad Brownie,
I'm always open to Bruce Coville and Middle Grade novels. So when a friend handed you to me, I was all for it! Plus, you were a quick read; perfect for a breather between some of my longer novels. You were a treat read.
You're narrated through the journal of Angus, a brownie that's been cursed to serve the same family forever - or until the curse is broken. Angus doesn't mind it so much, until the current woman he lives with dies and he's forced to travel all the way to America to serve the next girl in line. Alex could use a brownie. She's been deemed the world's messiest girl by both her family and her teacher. It's a job that only a brownie as courageous and hardworking as Angus could accomplish. But there's one problem: Alex doesn't want a brownie. And unfortunately for Alex, she has no choice, for the curse won't allow Angus to leave. To make matters worse, the curse also has a bad side effect for the male members of Alex's family. So unless Alex wants to end up homeless, she and Angus must set out to break the curse once and for all.
Angus is a thoroughly amusing, fun narrator; I just loved him. And Alex is full of spunk and intelligence. Combined with Angus's short temper and penchant for mischief, the two make for quite the dynamic duo. I am a sucker for the journal-narration style, and this narration was also interspersed with letters, relevant newspaper clippings, some journal entries from Alex, and various notes exchanged between other characters. I really don't know what it is about this narration style, but I love it.
The plot itself was really fun, too. You could be accused of being preachy about being tidy, but it was done in such a humorous way and the plot of the curse became so prevalent that I really didn't care. You were just a fast, fun, humorous read that I really, really, really enjoyed.
Feeling amused,
~ Mara A. ~
February 25, 2016
The cover of the book states that it comes "with supporting documents", which is a reference to the somewhat unique way the story is presented. The pages are a mix of journal entries from Angus the Brownie and the 10-year-old girl he serves, Alex, along with letters, transcripts, decrees, poems, and other documents pertinent to the story. This provides an entertaining way of reading a text that I think children would enjoy as well. As a teacher I could even see this leading nicely into activities related to primary and secondary sources and research skills. The text lends itself best to middle and upper elementary grades.
The premise that a fantastical Scottish creature called a Brownie has to travel to the U.S. to serve in a home there leads to some humorous situations. Angus's duties mirror those of a house elf from Harry Potter: He is to stay by Alex's side and tidy up for her until her death or until the curse laid upon his family is lifted. However, she is fully American, disconnected from her Scottish ancestors, and has no idea that the Enchanted Realm and creatures like Angus exist until his arrival. When the curse brings with it more than just the service of Angus, they must work together to figure out how to break the curse before Alex's family falls apart.
In the end, unfortunately, I did not find myself laughing as much as I thought I would. As a reader who is not usually a fan of fantasy, I will say it was nice that the setting of this story is largely low fantasy, based in the known world, so as to help me gently cross that border into the fantasy world. For that reason it may be a good way to introduce this genre to students who are unfamiliar with it.
The premise that a fantastical Scottish creature called a Brownie has to travel to the U.S. to serve in a home there leads to some humorous situations. Angus's duties mirror those of a house elf from Harry Potter: He is to stay by Alex's side and tidy up for her until her death or until the curse laid upon his family is lifted. However, she is fully American, disconnected from her Scottish ancestors, and has no idea that the Enchanted Realm and creatures like Angus exist until his arrival. When the curse brings with it more than just the service of Angus, they must work together to figure out how to break the curse before Alex's family falls apart.
In the end, unfortunately, I did not find myself laughing as much as I thought I would. As a reader who is not usually a fan of fantasy, I will say it was nice that the setting of this story is largely low fantasy, based in the known world, so as to help me gently cross that border into the fantasy world. For that reason it may be a good way to introduce this genre to students who are unfamiliar with it.
July 26, 2016
What a charming, funny, clever book! Our "mad brownie" is not just the wacky kind of mad but also infected with a terrible temper. Angus and Alex seem a horrible fit at first but, through compromise and working toward a common (urgent) goal, come to understand and befriend each other. I love the format of using letters, journal entries, and text tell a more complete story. The ingenious device of the curse is original and adds nice dramatic tension. The humor in the book is riotous--I laughed out loud at times. I think that kids, especially more reluctant boy readers, would be drawn to Angus with his humor and fits of temper (the pink dollhouse was hilarious!). Coville has such a wide range and this is one of my favorites of his. It looks like it will be a series and I can't wait to read more!
September 20, 2015
That was very enjoyable! Full review to come.
Originally posted at Small Review
I enjoyed this book much more than I thought I would. It's middle grade, but I was totally invested. The characters and world were fully realized and I would happily read more books about both. Extra points for the scene with the cat and Angus's lovingly derisive descriptions of his dollhouse home. Amusing, heartwarming, imaginative, and engaging, I would definitely purchase and recommend this book, particularly for fans of books like The Dragon's Guide to the Care and Feeding of Humans.
Originally posted at Small Review
Originally posted at Small Review
I enjoyed this book much more than I thought I would. It's middle grade, but I was totally invested. The characters and world were fully realized and I would happily read more books about both. Extra points for the scene with the cat and Angus's lovingly derisive descriptions of his dollhouse home. Amusing, heartwarming, imaginative, and engaging, I would definitely purchase and recommend this book, particularly for fans of books like The Dragon's Guide to the Care and Feeding of Humans.
Originally posted at Small Review
September 8, 2015
Bruce Coville is a clever storyteller and he is in top form with his story about a Scottish Brownie bound by a curse that forces him to move to modern America. The magic and realism is interwoven seamlessly so that the reader accepts the world of the Enchanted Realm with goblins, selkies, brownies, and more. Angus, the brownie with an attitude, is an endearing meddlesome character, much like Dobby the house-elf in Harry Potter. There is much to like in this story: an old curse, true love, ridiculously bad poetry, and magic seen through a young child's eyes. A first rate beginning to a new series.
September 7, 2015
Angus Cairns, a Scottish brownie, has an anger management problem. This is made worse when his binding curse sends him across the seas of the Enchanted Realm to America, to serve a slatternly girl called Alex. Who owns a fearsome cat! The two have a series of surprising adventures in an attempt to try and reverse the ancient curse. Funny, magical, ans steeped in Scottish lore, this story will appeal to all with an imagination.
March 13, 2018
Very entertaining, and I love all the diary entries and “other documents”. It’s a style I always enjoy. It took me a little while to get into this, but I think it’s because I started reading the ebook and a lot of the illustrations were missing or duplicated, and the text wasn’t lined up with the illustrations. None of it looked right. So I went to the library and got the hardcover edition - much better!
August 22, 2016
this book was cute. the kids liked it even though I think it's for older kids.
September 22, 2019
If you're looking for a well-read audiobook, look no further. I don't know what it is about brownies, but actors seem to love them. Just like in Funke's Dragon Rider, the brownie steals the show. Must be the Scottish accent.
Angus is a brownie, which is a small elf-like creature less than a foot tall (but don't call him an elf). He has been attached to the McGonagall family for the last 100 years. His beloved human, Sarah, has just died and he must now go to the youngest, able female in the family line. This happens to be Alex Carhart in America. Angus is not thrilled to leave his Scottish homeland, but America is the least of his worries. Alex is incredibly messy, doesn’t do her homework, and has a cat and brother. Angus has his work cut out for him.
There’s lots of hilarious action. Alex calls 911 to report an intruder when her room is cleaned. Angus uses the cat as transportation to take Alex’s forgotten homework to school. Alex’s brother and father are afflicted with the family curse of writing bad poetry and thinking it’s masterpiece material. The story is told through Angus’ diary entries, Alex’s school writing journal, and correspondence with teachers. Best of all is Angus’ matter-of-fact, no nonsense personality. Bruce Coville has written a memorable character. Looking forward to his other books about a griffin and a troll.
Angus is a brownie, which is a small elf-like creature less than a foot tall (but don't call him an elf). He has been attached to the McGonagall family for the last 100 years. His beloved human, Sarah, has just died and he must now go to the youngest, able female in the family line. This happens to be Alex Carhart in America. Angus is not thrilled to leave his Scottish homeland, but America is the least of his worries. Alex is incredibly messy, doesn’t do her homework, and has a cat and brother. Angus has his work cut out for him.
There’s lots of hilarious action. Alex calls 911 to report an intruder when her room is cleaned. Angus uses the cat as transportation to take Alex’s forgotten homework to school. Alex’s brother and father are afflicted with the family curse of writing bad poetry and thinking it’s masterpiece material. The story is told through Angus’ diary entries, Alex’s school writing journal, and correspondence with teachers. Best of all is Angus’ matter-of-fact, no nonsense personality. Bruce Coville has written a memorable character. Looking forward to his other books about a griffin and a troll.
January 29, 2023
Fun book! Far too easily devoured, too quickly. This is the kind of book I wish I had written!
Angus is a Brownie, bound by a curse to serve the women of a family that is also under a curse. When his beloved Sarah dies of old age, he must make the arduous journey from Scotland to America, to serve his new mistress, the youngest female of the family line.
Talk about culture shock. But Angus is a plucky, resourceful Brownie, determined to do his duty. Even if Alex, his new assignment, is a rather messy, disorganized girl who doesn't appreciate his tidying and organizing and trying to make life better for her.
The two are just starting to gain some respect and affection for each other when Alex's family and homelife starts changing. And Angus realizes to his horror that the curse has followed him from Scotland to America, and fastened itself on her family. How are they going to break the curse? He would leave if he could, to try to spare her family ... but he can't.
How do they solve this puzzle and do they manage to lift the curse? Ain't telling you -- it's too much fun -- you need to read and find it out for yourself.
Very well done. Clever. Funny. And all the "official documents," of reports, historical articles, emails, texts, and letters from teachers just add to the delightful adventure.
Angus is a Brownie, bound by a curse to serve the women of a family that is also under a curse. When his beloved Sarah dies of old age, he must make the arduous journey from Scotland to America, to serve his new mistress, the youngest female of the family line.
Talk about culture shock. But Angus is a plucky, resourceful Brownie, determined to do his duty. Even if Alex, his new assignment, is a rather messy, disorganized girl who doesn't appreciate his tidying and organizing and trying to make life better for her.
The two are just starting to gain some respect and affection for each other when Alex's family and homelife starts changing. And Angus realizes to his horror that the curse has followed him from Scotland to America, and fastened itself on her family. How are they going to break the curse? He would leave if he could, to try to spare her family ... but he can't.
How do they solve this puzzle and do they manage to lift the curse? Ain't telling you -- it's too much fun -- you need to read and find it out for yourself.
Very well done. Clever. Funny. And all the "official documents," of reports, historical articles, emails, texts, and letters from teachers just add to the delightful adventure.
March 17, 2022
This was a fun book. I listened to it as opposed to reading it, which I think made it more fun as the narrator put on a Scottish accent for Angus.
It was interesting to find bits of Christianity in a book about a brownie. Nothing exciting; simply mentions of churches and Angus mused on some biblical phrases. It was well placed and made sense to the story. I simply noted it because it was unexpected.
The entire concept was well thought out and though I'm sure it was partly because this is for younger readers, I appreciated that there wasn't a lot of wasteful world building. Enough description for us to understand what was going on, but sparse enough to make us feel like we could use our imaginations.
Looking forward to reading and/or listening to the other books in this series. The author was a favorite as a child and rediscovering him has been a delight. Instead of the books feeling tarnished by growing up and living life, I feel like I'm experiencing them in much the same way I did when I was young, which I think speaks volumes for the author.
It was interesting to find bits of Christianity in a book about a brownie. Nothing exciting; simply mentions of churches and Angus mused on some biblical phrases. It was well placed and made sense to the story. I simply noted it because it was unexpected.
The entire concept was well thought out and though I'm sure it was partly because this is for younger readers, I appreciated that there wasn't a lot of wasteful world building. Enough description for us to understand what was going on, but sparse enough to make us feel like we could use our imaginations.
Looking forward to reading and/or listening to the other books in this series. The author was a favorite as a child and rediscovering him has been a delight. Instead of the books feeling tarnished by growing up and living life, I feel like I'm experiencing them in much the same way I did when I was young, which I think speaks volumes for the author.
January 22, 2025
I've been reading this to my daughter at bedtime (she's 9) and she enjoyed the book quite a lot. She thought Angus and the Carhart family were fun and she liked the different letters from the teachers and such added in. I appreciate Mr. Coville's sense of timing and ability to give all of his characters a bit of complexity, and almost everyone who is mentioned has an arc, even if it's a very small one. It was a little bit difficult to read aloud with all the changes in who was communicating and how (there are some emails and other items mixed in with the diary entries) and those were a little tricky to switch around between while keeping track of who and what, but we managed :) My daughter did not ever seem confused. I am sure it wouldn't have been even the small issue it was if I wasn't reading it aloud. The switches added some depth and change of viewpoint that came off well-placed and purposeful, not just contrivances to move things along. Often, they were the payoff of a joke started somewhere in the diary entries. Overall, really enjoyable.
July 23, 2018
Angus Cairns is cursed to serve the McGonagall family as a household brownie (a magical person in charge of cleaning), a job he takes very seriously. Unfortunately, the next family in line lives in the United States. Packing up and leaving Scotland is hard enough, but being bound to tidy up after the world's messiest girl? It's almost more than Angus can take.
I was not expecting to like this book as much as I did, but Diary of a Mad Brownie checks all the boxes. Heartfelt, funny, and full of magic. I loved the use of "supporting documents" in the form of teacher's notes, emails, transcripts, and fictional excerpts, which provided insight and a peek at the world beyond Angus's diary. Most notably, though, is the effective use of humor, which is literally Laugh Out Loud funny and masterfully anchored into the characters and world.
I'd highly recommend Diary of a Mad Brownie to readers of all ages who love magical creatures and fantasy races.
I was not expecting to like this book as much as I did, but Diary of a Mad Brownie checks all the boxes. Heartfelt, funny, and full of magic. I loved the use of "supporting documents" in the form of teacher's notes, emails, transcripts, and fictional excerpts, which provided insight and a peek at the world beyond Angus's diary. Most notably, though, is the effective use of humor, which is literally Laugh Out Loud funny and masterfully anchored into the characters and world.
I'd highly recommend Diary of a Mad Brownie to readers of all ages who love magical creatures and fantasy races.
November 6, 2017
This hilarious tale begins with Angus the Brownie fulfilling his family's ancient curse to serve the youngest female member of the McGonagal family. His curse takes him to Alex Carhart, and she is the messiest girl Angus has ever met! As a Brownie, he must tidy up after Alex and her family, cause a little mischief here and there, and stay loyal to the oath he took as a Brownie. But, the curse he brought with him starts having pretty terrible effects on Alex's brother and father, causing them to quit the things that they love and pursue songwriting and poetry. Alex and Angus have no choice but to break his Brownie oath and travel to the Enchanted Realm to try to resolve the curse before it is too late!
July 18, 2018
This book is a Maud Hart Lovelace nominee for 2019. I would give it a 3.5 stars.
Many kids will like this story as it is fantasy, has some humor, and there are plenty of characters for everyone to enjoy. I didn’t love how it jumped back and forth in the format. It was mostly told from the POV of Angus, a brownie, don’t call him an elf, who has anger issues. But it was also told from the POV of Alex through her journal entries with a few text messages, long ago legends, and a newspaper article thrown in as well. I feel like this style could be confusing for the age at which it is aimed. Cute story, though, and I am sure it will be one of the popular titles on the MHL list despite not being top on my list. The kids often choose different titles than I do!
Many kids will like this story as it is fantasy, has some humor, and there are plenty of characters for everyone to enjoy. I didn’t love how it jumped back and forth in the format. It was mostly told from the POV of Angus, a brownie, don’t call him an elf, who has anger issues. But it was also told from the POV of Alex through her journal entries with a few text messages, long ago legends, and a newspaper article thrown in as well. I feel like this style could be confusing for the age at which it is aimed. Cute story, though, and I am sure it will be one of the popular titles on the MHL list despite not being top on my list. The kids often choose different titles than I do!
August 9, 2020
I really enjoy the genre fantasy and although this is clearly a kid's book and I'm an adult I enjoyed this adventure and found myself wishing I was Alex's age and a brownie came to live with me. Or better yet my 11 year old daughter could really use Angus the brownie to tidy up her room. The parallels I found between the main character and my own daughter made me laugh out loud. All the characters are very likable. (Her brother Bennett, sister Destiny and even the teachers- which you may not like at first, plus the little old lady at Happy Oaks)
I like how Princess Sunshine follows the McGonagall family which makes it more believable that she happens to be close by. I liked the silly poetry, I like it will inspire readers to write a poem better than Bennett's. (which shouldn't be too hard) It all around was a fun adventure.
I like how Princess Sunshine follows the McGonagall family which makes it more believable that she happens to be close by. I liked the silly poetry, I like it will inspire readers to write a poem better than Bennett's. (which shouldn't be too hard) It all around was a fun adventure.
April 24, 2023
Angus is a Brownie from Scotland, with a purely delightful Scottish accent. He is a little, but mighty, magical being with anger issues and although you may think he resembles an elf, don’t, for your life, suggest that to him! 😊😊 If you are fortunate enough to have one assigned to you, he will keep your room tidy (whether you like it or not) and will be useful in other ways, such as delivering your homework to school when you forget it. He does like to create mischief occasionally as any Brownie worth his salt would do, but may also help you to break any inconvenient curses that have been laid on to you or your family.
This is #1 in The Enchanted Files series. I read/listened to #3 first and now can’t find #2 available in audio…😕
This is #1 in The Enchanted Files series. I read/listened to #3 first and now can’t find #2 available in audio…😕
February 13, 2025
3.5/5.0 stars! I liked it a lot!
“I would say that I am getting soft in my old age, only I’m still fair young for a Brownie. I think it must be that this new world is making me a bit mad. That’s me, a Mad Brownie.”
I first read this book as an elementary school student, and I absolutely loved it. It still holds up well years later, and I am happy to see that the story still makes me laugh all these years later.
Diary of a Mad Brownie is a hilarious middle-grade book about a Brownie named Angus Carnes who is tethered to serve/clean the room of Alex(andra) Carhart.
The entire story was full of funny moments, and fun inserts. I loved reading this book because of all the different perspectives and “documents” inside.
I definitely recommend it!
“I would say that I am getting soft in my old age, only I’m still fair young for a Brownie. I think it must be that this new world is making me a bit mad. That’s me, a Mad Brownie.”
I first read this book as an elementary school student, and I absolutely loved it. It still holds up well years later, and I am happy to see that the story still makes me laugh all these years later.
Diary of a Mad Brownie is a hilarious middle-grade book about a Brownie named Angus Carnes who is tethered to serve/clean the room of Alex(andra) Carhart.
The entire story was full of funny moments, and fun inserts. I loved reading this book because of all the different perspectives and “documents” inside.
I definitely recommend it!
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March 12, 2018This is my selection for a lower level junior fiction book and, I must say, this may be the coolest lower level JFIC book out there! It is written by the bestselling author Bruce Coville who has written over 100 children and young adult books. For starters, a Brownie is an elfin creature from the enchanted realm. They are tasked with organizing, tidying, and straightening up human houses. The brownie in this story is named Angus. He assigned to the McGonagall family and his newest client is a 10-year old girl named Alex. This book is written in the style of a diary and includes pictures, diagrams, drawings, text message screenshots, maps, and journal entries. It is seriously so cool! The story is written from the viewpoint of Angus and chronicles his journey of being assigned to Alex, realizing that his curse has invaded Alex’s entire family, and how he teams up with Alex to stop it before it’s too late. This book combines the fantasy world that Angus comes from and the real world that Alex comes from. It is a story about family, friendship, and working together. Coville’s use of humor throughout the book is sure to keep readers turning the page; the title alone is a major attention grabber! I would recommend this book for 2nd-4th graders.
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