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Fairalon
When Iris's Grandmother passed, she left behind her house and all her possessions, including 5 wooden fairy dolls. It was all very strange. Why her? She was only 11 years old. A house? Dolls? She didn't play with dolls anymore. The one condition for her to keep her new house was that she was required to live in it. This is the same house where all the weird things happened, and it was out in the woods, in a new town.
Being the “new kid,” in a new town is weird enough, especially moving into a house with so many mysteries. And it doesn't take long before things start to happen, unexplainable things, strange things. Before they even get there, on the way to the house, on the dirt road leading to it, she sees a little boy on a swing disappear in mid-swing, in a burst of light.
Of course she tells her Dad, they stop the car and look for him, but he's gone. He didn't see it. He doesn't believe her. She has no friends here and her Dad thinks she has “issues,” since the death of her mother.
What can she do? Who can she tell? Who would believe her? She wonders if she should try to find him? What if you see things all the time that nobody else sees? Are you crazy?
11 year old Iris uncovers her own strange past and learns that anything is possible if you believe in yourself. Come with her and find yourself in the magical world of Fairalon, but be wary of the strange creatures you meet there.
Fairalon explores themes of trust, loneliness, friendship, and self-reliance with a sprinkle of budding romance in this coming of age action filled story.
Fairalon is a MG/YA fantasy novel with 30 full color illustrations.
Being the “new kid,” in a new town is weird enough, especially moving into a house with so many mysteries. And it doesn't take long before things start to happen, unexplainable things, strange things. Before they even get there, on the way to the house, on the dirt road leading to it, she sees a little boy on a swing disappear in mid-swing, in a burst of light.
Of course she tells her Dad, they stop the car and look for him, but he's gone. He didn't see it. He doesn't believe her. She has no friends here and her Dad thinks she has “issues,” since the death of her mother.
What can she do? Who can she tell? Who would believe her? She wonders if she should try to find him? What if you see things all the time that nobody else sees? Are you crazy?
11 year old Iris uncovers her own strange past and learns that anything is possible if you believe in yourself. Come with her and find yourself in the magical world of Fairalon, but be wary of the strange creatures you meet there.
Fairalon explores themes of trust, loneliness, friendship, and self-reliance with a sprinkle of budding romance in this coming of age action filled story.
Fairalon is a MG/YA fantasy novel with 30 full color illustrations.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 27, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
September 30, 2020
This was such a cute little read! A fantasy getaway for the younger ones!!
This book is laced with good lessons as well as consequences. It’s charming characters really draw you in and let you be part of the story! The book really iterates that with good friends and a good conscience, life really can be different!
This book is laced with good lessons as well as consequences. It’s charming characters really draw you in and let you be part of the story! The book really iterates that with good friends and a good conscience, life really can be different!
February 28, 2019
This book really speaks to me. It's as if I wrote it myself.
November 20, 2020
Iris is an obsessive compulsive eleven year old who sees things, hears voices, and has premonitions, or is she? Her behaviors started manifesting themselves at the age of six when her mother died. At eleven, at times they seem better, but at other times worse. Now, her grandmother has died and she has inherited her home and the rest of her estate. To claim her inheritance she must live in the house. As her dad and she journey to the old farmhouse she wonders if the decision is wise. However, once they arrive, she soon feels as if this is where she belongs. Awaiting her arrival are s five wooden dolls all named after flowers. She soon discovers these dolls are much more than what they seem.
This is a good fantasy read apparently written for pre-teen and young teen readers. However, use caution when recommending for young readers because there is some foul language and also some slightly graphic violence. I particularly enjoyed the interplay between the dolls, they are just downright hilarious at times. The Koan were also entertaining and reminded me somewhat of the buzzards in The Jungle Book.
A copy of this book was provided by Netgalley for my unbiased review.
This is a good fantasy read apparently written for pre-teen and young teen readers. However, use caution when recommending for young readers because there is some foul language and also some slightly graphic violence. I particularly enjoyed the interplay between the dolls, they are just downright hilarious at times. The Koan were also entertaining and reminded me somewhat of the buzzards in The Jungle Book.
A copy of this book was provided by Netgalley for my unbiased review.
August 22, 2020
This book was received as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Fairalon is one of those books that you have no really idea what it's about to be from the beginning. Fae and fairies are a common topic, especially in kids and teen lately, and everyone pulls from different sources that you never know what type you're able to get. These ones are decent, and the goblin lore is chill and makes a lot of sense.
The characters were cute, too, I liked Iris and Jeremy quite a bit as protagonists. They were decent to follow, and had a good energy throughout the entire book.
I wasn't altogether sure about this one at first, it seemed rather young for my liking. There doesn't really seem to be an age group it fits, if that makes sense. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, it's just odd because you can usually tell these things fairly easily. The pictures actually kind of detracted from things for me, 3D just doesn't look great in book form.
Fairalon is one of those books that you have no really idea what it's about to be from the beginning. Fae and fairies are a common topic, especially in kids and teen lately, and everyone pulls from different sources that you never know what type you're able to get. These ones are decent, and the goblin lore is chill and makes a lot of sense.
The characters were cute, too, I liked Iris and Jeremy quite a bit as protagonists. They were decent to follow, and had a good energy throughout the entire book.
I wasn't altogether sure about this one at first, it seemed rather young for my liking. There doesn't really seem to be an age group it fits, if that makes sense. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, it's just odd because you can usually tell these things fairly easily. The pictures actually kind of detracted from things for me, 3D just doesn't look great in book form.
September 27, 2020
I got this book because I thought that it was going to be interesting but then why were there green goblins I know that there a part of the goblin horde? but what's the back story to it like why did they turn evil? i don't remember if it said anything in the book. I didn't think that there was going to be a killer in the story.
I don't have a favourite part of the book, to be honest, but... when I think lris is a human, elf, fairy isn't elves and fairies kinda the same? but one has magic? and the other has wings? here's a thing that I don't understand why when you go on the swing you have to swing 99 times why not 100 to make it even?. The fairy that had the black wand is she dead or alive? I couldn't figure it out. I missed the part where they said it or the story didn't say.
All and all I didn't like this book because it was rather confusing if there are more books it the series, I may read it or may not because of how confusing this one was to me.
I don't have a favourite part of the book, to be honest, but... when I think lris is a human, elf, fairy isn't elves and fairies kinda the same? but one has magic? and the other has wings? here's a thing that I don't understand why when you go on the swing you have to swing 99 times why not 100 to make it even?. The fairy that had the black wand is she dead or alive? I couldn't figure it out. I missed the part where they said it or the story didn't say.
All and all I didn't like this book because it was rather confusing if there are more books it the series, I may read it or may not because of how confusing this one was to me.
December 10, 2020
Iris has been sad since her mother and then her grandmother both passed away. Her father is kind and supportive but at the same time he sees her as a patient suffering from nervous disorders and makes excuses for her, which is annoying! Iris' grandmother leaves Iris her house on the understanding that she must live there. It's the move that opens Iris' eyes to the realities of her background and that there really are fairies and magic in the world!
I loved this book, it has all the hallmarks of becoming a real children's classic. T. J. Roberts has written a wonderful book that deals with important issues like grief, trust, loneliness, friendship and self reliance. It's got everything from fairies, magic and adventure, not to mention a hint of first love. Absolutely brilliant and beautifully illustrated too!
I loved this book, it has all the hallmarks of becoming a real children's classic. T. J. Roberts has written a wonderful book that deals with important issues like grief, trust, loneliness, friendship and self reliance. It's got everything from fairies, magic and adventure, not to mention a hint of first love. Absolutely brilliant and beautifully illustrated too!
January 6, 2021
Beginning an adventure in Fairalon with Jeremy, Iris finds her grandfather, and learns more about her mysterious abilities. They also learn the young boy, Charlie, is in grave danger. Will Iris and Jeremy save Charlie from the goblins before time runs out? Or are they walking into a trap?
I love the author’s way of looking at OCD, and related “behaviors”. The world of Fairalon is beautiful and dark at the same time. Come, swing on into Fairalon with me.
I love the author’s way of looking at OCD, and related “behaviors”. The world of Fairalon is beautiful and dark at the same time. Come, swing on into Fairalon with me.
August 10, 2016
Many years ago, I remember an author referring to what he called “The Two Page Rule”. If you can get the first sentence of your book to make others want to read the first paragraph, and then have the first paragraph make them want to read the first page, and THEN have them want to read more . . . then as an author, you just passed “The Two Page Rule”.
Fairalon by T.J. Roberts is one of those rare books that steadfastly passes that rule. Not only in principle, but also in style and talent.
Though geared toward a younger type of audience (i.e. Young Adult), and following the classical “hero journey” methodology, Fairalon hits a mark where many books before it miss; character development. Over all plot, story lines, stylized descriptions of events and places . . . it all means nothing if the reader isn’t invested in the characters that make that journey. With Fairalon, you meet and relate to so many of the characters in the book that it’s one of the few books where I felt like a young kid again, reading my first book and losing myself to the wonderment that the characters are experiencing.
As stated before, the overall plot of Fairalon follows the “hero’s journey” methodology. A young girl, who is a bit of an outcast, finds herself not only involved in the secret world of her family’s history but also hinting toward her being a centrical part of its salvation. Fairies, Goblins (as well as a few unique characters that I won’t spoil) round out a small but colorful group of characters that drive the plot forward and lay ground work for additional tales to come.
I really enjoyed reading this book and being introduced to the characters and the world of Fairalon. T.J. Roberts has a keen insight into the mind of a young girl grasping with depression, confusion and all the ill that come with it. And then to show the growth of that girl into a more accepted young adult in which the world around isn’t what she was lead to believe truly shows the mark of a talented writer.
Can’t wait for the next one (there IS going to be a next one, right)?
Fairalon by T.J. Roberts is one of those rare books that steadfastly passes that rule. Not only in principle, but also in style and talent.
Though geared toward a younger type of audience (i.e. Young Adult), and following the classical “hero journey” methodology, Fairalon hits a mark where many books before it miss; character development. Over all plot, story lines, stylized descriptions of events and places . . . it all means nothing if the reader isn’t invested in the characters that make that journey. With Fairalon, you meet and relate to so many of the characters in the book that it’s one of the few books where I felt like a young kid again, reading my first book and losing myself to the wonderment that the characters are experiencing.
As stated before, the overall plot of Fairalon follows the “hero’s journey” methodology. A young girl, who is a bit of an outcast, finds herself not only involved in the secret world of her family’s history but also hinting toward her being a centrical part of its salvation. Fairies, Goblins (as well as a few unique characters that I won’t spoil) round out a small but colorful group of characters that drive the plot forward and lay ground work for additional tales to come.
I really enjoyed reading this book and being introduced to the characters and the world of Fairalon. T.J. Roberts has a keen insight into the mind of a young girl grasping with depression, confusion and all the ill that come with it. And then to show the growth of that girl into a more accepted young adult in which the world around isn’t what she was lead to believe truly shows the mark of a talented writer.
Can’t wait for the next one (there IS going to be a next one, right)?
January 22, 2016
Eleven-year-old Iris already has strikes against her: she's the new kid in town, and her quirky behaviors involve repetitive rituals and actions that have, in the past, been labeled an illness.
Now she knows they're something more: they are instinctive reactions to her strange and evolving abilities, and they hold the power to alert her of future disasters. That's why she was able to save a young girl from a peculiar car accident, and why she sees things others don't.
The first thing to note about this captivating fantasy is that it's liberally peppered with full-color (and well-done) illustrations that enhance its story line. From autos in the woods to strange mischievous beings, Fairalon is packed with visual interludes that enhance the story without taking it over completely. Middle-grade readers will thus appreciate the enhancements which create visual interest in Iris's adventures.
The second notable feature of Fairalon is an attention to supplementing a fantasy adventure feel with the realistic saga of a young girl's evolving perceptions of her powers, her world, and whom she can trust. Fueled by strong psychological insights and solid character development, it's a story young readers will empathize with as they read about Iris's unusual challenges.
Fairalon excels in a steady plot that offers several twists and turns and much insight on not just the origins of inherited traits, but choices in how power is wielded.
Middle school fantasy fans will be enthralled as Iris' world expands in unanticipated directions. It should be mentioned that its conclusion paves the way for more books, yet completes her story in a manner that is satisfying and exact, making for a fine introduction to what might become a series. An exciting blend of adventure, psychological insight, and beautiful illustrations make Fairalon a prime pick in its genre.
Now she knows they're something more: they are instinctive reactions to her strange and evolving abilities, and they hold the power to alert her of future disasters. That's why she was able to save a young girl from a peculiar car accident, and why she sees things others don't.
The first thing to note about this captivating fantasy is that it's liberally peppered with full-color (and well-done) illustrations that enhance its story line. From autos in the woods to strange mischievous beings, Fairalon is packed with visual interludes that enhance the story without taking it over completely. Middle-grade readers will thus appreciate the enhancements which create visual interest in Iris's adventures.
The second notable feature of Fairalon is an attention to supplementing a fantasy adventure feel with the realistic saga of a young girl's evolving perceptions of her powers, her world, and whom she can trust. Fueled by strong psychological insights and solid character development, it's a story young readers will empathize with as they read about Iris's unusual challenges.
Fairalon excels in a steady plot that offers several twists and turns and much insight on not just the origins of inherited traits, but choices in how power is wielded.
Middle school fantasy fans will be enthralled as Iris' world expands in unanticipated directions. It should be mentioned that its conclusion paves the way for more books, yet completes her story in a manner that is satisfying and exact, making for a fine introduction to what might become a series. An exciting blend of adventure, psychological insight, and beautiful illustrations make Fairalon a prime pick in its genre.
April 12, 2016
Fairalon is a delightful fantasy novel that will most likely appeal to preteen girls. The main character, Iris, is unhappy after losing both her mother and grandmother within a two year period. She has been having very strange things happen to her. When she shares these visions with her father, he thinks she is crazy and takes her to see a doctor. Iris ends up finding out that she is very special (not crazy) and her grandmother knew it all along! When her grandmother died, she left all of her possessions to Iris on the condition that Iris moves into her home. In this house many secrets are revealed that explain all the strange happenings and how very special Iris is!
Opinion:
I have to start by mentioning the illustrations in this book are quite unique! They appear animated and are super colorful. I only read a digital copy of this book, so they are probably even more stunning on the printed page! The story caught my attention right away. I read almost 100 pages in the first sitting! I enjoyed seeing Iris change from a depressed girl with very low self-esteem to a confident hero! T.J. Roberts did an excellent job building her character and painting a descriptive scene of Fairalon, which is sure to make every reader wish they could visit this magical place!
Reviewed by a LitPick student book reviewer Age: 11
Opinion:
I have to start by mentioning the illustrations in this book are quite unique! They appear animated and are super colorful. I only read a digital copy of this book, so they are probably even more stunning on the printed page! The story caught my attention right away. I read almost 100 pages in the first sitting! I enjoyed seeing Iris change from a depressed girl with very low self-esteem to a confident hero! T.J. Roberts did an excellent job building her character and painting a descriptive scene of Fairalon, which is sure to make every reader wish they could visit this magical place!
Reviewed by a LitPick student book reviewer Age: 11
March 8, 2016
Fairalon by TJ Roberts is a well written fantasy novel for young adults. It is so rare to find well written young adult books with full color illustrations. I found the full color illustrations to be beautifully done; they really helped the reader to be able to picture the book in their mind. The story itself focuses on Iris, an eleven year old girl; Iris has had a problem since her mother’s death with repeating almost everything she does, to make sure she gets it right, to make sure nothing that bad ever happens again. I really liked Iris as a character I felt like understood her frustration with no believing her and her desire to prove that she is not crazy to those she loves and cares about. While Fairalon by TJ Roberts is a young adult novel and is geared towards middle school aged children it can still be enjoyed by adults. As an adult I found the book to be both captivating and intriguing the only thing I would have preferred would have been for Iris to be older, but that is one of the reasons the book is meant more for young adults than adults. I was provided a free copy for review purposes.
May 30, 2016
Fairalon is a wonderful read for every age group, it is well written and accessible at all reading levels. I'm impressed with the imagination of the writer on the description of beautiful places and variety of characters in such fine and magical detail that you can’t help but fall in love with the world he has created.
It's an adorable story about honesty, trust, bravery, and acceptance. The main characters Irish shows a lot of perseverance when the going gets tough, and I think the biggest lesson young readers will take away is the importance and value of friendship. Overall it was a great read, full of action plot combined with the fantasy aspects which held my interest all the way through into the tale. I highly recommend this book!
It's an adorable story about honesty, trust, bravery, and acceptance. The main characters Irish shows a lot of perseverance when the going gets tough, and I think the biggest lesson young readers will take away is the importance and value of friendship. Overall it was a great read, full of action plot combined with the fantasy aspects which held my interest all the way through into the tale. I highly recommend this book!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews