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Molly & Pim and the Millions of Stars
All Molly wants is to be normal like her friend Ellen Palmer. Ellen, with her neat braids and a tidy house and a mother and father who are home for dinner every night. But Molly's mom spends her mornings tramping through the woods, looking for ingredients for her potions. Their house is not neat, and their rooster, the Gentleman, runs wild in their yard. And it is the Gentleman that angers their grumpy neighbors, the Grimshaws. So Molly's mom makes a potion that will grow a tree between their houses.
When Molly's mom accidentally drinks the potion and turns into the tree, Molly is determined to get her back. But with the Grimshaws planning to cut down the tree branches that reach onto their property, time is of the essence. With the help of her mysterious classmate Pim Wilder, Molly sets out to save her mother and discovers the wonder that lies in the ordinary.
When Molly's mom accidentally drinks the potion and turns into the tree, Molly is determined to get her back. But with the Grimshaws planning to cut down the tree branches that reach onto their property, time is of the essence. With the help of her mysterious classmate Pim Wilder, Molly sets out to save her mother and discovers the wonder that lies in the ordinary.
192 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2015
15 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
About the author
Martine Murray
18 books58 followersMartine Murray, a native and a current resident of Melbourne, Australia, is an accomplished author with a variety of other talents and interests. She has studied film making at Prahan College, painting at the Victorian College of the Arts, and movement and dance at Melbourne University. She began writing as a method of keeping track of all of her activities. She explains, “I was writing in journals a lot while I was in art school. I also used to write on my canvasses or write on etchings and make tiny stories that weren't really stories, they were more like sketches of moments.”
Soon enough, Martine had authored and illustrated the gentle, funny, and gloriously playful books such as The Slightly True Story of Cedar B. Hartley (Who Planned to Live an Unusual Life). In the story of twelve-year old Cedar B. Hartley, the young heroine befriends the son of a circus family and coordinates a local circus to raise money for the community's dog operation. The book has won a number of awards, including NYPL 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing, Book Sense 76 Children's Pick, it was shortlisted for Children's Book Council of Australia Book of the year Award, shortlisted for New South Wales Premier's Literary Award, and won the Patricia Wrightson Prize for Children's Books.
Martine Murray is currently enrolled in Professional Writing at RMIT and plans further study in screen writing and short story.
Soon enough, Martine had authored and illustrated the gentle, funny, and gloriously playful books such as The Slightly True Story of Cedar B. Hartley (Who Planned to Live an Unusual Life). In the story of twelve-year old Cedar B. Hartley, the young heroine befriends the son of a circus family and coordinates a local circus to raise money for the community's dog operation. The book has won a number of awards, including NYPL 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing, Book Sense 76 Children's Pick, it was shortlisted for Children's Book Council of Australia Book of the year Award, shortlisted for New South Wales Premier's Literary Award, and won the Patricia Wrightson Prize for Children's Books.
Martine Murray is currently enrolled in Professional Writing at RMIT and plans further study in screen writing and short story.
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July 11, 2015
“…today is a prickly day….Molly flexed her toes to let them know she would soon be depending on them. Everything was bound to be in a contrary way this morning; even her toes might misbehave”
Molly and Pim and the Millions of Stars is a novel by Australian author and illustrator, Martine Murray. Molly lives in a house with her mama, Claudine the cat and Maudie the black-and-white collie dog. They live next to Ernest and Prudence Grimshaw, staunch, zipped-up, sneering people who are always complaining. Their latest gripe is about being woken by the early-morning crowing of mama and Milly’s rooster, the Gentleman.
Molly loves her mama, but she wishes she were a bit more normal, like her best friend, Ellen’s mama, who lives in a normal house, drives a normal car and puts apricot muesli bars in Ellen’s lunchbox. Molly’s mama collects wild herbs at dawn, rides a yellow bike with two seats and tries to solve the problem of the complainers in an original way. But something goes a bit wrong, and suddenly, Molly’s mama is a tree. The mama tree is beautiful and different (just like Molly’s mama), with strange and delicious fruit, but it doesn’t cook. And while eating as many chocolate cashew balls as she wants for dinner is nice, Molly longs for mama’s black-eyed pea autumn stew.
Molly is afraid to tell Ellen what has happened: Ellen might be horrified and might not want to be her friend. But when Pim Wilder comes along, Molly thinks he might be able to help: “Pim was like a walk in the woods at dusk: full of darkness and brightness both at once, he was restless and unfitting, pouncing on ideas and lifting them out of the dark. Pim’s world was the mysterious world of owls, stars, animals and earth”
Murray gives the reader a truly delightful tale and adorns her text with charming illustrations, and Imogen Stubbs has provided a sparkling cover. Molly, her mama and her friends have words of wisdom and insightful observations. Murray’s descriptive prose is often lovely: “The world was never completely still and quiet, but the night had a special sort of hushed activity. Things rustled and seemed hidden within the blackness, and it was as if dreams bloomed like shadows and escaped from their moorings and grew in momentous, invisible ways”. Ultimately, Molly learns: “Everyone has their own world: you, me, Pim Wilder, everyone. We’re all like little stars, shining as hard as we can, with our own particular kind of light”. A magical read. 4.5★s
Molly and Pim and the Millions of Stars is a novel by Australian author and illustrator, Martine Murray. Molly lives in a house with her mama, Claudine the cat and Maudie the black-and-white collie dog. They live next to Ernest and Prudence Grimshaw, staunch, zipped-up, sneering people who are always complaining. Their latest gripe is about being woken by the early-morning crowing of mama and Milly’s rooster, the Gentleman.
Molly loves her mama, but she wishes she were a bit more normal, like her best friend, Ellen’s mama, who lives in a normal house, drives a normal car and puts apricot muesli bars in Ellen’s lunchbox. Molly’s mama collects wild herbs at dawn, rides a yellow bike with two seats and tries to solve the problem of the complainers in an original way. But something goes a bit wrong, and suddenly, Molly’s mama is a tree. The mama tree is beautiful and different (just like Molly’s mama), with strange and delicious fruit, but it doesn’t cook. And while eating as many chocolate cashew balls as she wants for dinner is nice, Molly longs for mama’s black-eyed pea autumn stew.
Molly is afraid to tell Ellen what has happened: Ellen might be horrified and might not want to be her friend. But when Pim Wilder comes along, Molly thinks he might be able to help: “Pim was like a walk in the woods at dusk: full of darkness and brightness both at once, he was restless and unfitting, pouncing on ideas and lifting them out of the dark. Pim’s world was the mysterious world of owls, stars, animals and earth”
Murray gives the reader a truly delightful tale and adorns her text with charming illustrations, and Imogen Stubbs has provided a sparkling cover. Molly, her mama and her friends have words of wisdom and insightful observations. Murray’s descriptive prose is often lovely: “The world was never completely still and quiet, but the night had a special sort of hushed activity. Things rustled and seemed hidden within the blackness, and it was as if dreams bloomed like shadows and escaped from their moorings and grew in momentous, invisible ways”. Ultimately, Molly learns: “Everyone has their own world: you, me, Pim Wilder, everyone. We’re all like little stars, shining as hard as we can, with our own particular kind of light”. A magical read. 4.5★s
July 3, 2017
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Molly and Pim and the Millions of Stars was a joyful and lovely middle grade read. Contemporary sprinkled with magic realism, the underlying story is about friendship, acceptance and learning the value that the grass isn't always greener. Molly is at that age where she's incredibly self conscious about how she's perceived. She see's best friend Ellen as having the perfect life, full of modern conveniences and so far removed from her own. She's inquisitive, but wants nothing more for her mother to be normal. Until she suddenly doesn't have a mother. Sort of. A spell that has gone horribly wrong leaves Molly to fend for herself and no one to turn to. She can't tell Ellen what's happened to her mother so that leaves weird and wonderful Pim. I loved his character. He brought spark and personality to the storyline and was a brilliant example of all things unique. He was understanding, not to mention reliable and gave off an air of honesty.
The most magical aspect of the storyline was the fantasy elements. It added such a lovely sense of whimsy. The only negative aspect for me was Molly's missing father and brothers. Her father was supposedly lost in Cuba, but the storyline didn't expand further on his character or lack thereof. For children, Molly's missing father may pose more questions than answers. A small gripe that also could also be used for further discussion with older children.
Whimsical and utterly lovely, Molly and Pim and the Millions of Stars will enchant middle grade readers and adults alike. Children will adore the magical realism and the underlying storyline of friendship and acceptance. The monochrome illustrations throughout are simply lovely. A delight to read.
Molly and Pim and the Millions of Stars was a joyful and lovely middle grade read. Contemporary sprinkled with magic realism, the underlying story is about friendship, acceptance and learning the value that the grass isn't always greener. Molly is at that age where she's incredibly self conscious about how she's perceived. She see's best friend Ellen as having the perfect life, full of modern conveniences and so far removed from her own. She's inquisitive, but wants nothing more for her mother to be normal. Until she suddenly doesn't have a mother. Sort of. A spell that has gone horribly wrong leaves Molly to fend for herself and no one to turn to. She can't tell Ellen what's happened to her mother so that leaves weird and wonderful Pim. I loved his character. He brought spark and personality to the storyline and was a brilliant example of all things unique. He was understanding, not to mention reliable and gave off an air of honesty.
The most magical aspect of the storyline was the fantasy elements. It added such a lovely sense of whimsy. The only negative aspect for me was Molly's missing father and brothers. Her father was supposedly lost in Cuba, but the storyline didn't expand further on his character or lack thereof. For children, Molly's missing father may pose more questions than answers. A small gripe that also could also be used for further discussion with older children.
Whimsical and utterly lovely, Molly and Pim and the Millions of Stars will enchant middle grade readers and adults alike. Children will adore the magical realism and the underlying storyline of friendship and acceptance. The monochrome illustrations throughout are simply lovely. A delight to read.
December 8, 2017
Kitabın kapağı, hissettirdiği bilgelik, sonundaki bitki bilgileri çok güzel lakin hikayeyi çok zayıf buldum. 200 sayfa boyunca anlattığı sadece bir olay var ve bunu destekleyen yan dallar yok. Bir şey oluyor-süreç yaşanıyor-ve çözülme. Detaylarda boğulmayalım derken bu kadar sadelik de çok yavan geldi bana :) Bitkilere ilgili çocuklar sevebilir..
July 29, 2015
Text's word of the Month: 'Whimsical'
It is also incidentally a word that seems to be popping up a lot for Molly and Pim. There's always room for more whimsy.
‘Molly and Pim is wild, whimsical and wonderful. It makes you fall in love with the world and everyone in it.’
Sally Rippin
‘Open-hearted and magical—an utter delight.’
Rebecca Stead
It is also incidentally a word that seems to be popping up a lot for Molly and Pim. There's always room for more whimsy.
‘Molly and Pim is wild, whimsical and wonderful. It makes you fall in love with the world and everyone in it.’
Sally Rippin
‘Open-hearted and magical—an utter delight.’
Rebecca Stead
April 6, 2021
“…today is a prickly day….Molly flexed her toes to let them know she would soon be depending on them. Everything was bound to be in a contrary way this morning; even her toes might misbehave”
Molly and Pim and the Millions of Stars is a novel by Australian author and illustrator, Martine Murray. The audio version is read by Kerry Armstrong. Molly lives in a house with her mama, Claudine the cat and Maudie the black-and-white collie dog. They live next to Ernest and Prudence Grimshaw, staunch, zipped-up, sneering people who are always complaining. Their latest gripe is about being woken by the early-morning crowing of mama and Milly’s rooster, the Gentleman.
Molly loves her mama, but she wishes she were a bit more normal, like her best friend, Ellen’s mama, who lives in a normal house, drives a normal car and puts apricot muesli bars in Ellen’s lunchbox. Molly’s mama collects wild herbs at dawn, rides a yellow bike with two seats and tries to solve the problem of the complainers in an original way. But something goes a bit wrong, and suddenly, Molly’s mama is a tree. The mama tree is beautiful and different (just like Molly’s mama), with strange and delicious fruit, but it doesn’t cook. And while eating as many chocolate cashew balls as she wants for dinner is nice, Molly longs for mama’s black-eyed pea autumn stew.
Molly is afraid to tell Ellen what has happened: Ellen might be horrified and might not want to be her friend. But when Pim Wilder comes along, Molly thinks he might be able to help: “Pim was like a walk in the woods at dusk: full of darkness and brightness both at once, he was restless and unfitting, pouncing on ideas and lifting them out of the dark. Pim’s world was the mysterious world of owls, stars, animals and earth”
Murray gives the reader a truly delightful tale and adorns her text with charming illustrations, and Imogen Stubbs has provided a sparkling cover. Molly, her mama and her friends have words of wisdom and insightful observations. Murray’s descriptive prose is often lovely: “The world was never completely still and quiet, but the night had a special sort of hushed activity. Things rustled and seemed hidden within the blackness, and it was as if dreams bloomed like shadows and escaped from their moorings and grew in momentous, invisible ways”. Ultimately, Molly learns: “Everyone has their own world: you, me, Pim Wilder, everyone. We’re all like little stars, shining as hard as we can, with our own particular kind of light”. A magical read. 4.5★s
Molly and Pim and the Millions of Stars is a novel by Australian author and illustrator, Martine Murray. The audio version is read by Kerry Armstrong. Molly lives in a house with her mama, Claudine the cat and Maudie the black-and-white collie dog. They live next to Ernest and Prudence Grimshaw, staunch, zipped-up, sneering people who are always complaining. Their latest gripe is about being woken by the early-morning crowing of mama and Milly’s rooster, the Gentleman.
Molly loves her mama, but she wishes she were a bit more normal, like her best friend, Ellen’s mama, who lives in a normal house, drives a normal car and puts apricot muesli bars in Ellen’s lunchbox. Molly’s mama collects wild herbs at dawn, rides a yellow bike with two seats and tries to solve the problem of the complainers in an original way. But something goes a bit wrong, and suddenly, Molly’s mama is a tree. The mama tree is beautiful and different (just like Molly’s mama), with strange and delicious fruit, but it doesn’t cook. And while eating as many chocolate cashew balls as she wants for dinner is nice, Molly longs for mama’s black-eyed pea autumn stew.
Molly is afraid to tell Ellen what has happened: Ellen might be horrified and might not want to be her friend. But when Pim Wilder comes along, Molly thinks he might be able to help: “Pim was like a walk in the woods at dusk: full of darkness and brightness both at once, he was restless and unfitting, pouncing on ideas and lifting them out of the dark. Pim’s world was the mysterious world of owls, stars, animals and earth”
Murray gives the reader a truly delightful tale and adorns her text with charming illustrations, and Imogen Stubbs has provided a sparkling cover. Molly, her mama and her friends have words of wisdom and insightful observations. Murray’s descriptive prose is often lovely: “The world was never completely still and quiet, but the night had a special sort of hushed activity. Things rustled and seemed hidden within the blackness, and it was as if dreams bloomed like shadows and escaped from their moorings and grew in momentous, invisible ways”. Ultimately, Molly learns: “Everyone has their own world: you, me, Pim Wilder, everyone. We’re all like little stars, shining as hard as we can, with our own particular kind of light”. A magical read. 4.5★s
June 3, 2017
Shortlisted for last year's CBCA Book of The Year Younger Readers, I borrowed it from the library back then. I love Martine Murray's whimsical illustrations, but somehow Molly and Pim went back to the library without being read. It took me until now to borrow the audio book and read the story this time round. My recurring refrain - why did it take me so long??
I love this picturesque tale of being different, but finding out that's not such a bad thing, and along the way your mother turns into a tree. Listening to the audio book, I missed the illustrations. It wasn't a problem until the last chapter - Molly's notebook. I'll re-borrow the paperback to flick through and remind myself of them. Kerry Armstrong's narration is perfect but the author's illustrations need to be seen.
Molly and her Mumma are hilarious. Their ongoing battle with the evil Grimshaws is rollicking fun. The neighbours are reminiscent of Roald Dahl's The Twits, although a crowing rooster would send anyone into apoplexies. "Almost as golden as the dawn, and then it just seeps like a little song into my dreams" - my ass.
Claudette the cat and Maud the border collie are important companions when Molly loses her Mumma to treedom, which enamoured the story to me even more, but a jam-eating cat!? I guess Molly's diet of chocolate balls is just as bad.
This review is from my blog http://ofceilingwax.wordpress.com/201...
"Have you lost your Mumma? When she's right there in front of you, just changed into a tree and rooted to the ground."
I love this picturesque tale of being different, but finding out that's not such a bad thing, and along the way your mother turns into a tree. Listening to the audio book, I missed the illustrations. It wasn't a problem until the last chapter - Molly's notebook. I'll re-borrow the paperback to flick through and remind myself of them. Kerry Armstrong's narration is perfect but the author's illustrations need to be seen.
Molly and her Mumma are hilarious. Their ongoing battle with the evil Grimshaws is rollicking fun. The neighbours are reminiscent of Roald Dahl's The Twits, although a crowing rooster would send anyone into apoplexies. "Almost as golden as the dawn, and then it just seeps like a little song into my dreams" - my ass.
Claudette the cat and Maud the border collie are important companions when Molly loses her Mumma to treedom, which enamoured the story to me even more, but a jam-eating cat!? I guess Molly's diet of chocolate balls is just as bad.
"Pim was so very thoughtful about things that weren't quite certain and measurable."
This review is from my blog http://ofceilingwax.wordpress.com/201...
July 6, 2015
‘Molly and Pim and the Millions of Stars’ is the new middle-grade/juvenile fiction novel from Australian author Martine Murray.
Something really interesting happened this year, with Hardie Grant Egmont’s Ampersand Project (which seeks out new voices in youth literature) – they opened the prize up to more than just Young Adult manuscripts, but also middle-grade (books for 8 to 12-year-olds).
I think that’s really interesting because for a while there, Australia had high-quality children’s picture books, great junior fiction (for 5+, think Sally Rippin and Anh Do!) and of course our young adult scene is out of this world (14-18, roughly) but in the past we had less Australian middle-grade on offer, and had to rely on US and UK authors to fill the gap (I’m thinking of ‘Wonder’ by RJ Palacio, everything by Rebecca Stead and Hilary McKay).
But in the last five years or so, I’ve seen the tides turning – Ampersand’s inclusion of middle-grade manuscripts is yet another example of the Oz Publishing scene recognising the need for more Australian voices writing to this age group. Equally amazing has been the establishment of The Readings Children’s Book Prize, awarding stellar emerging authors who have been writing for this readership.
So – with all that in mind allow me to celebrate this gorgeous and wondrous book from Martine Murray, which is a real gift for the middle-grade readership.
This novel is filled with magical realism and whimsy, while still having its feet just firmly enough on the ground. It’s a story about friendship – and about the curious incident that sees Molly’s mother turning herself (accidentally!) into a tree, and the repercussions that follows …
Friendship is a big part of the novel – Molly is friends with Ellen and Pim Wilder, the latter of whom is a boy “always worth watching” who offers up the strangest sorts of facts about the natural world and outer-space;
Molly was secretly fascinated by Pim Wilder. He didn’t move with the pack. He wasn’t drawn by the cool talk and the latest fads. And this made him interesting, and a little intimidating too. Ellen was afraid of him. But Ellen was easily afraid. She would never walk in the woods on her own or rescue a spider from the bath. If Molly told Ellen about her mama’s herbs and potions, Ellen might even find this too strange and scary.
I loved the fact that Molly is grounded with these very real problems in her life, having to be very careful about the sides of herself she shows to the rest of the world, and being drawn to a new friend who sparks her sense of wonder and adventure … and at the same time, HER MOTHER IS A TREE! I think young readers will be at once tickled with the whole concept, and very connected to the complex character of Molly, her friendship woes and identity crisis.
There are sweet little illustrations throughout the book, drawn by Martine Murray who also did the cover illustration. They are like little treasures between the pages, and a real delight in a book that’s already choc-full of them in story!
Here is a middle-grade novel that sees beauty and magic in the environment around us, and celebrates seeds of friendship which grow deep roots. I loved this charming and whimsical novel, and young readers will too!
Something really interesting happened this year, with Hardie Grant Egmont’s Ampersand Project (which seeks out new voices in youth literature) – they opened the prize up to more than just Young Adult manuscripts, but also middle-grade (books for 8 to 12-year-olds).
I think that’s really interesting because for a while there, Australia had high-quality children’s picture books, great junior fiction (for 5+, think Sally Rippin and Anh Do!) and of course our young adult scene is out of this world (14-18, roughly) but in the past we had less Australian middle-grade on offer, and had to rely on US and UK authors to fill the gap (I’m thinking of ‘Wonder’ by RJ Palacio, everything by Rebecca Stead and Hilary McKay).
But in the last five years or so, I’ve seen the tides turning – Ampersand’s inclusion of middle-grade manuscripts is yet another example of the Oz Publishing scene recognising the need for more Australian voices writing to this age group. Equally amazing has been the establishment of The Readings Children’s Book Prize, awarding stellar emerging authors who have been writing for this readership.
So – with all that in mind allow me to celebrate this gorgeous and wondrous book from Martine Murray, which is a real gift for the middle-grade readership.
This novel is filled with magical realism and whimsy, while still having its feet just firmly enough on the ground. It’s a story about friendship – and about the curious incident that sees Molly’s mother turning herself (accidentally!) into a tree, and the repercussions that follows …
Friendship is a big part of the novel – Molly is friends with Ellen and Pim Wilder, the latter of whom is a boy “always worth watching” who offers up the strangest sorts of facts about the natural world and outer-space;
Molly was secretly fascinated by Pim Wilder. He didn’t move with the pack. He wasn’t drawn by the cool talk and the latest fads. And this made him interesting, and a little intimidating too. Ellen was afraid of him. But Ellen was easily afraid. She would never walk in the woods on her own or rescue a spider from the bath. If Molly told Ellen about her mama’s herbs and potions, Ellen might even find this too strange and scary.
I loved the fact that Molly is grounded with these very real problems in her life, having to be very careful about the sides of herself she shows to the rest of the world, and being drawn to a new friend who sparks her sense of wonder and adventure … and at the same time, HER MOTHER IS A TREE! I think young readers will be at once tickled with the whole concept, and very connected to the complex character of Molly, her friendship woes and identity crisis.
There are sweet little illustrations throughout the book, drawn by Martine Murray who also did the cover illustration. They are like little treasures between the pages, and a real delight in a book that’s already choc-full of them in story!
Here is a middle-grade novel that sees beauty and magic in the environment around us, and celebrates seeds of friendship which grow deep roots. I loved this charming and whimsical novel, and young readers will too!
February 7, 2017
Molly longs not to have a mother who heads into the woods to collect weeds and herbs. She wants a normal family that has a normal house, not one that feels like a caravan inside. She wants a mother who gives her granola bars in packages, not one who creates potions and treatments. Her neighbors want them to calm down too, get control of their rooster who crows at dawn and to neaten up their yard. Molly’s mother creates a powerful potion to grow a tree in one night that will shield them from the neighbors, but accidentally drinks it herself. Suddenly, Molly’s mother has turned into a tree. Now Molly has to decide who to trust with the secrets of her life. It can’t be Ellen, her best friend, who is very normal and whose life Molly covets. Instead she turns to the odd boy in their class, Pim, who creates a plan along with Molly to bring her mother back. But will it work before her neighbors start to cut off the branches of the wild new tree?
This Australian import is a magical read and not only for the real magic that happens on the pages. It has a gorgeous tone about it, one that is organic and delicious at the same time. One feels invited directly into the wonder of potions and weeds, your hands itching to get out there and brew your own green syrup. The voice throughout is fresh and filled with surprise.
Molly grows throughout the book, realizing that her own unique upbringing is nothing to be ashamed of. I love that it is Ellen, the normal one, who teaches her this. She speaks directly to Molly about how it feels to be excluded and how important it is to trust. The writing in the book is very special, creating moments like these that are less about lectures and more about sudden inspiration and realizations.
A gorgeously written novel that offers potions, magic and wonder. Appropriate for ages 9-12.
This Australian import is a magical read and not only for the real magic that happens on the pages. It has a gorgeous tone about it, one that is organic and delicious at the same time. One feels invited directly into the wonder of potions and weeds, your hands itching to get out there and brew your own green syrup. The voice throughout is fresh and filled with surprise.
Molly grows throughout the book, realizing that her own unique upbringing is nothing to be ashamed of. I love that it is Ellen, the normal one, who teaches her this. She speaks directly to Molly about how it feels to be excluded and how important it is to trust. The writing in the book is very special, creating moments like these that are less about lectures and more about sudden inspiration and realizations.
A gorgeously written novel that offers potions, magic and wonder. Appropriate for ages 9-12.
July 12, 2017
A whimsical delight. Her descriptions are fabulous, her characters interesting and full of personality. Add magic and you have a perfect book to curl up with on a sunny afternoon.
February 4, 2017
Molly is 10 years old and just wants to be normal. But her Manic Pixie-esque mom is anything but "normal" like Ellen's mom; who sends Ellen to school with food in packets and would NEVER make strange potions at home or talk about strange things. When a potion goes wrong , Molly has to team up with the equally strange boy in her class, Pim, to try to save her mother. Along the way she redefines friendships, realizes what matters most to her, and finds a strength in herself (and her strangeness) that she never knew she had. This is quirky and adorable and has some fun characters and good messages along with some fantasy elements (magical potions) and some really lovely writing: "Molly's problem was a tiny dot in the night. And if you joined up all those dots, it would make the big, inexplicable shape of lives being lived. Lives went in all ways. Life was a jagged dance of joys and sorrows, up and then down and sometimes in knots or jolts or dizzying rushes over or around again." The "voice" of Molly as our narrator is charming and really draws you right into the story from page one. There are little drawings scattered throughout (mostly of Molly's dog and cat) and at the end a short "notebook" of Molly's thoughts on a few herbs, animals and things like the stars.
Anything you didn’t like about it? Molly's neighbors are a bit overly caricatures of Evil People and some might mistake the fun cover to mean the story is a bit like a travel-adventure when it is all distinctly a non-voyage-tale.
To whom would you recommend this book? (Read-alikes if you can think of them) Readers who love a bit of magic in their stories of friendship and good family relationships will love this.
FTC Disclosure: The Publisher provided me with a copy of this book to provide an honest review. No goody bags, sponsorship, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Anything you didn’t like about it? Molly's neighbors are a bit overly caricatures of Evil People and some might mistake the fun cover to mean the story is a bit like a travel-adventure when it is all distinctly a non-voyage-tale.
To whom would you recommend this book? (Read-alikes if you can think of them) Readers who love a bit of magic in their stories of friendship and good family relationships will love this.
FTC Disclosure: The Publisher provided me with a copy of this book to provide an honest review. No goody bags, sponsorship, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
February 7, 2017
What a treat this import from Australia was! Ten-year-old Molly is at that age where she wants to be like everyone else, not understanding that being "normal," whatever that is, and blending in have their disadvantages. It's just that her mother, who is a herbalist and concocts various potions for what ails you, is so different, and Molly doesn't want to stand out in that way. When her mother accidentally turns into a beautiful tree, Molly is left to her own devices, along with her dog Maude and cat Claudine. Unable to turn to her best friend Ellen with her worries, Molly enlists the help of Pim Wilder, another classmate who is interested in things that are different and doesn't question her story. Together, they come up with some possible solutions to her mother's plight, and along with Ellen, face down a threat from her grouchy neighbors to cut down that tree. The story is told gently and honestly, and readers will believe in the magic that seems to surround her mother. Naturally, at the book's conclusion, Molly realizes that it is fine to be exactly the way she is. Like the stars that shine above Molly and her mother, each person has something worth noticing and something that makes them shine and stand out from all the rest. Why would we ever want to hide that light or change that person to a dimmer wattage? The book has plenty of lessons and realizations for readers and was just the right book for me to read right now.
August 3, 2016
What an absolute gem of a book! Molly would love to be normal like her friend Ellen. Ellen's lunch box has sandwiches and snacks in packs, (Molly's is full of home made snacks) and her house is new, with shiny surfaces and a mum who dresses in normal clothes and does normal things (Molly's house looks like a gypsy caravan, her mum wears floaty clothes and collects herbs and weeds) However, when Molly's mum turns into a tree, it's up to Molly to work out how to turn her back, how to stop the neighbours from cutting her down and how to help Ellen as well. In the end, with the help of Pim, Molly works out not being "normal" isn't so bad after all.
This is a book that celebrates differences, promotes acceptance and demonstrates not everything is as it seems. I love the descriptions of the Mama tree and how Molly's mama continues to look after her even though she is a tree! I love Pim's total acceptance of what Molly tells him and his determination to help her.
Molly and Pim and the Million Stars is a lovely, whimsical story with beautiful fantasy elements interwoven into a story that holds many gems. It truly deserves it's place on the Australian Children's Book Council 2016 Younger Readers short list.
This is a book that celebrates differences, promotes acceptance and demonstrates not everything is as it seems. I love the descriptions of the Mama tree and how Molly's mama continues to look after her even though she is a tree! I love Pim's total acceptance of what Molly tells him and his determination to help her.
Molly and Pim and the Million Stars is a lovely, whimsical story with beautiful fantasy elements interwoven into a story that holds many gems. It truly deserves it's place on the Australian Children's Book Council 2016 Younger Readers short list.
February 27, 2017
I can't wait to share this with so many readers. There are so many gem to ponder.
"Well, I don't believe, but I don't not believe either. And I like not knowing better than knowing."
"Maybe Molly should start her own red notebook, take care of her knowledge. Knowledge was valuable, after all."
Molly's birthday note from her mom: "My dear Little Pump, Here is my advice for my new ten-year old. You who are made of stars. Build a house inside yourself. In it put that sweet little self of yours. Be kind and gentle to it. When there is a storm, don't fight, just surrender to it from inside your little house. Let the wild weather take you where it will. Welcome all the mysteries, uncertainties, and doubts that life will throw at you with all the wildness of a raging storm. And keep exploring. You, my brave little love."
"Molly listened to the night. What should I do now? she wondered. Wondering was very different from thinking. Thinking always looked of answers. It was like folding the question up and putting it in a the box it fitted into best. But wondering was like going for a walk without a destination in mind."
And there are so many more. This book sparkles and shines!
"Well, I don't believe, but I don't not believe either. And I like not knowing better than knowing."
"Maybe Molly should start her own red notebook, take care of her knowledge. Knowledge was valuable, after all."
Molly's birthday note from her mom: "My dear Little Pump, Here is my advice for my new ten-year old. You who are made of stars. Build a house inside yourself. In it put that sweet little self of yours. Be kind and gentle to it. When there is a storm, don't fight, just surrender to it from inside your little house. Let the wild weather take you where it will. Welcome all the mysteries, uncertainties, and doubts that life will throw at you with all the wildness of a raging storm. And keep exploring. You, my brave little love."
"Molly listened to the night. What should I do now? she wondered. Wondering was very different from thinking. Thinking always looked of answers. It was like folding the question up and putting it in a the box it fitted into best. But wondering was like going for a walk without a destination in mind."
And there are so many more. This book sparkles and shines!
January 17, 2017
ARC courtesy publisher via Amazon Vine program
Sweet and Deep and Wondrous
Middle school can be tough, whether or not you are a bookworm and a daydreamer -- and sometimes it is especially tough if you are.
In Molly and Pim and the Millions of Stars, author Martine Murray wraps her readers in a story about a girl who is learning to find her way in a world that can be challenging and wondrous. Murray conveys Molly's journey with empathy, and empowers her with the ability to come up with ways to understand the world around her, and to make peace with her ways of thinking and doing and seeing.
Molly is a credibly strong character with doubts and dreams, and while the story arc is rather dreamy at times, it has a backbone that likely will prove satisfying to target readers. This is a book my sixth-grade self would have read and reread so many times that the spine would've cracked from wear.
Here's a hint of storyteller Murray at work. "Thinking always looked for answers," Molly notes. "But wondering was like going for a walk without a destination in mind."
Sweet and Deep and Wondrous
Middle school can be tough, whether or not you are a bookworm and a daydreamer -- and sometimes it is especially tough if you are.
In Molly and Pim and the Millions of Stars, author Martine Murray wraps her readers in a story about a girl who is learning to find her way in a world that can be challenging and wondrous. Murray conveys Molly's journey with empathy, and empowers her with the ability to come up with ways to understand the world around her, and to make peace with her ways of thinking and doing and seeing.
Molly is a credibly strong character with doubts and dreams, and while the story arc is rather dreamy at times, it has a backbone that likely will prove satisfying to target readers. This is a book my sixth-grade self would have read and reread so many times that the spine would've cracked from wear.
Here's a hint of storyteller Murray at work. "Thinking always looked for answers," Molly notes. "But wondering was like going for a walk without a destination in mind."
March 22, 2017
I would give this more than 5 stars if I could. This has become my favorite book to date, seriously. The way this story was told was amazing. It felt so fresh and so calmly reflective. It's magical and heartfelt. The way the book flowed was wonderful as well. The entire time I felt so light and stuffs.
I just let go a lot of emotional baggage recently and it was really cool to see Molly let some things go while I was letting things go as well. The ending left me with a happy feeling and a feeling of being free to be me.
I don't know if you'll actually read this Miss Martine Murray, but thank you so much for this book. It's truly a work of art.
I just let go a lot of emotional baggage recently and it was really cool to see Molly let some things go while I was letting things go as well. The ending left me with a happy feeling and a feeling of being free to be me.
I don't know if you'll actually read this Miss Martine Murray, but thank you so much for this book. It's truly a work of art.
August 19, 2016
Oh my god SO cute. Shortlisted for the CBCA Awards but unfortunately not a winner. Boo.
Molly wishes her mum was normal. She's very self concious about her lunches consisting of fresh fruit instead of packaged museli bars. While her mother should be baking and ironing, instead she roams the woods looking for herbs to use in her potions. When a potion gas unexpected results, Molly finds herself all alone - except for a dog, a cat, and Pim the strange boy at school - she realises how much she loves her mother's unusual qualities, and must embrace them to get her back.
Molly wishes her mum was normal. She's very self concious about her lunches consisting of fresh fruit instead of packaged museli bars. While her mother should be baking and ironing, instead she roams the woods looking for herbs to use in her potions. When a potion gas unexpected results, Molly finds herself all alone - except for a dog, a cat, and Pim the strange boy at school - she realises how much she loves her mother's unusual qualities, and must embrace them to get her back.
February 2, 2017
This book was great! Molly's adventures sound scary and fun at the same time.
August 25, 2023
Molly is a girl who wishes her life was more normal. She doesn't cry and she has a best friend, Ellen, who has a normal house and a normal mum. Ellen's mum gives her muesli bars in plastic wrapping, while Molly's mother makes potions out of herbs.
At school, there is a boy who has Molly intrigued. His name is Pim. Whenever he looks at things, like ants, he is absorbed and filled with simple wonder. He's a different kind of boy.
Molly and her mother have terrible neighbours who are always complaining. Mr and Mrs Grimshaw growl about their rooster being too noisy. They threatened to chop his head off. Molly's mother tells her not to be worried. They need a tree between their houses' fences so Grimshaws can't see into their yard. That's when her mother starts working on a potion.
They plant the acorn seed that has been soaking in the potion. Molly's mum drinks some of the potion and she becomes the tree. How can Molly ever have a normal life if her mother is a tree? How can she tell Ellen that she's on her own and has to look after herself? She feels so alone and not normal.
Then Pim becomes interesting. She tells him her secret. He finds Molly interesting. He loves her gypsy-style house, her mother's potion, her dog, and The Gentleman (her rooster). He also offers to help her find a way to bring her mother back.
The Grimshaw's complain about the tree. Molly's Mama tree is being threatened by them. They will cut off the branches overhanging their fence. Molly is horrified. 'Would you like someone to cut off your arms?' she yells at Mrs Grimshaw.
Pim and Molly have to find a way to stop Grimshaws and save the Mama tree. They only have three days to do it.
Meanwhile, Pim suggests Molly go back to school. When he dinks her on his bike she likes it. She finds out that her best friend Ellen has been sick. Molly is upset about Ellen and goes to visit her. Molly decides to make some healing oil for Ellen. She's seen her mother make it, so she goes to her mother's notes and makes it.
Molly learns that making potions isn't a bad thing. She learns who her true friends are. She discovers that being alone is sad. When she dances around the tree, dancing with her Mama tree, the way Pim suggests, she feels better.
When Grimshaw arrives at the house with a revving chainsaw, Molly begins to cry. Her friends come to help her. Ellen and Pim are there for Molly. They don't mind that she's different. That's when the magic happens.
I loved everything about this book. It kept surprising me. I think that Martine Murray has written a heartfelt book, with joy and friendship mixed with sorrow and confusion. It's a brilliant read.
At school, there is a boy who has Molly intrigued. His name is Pim. Whenever he looks at things, like ants, he is absorbed and filled with simple wonder. He's a different kind of boy.
Molly and her mother have terrible neighbours who are always complaining. Mr and Mrs Grimshaw growl about their rooster being too noisy. They threatened to chop his head off. Molly's mother tells her not to be worried. They need a tree between their houses' fences so Grimshaws can't see into their yard. That's when her mother starts working on a potion.
They plant the acorn seed that has been soaking in the potion. Molly's mum drinks some of the potion and she becomes the tree. How can Molly ever have a normal life if her mother is a tree? How can she tell Ellen that she's on her own and has to look after herself? She feels so alone and not normal.
Then Pim becomes interesting. She tells him her secret. He finds Molly interesting. He loves her gypsy-style house, her mother's potion, her dog, and The Gentleman (her rooster). He also offers to help her find a way to bring her mother back.
The Grimshaw's complain about the tree. Molly's Mama tree is being threatened by them. They will cut off the branches overhanging their fence. Molly is horrified. 'Would you like someone to cut off your arms?' she yells at Mrs Grimshaw.
Pim and Molly have to find a way to stop Grimshaws and save the Mama tree. They only have three days to do it.
Meanwhile, Pim suggests Molly go back to school. When he dinks her on his bike she likes it. She finds out that her best friend Ellen has been sick. Molly is upset about Ellen and goes to visit her. Molly decides to make some healing oil for Ellen. She's seen her mother make it, so she goes to her mother's notes and makes it.
Molly learns that making potions isn't a bad thing. She learns who her true friends are. She discovers that being alone is sad. When she dances around the tree, dancing with her Mama tree, the way Pim suggests, she feels better.
When Grimshaw arrives at the house with a revving chainsaw, Molly begins to cry. Her friends come to help her. Ellen and Pim are there for Molly. They don't mind that she's different. That's when the magic happens.
I loved everything about this book. It kept surprising me. I think that Martine Murray has written a heartfelt book, with joy and friendship mixed with sorrow and confusion. It's a brilliant read.
May 20, 2017
Murray, Martine Molly & Pim and the Millions of Stars, 181 pgs. Alfred A. Knopf, 2017. $16.99. Language: G (0 "swears"); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG.
Molly is embarrassed that her mother is nothing like normal mothers; she wears crazy clothes, spends her time gathering herbs and flowers, and regularly creates a variety of potions from her findings. Molly tries to keep her mother's eccentricities from the kids at school, but one day her mom accidentally turns herself into a tree and Molly needs help. She ends up confiding in a boy who is a little odd himself--Pim--and finds a friend she did not expect. As she seeks a solution to bring her mother back, Molly realizes the need to be true to herself and comes to understand that being normal is not for everyone!
I really enjoyed this fun and magical story for upper elementary and middle readers. The magic implicit in the story is great in that it seems to come from a realistic place; the book reads more as realistic fiction rather than fantasy. It has a simple coming-of-age story and a great message about being original and true to yourself. The PG violence rating is due to a conflict that occurs between the kids and some grumpy neighbors and a short physical fight actually ensues. The back of the book includes Molly's own herb notebook with explanations about some of her favorite herbs and flowers.
EL, MS--ADVISABLE. Reviewer: TC
http://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2017/...
Molly is embarrassed that her mother is nothing like normal mothers; she wears crazy clothes, spends her time gathering herbs and flowers, and regularly creates a variety of potions from her findings. Molly tries to keep her mother's eccentricities from the kids at school, but one day her mom accidentally turns herself into a tree and Molly needs help. She ends up confiding in a boy who is a little odd himself--Pim--and finds a friend she did not expect. As she seeks a solution to bring her mother back, Molly realizes the need to be true to herself and comes to understand that being normal is not for everyone!
I really enjoyed this fun and magical story for upper elementary and middle readers. The magic implicit in the story is great in that it seems to come from a realistic place; the book reads more as realistic fiction rather than fantasy. It has a simple coming-of-age story and a great message about being original and true to yourself. The PG violence rating is due to a conflict that occurs between the kids and some grumpy neighbors and a short physical fight actually ensues. The back of the book includes Molly's own herb notebook with explanations about some of her favorite herbs and flowers.
EL, MS--ADVISABLE. Reviewer: TC
http://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2017/...
March 15, 2018
“I love acorns. I have always loved them. Because they come from oak trees and because they wear hats. No other seeds that I know of wear hats.”
“I like to see myself as a warrior and a healer all at once. Best to be brave and wise; otherwise, courage can become just foolish and you end up being a show-off.”
This was a really enjoyable novel for young readers. Molly’s character was determined, smart, independent and willing to learn and ask for help. Her mom’s creativity and knowledge were so interesting, and the settings around their home and neighborhood were charming. The plot was different and compelling, and contained: an absent father, a strong single mom, lots of interesting natural/herbal remedies, learning about friendship ups and downs, some fantastical elements, and a first crush. All handled really deftly and sweetly by Martine Murray. Would be a great read for a kid who loves nature or magic or adventures 👍
“I like to see myself as a warrior and a healer all at once. Best to be brave and wise; otherwise, courage can become just foolish and you end up being a show-off.”
This was a really enjoyable novel for young readers. Molly’s character was determined, smart, independent and willing to learn and ask for help. Her mom’s creativity and knowledge were so interesting, and the settings around their home and neighborhood were charming. The plot was different and compelling, and contained: an absent father, a strong single mom, lots of interesting natural/herbal remedies, learning about friendship ups and downs, some fantastical elements, and a first crush. All handled really deftly and sweetly by Martine Murray. Would be a great read for a kid who loves nature or magic or adventures 👍
April 20, 2018
Delightful, sweet story of Molly, who wishes to be in a normal family, like her best friend, Ellen. Molly's mom gathers herbs and makes mysterious potions, her father disappeared in Cuba and her older brothers left to find him. They ride a bike to school and have pets that include a rooster. She has a fascination with a free-spirited boy at school, Pim, for his lack of concern of what others may think of him. One of her mother's potions has an extreme consequence and Molly learns a lot about her friendships and her relationship with her mother. This was a delightful book. I enjoyed the author's style of writing and the cute doodle-like illustrations. Since this book is Australian, there may be some things U.S. readers will not recognize, but would be great for learning common things in another country.
October 10, 2017
This is a small but enchanting book about a girl named Molly whose mother accidentally changes herself into a tree. Molly is left alone to fend for herself, but discovers that she has more friends than she realised.
I loved the character of Molly, who thought she just wanted to be ordinary but discovers that being herself is better. I also loved her fey and eccentric mother, who wanders the garden and woods looking for ingredients for magical potions, and Molly’s two friends, Ellen (whose normal life with a normal family is envied by Molly) and Pim (who is anything but normal). Each character is deftly and vividly drawn, and there is a charming mix of humour, whimsy and poignancy. Glorious.
I loved the character of Molly, who thought she just wanted to be ordinary but discovers that being herself is better. I also loved her fey and eccentric mother, who wanders the garden and woods looking for ingredients for magical potions, and Molly’s two friends, Ellen (whose normal life with a normal family is envied by Molly) and Pim (who is anything but normal). Each character is deftly and vividly drawn, and there is a charming mix of humour, whimsy and poignancy. Glorious.
March 18, 2017
Molly has an odd mother, who goes foraging in the forest for useful plants, but Molly would rather have a family like her best friend Emily, who is normal. Simple yet lovely language as Molly faces a dreadful problem, and maybe the strange boy Pim can listen understandingly and help. The story could easily be a fairytale with its strange elements (Molly's mom accidentally turns into a tree!) and unpleasant neighbors to be vanquished and a moral (it's okay to be different). Pencil drawings of plants and their pet dog, cat and rooster are sprinkled throughout. Give this to a thoughtful 2-4th grader who likes to wonder about things.
May 30, 2017
Nice coming of age story about a girl with a hippie herbalist mother who longs to belong to a "normal" family, and have different hair as well. But then when her mother turns into a tree, she learns that some kids feel stifled within such a family and want to be like her. I liked the characters and the storyline. Favorite line:
"Sometimes, she told herself, you can't figure things out, you just have to live them out." Wonderful, wise words for kids who are struggling with their realities.
My only negative was the cover choice - I do not think kids will gravitate towards it, unfortunately. The paperback cover is much nicer, but even that is not as inviting as it could have been.
"Sometimes, she told herself, you can't figure things out, you just have to live them out." Wonderful, wise words for kids who are struggling with their realities.
My only negative was the cover choice - I do not think kids will gravitate towards it, unfortunately. The paperback cover is much nicer, but even that is not as inviting as it could have been.
February 9, 2017
I had no desire of reading this but I'm so glad I did. It was immediately engaging. This would make for a great read-aloud reminiscent of The Secret Garden. It celebrates family, friendship, and individuality.
Molly's mother has accidentally turned herself into a tree. She feels she can't turn to her best friend for help because she's too practical and might not believe Molly. The only person she can turn to seems to be the odd boy in school- Pim. Together, they'll have to find the right magic to make turn everything back to normal. But is normal something Molly wants?
Nature and pet lovers will enjoy this whimsical tale from Australia!
Molly's mother has accidentally turned herself into a tree. She feels she can't turn to her best friend for help because she's too practical and might not believe Molly. The only person she can turn to seems to be the odd boy in school- Pim. Together, they'll have to find the right magic to make turn everything back to normal. But is normal something Molly wants?
Nature and pet lovers will enjoy this whimsical tale from Australia!
July 13, 2018
I will admit that about a third of the way through this book I was thinking the main plot was plain stupid (not that I think kids will; I am, after all, an adult reading children's literature). I continued reading and have to say that I truly love this book and will be putting it into the hands of every kid I can. The message of hope and acceptance of yourself and others is just what I needed and what I think every child does as well. Bravo!!
September 15, 2024
Audiobook from the library 🎧
I read this in a day, almost in one sitting; listening to it as I cleaned on a Sunday morning.
It's a very easy read which has very cute morals throughout it but it didn't blow me away or keep me hooked (despite reading it in a day - that was more to do with the length and the amount of time I could dedicate to listening to it).
Overall, glad I tried it but I won't remember it for long.
I read this in a day, almost in one sitting; listening to it as I cleaned on a Sunday morning.
It's a very easy read which has very cute morals throughout it but it didn't blow me away or keep me hooked (despite reading it in a day - that was more to do with the length and the amount of time I could dedicate to listening to it).
Overall, glad I tried it but I won't remember it for long.
February 23, 2017
Molly's family is different f and all that Molly has ever wanted was to be like everyone else. Normal. One day,a mistake turns her mother in to a tree and the journey to turn her mother back, teaches her that being different is okay. Being has its place. This is book short, but filled with a magical punch.
November 15, 2018
A sweet book
This author really writes some good honest fiction for kids
Molly has a witchy your mum who does spells
And mum gets turned into a tree
She seeks help from Pim and Ella to save the tree from the neighbour
Good honest message of friendship - that opposite personalities and lives can still be good friends
Liked it a lot
Good language
This author really writes some good honest fiction for kids
Molly has a witchy your mum who does spells
And mum gets turned into a tree
She seeks help from Pim and Ella to save the tree from the neighbour
Good honest message of friendship - that opposite personalities and lives can still be good friends
Liked it a lot
Good language
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2022
Beautifully written and unique storyline of a mum who turns into a tree. Unfortunatly it didn't grab the interest of my children until the final couple of chapters of the book.
As an adult reader I appreciated the book more and followed better the turmoil which Molly experienced throughout the story.
As an adult reader I appreciated the book more and followed better the turmoil which Molly experienced throughout the story.
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