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The Lost Frost Girl
From debut author Amy Wilson comes a story brimming with heart about a normal girl who discovers that she is really Jack Frost’s daughter—with winter powers of her very own. The Lost Frost Girl is an enchanting modern-day fairy tale about family, friendship, and the magic of embracing who you are meant to be.
Owl has the kind of mom who would name her Owl, a dad she’s never met, and a boy who gives her strange looks at school—but Owl has come to accept that this is as normal as her life is going to get.
Until Owl finds out that she is Jack Frost’s daughter. Determined to meet him, Owl delves into Jack’s wonderful world of winter and magic—the kind of place she thought only existed in fairy tales. And as she notices frost patterns appearing on her skin and her tears turning to ice, Owl starts to wonder if being Jack Frost’s daughter means that she has winter powers of her very own.
Owl has the kind of mom who would name her Owl, a dad she’s never met, and a boy who gives her strange looks at school—but Owl has come to accept that this is as normal as her life is going to get.
Until Owl finds out that she is Jack Frost’s daughter. Determined to meet him, Owl delves into Jack’s wonderful world of winter and magic—the kind of place she thought only existed in fairy tales. And as she notices frost patterns appearing on her skin and her tears turning to ice, Owl starts to wonder if being Jack Frost’s daughter means that she has winter powers of her very own.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published January 26, 2017
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3077 people want to read
About the author
Amy Wilson
9 books103 followersAmy Wilson has a background in journalism and lives in Bristol with her young family. She is a graduate of the Bath Spa MA in Creative Writing and has many owls in her house, from drawer handles to cushions. She is still waiting for them to speak to her...
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June 8, 2023I haven't read this - but I heard the opening chapters as a teacher at the Bristol Children's Hospital read them to my daughter this morning. (She decided last night that breathing was for losers - so here we are again after a day on the lam.)
The author is a Bristolean too!
Anyway - three cheers for fantasy books in hospital. I was introduced to The Darkness That Comes Before in a Bristol children's ward many years ago!
It sounded pretty good - hopefully we won't be here long enough to finish it. Time will tell.
Join my 3-emails-a-year newsletter #prizes
.
The author is a Bristolean too!
Anyway - three cheers for fantasy books in hospital. I was introduced to The Darkness That Comes Before in a Bristol children's ward many years ago!
It sounded pretty good - hopefully we won't be here long enough to finish it. Time will tell.
Join my 3-emails-a-year newsletter #prizes
.
June 24, 2017
Technically a middlegrade, but with definite crossover appeal, A Girl Called Owl is the story of a girl who really wants to know who her father is, and when she finally finds him he's not at all what she expected or wanted.
This whimsical, magical story is very almost fairytale, but not quite. It somehow has a grounded, real world feeling to it, despite the 'mythical' characters that feature in the adventure. This is probably down to the very real family problems of Owl and her best friend. I really enjoyed the characters, and although Owl can be downright infuriating, it's such a fun story that I think people of all ages can enjoy.
This whimsical, magical story is very almost fairytale, but not quite. It somehow has a grounded, real world feeling to it, despite the 'mythical' characters that feature in the adventure. This is probably down to the very real family problems of Owl and her best friend. I really enjoyed the characters, and although Owl can be downright infuriating, it's such a fun story that I think people of all ages can enjoy.
March 15, 2018
I was very kindly sent a copy of A Girl Called Owl (ARC) in exchange for an honest review! Overall: 3.5 out of 5 stars!
This debut Middle-Grade novel was one that generally kept me interested in reading to the finish, however, I felt that there was something a little bit missing and I'm not really sure what. It was a good read with good pacing, the world-building between the two worlds (Our world/fantasy world) was written well. The storyline follows a young girl called Owl who dreams of finding more out about her father. All she ever wanted was a family that was complete. She goes to a local school and has a close friend called Mallory. When a new boy starts, this kick-starts a chain of events that causes Owl to question everything her Mother told her as a child, the adventure to find her father starts to unravel. I liked Owl and the discovery of her powers as well as the ending, heartwarming and well concluded. Personally, I feel since I am a little bit older than the targeted age range was the reason why I felt a lack of connection towards Owl. It was a lovely adventure and am looking forward to reviewing Amy's latest novel!
This debut Middle-Grade novel was one that generally kept me interested in reading to the finish, however, I felt that there was something a little bit missing and I'm not really sure what. It was a good read with good pacing, the world-building between the two worlds (Our world/fantasy world) was written well. The storyline follows a young girl called Owl who dreams of finding more out about her father. All she ever wanted was a family that was complete. She goes to a local school and has a close friend called Mallory. When a new boy starts, this kick-starts a chain of events that causes Owl to question everything her Mother told her as a child, the adventure to find her father starts to unravel. I liked Owl and the discovery of her powers as well as the ending, heartwarming and well concluded. Personally, I feel since I am a little bit older than the targeted age range was the reason why I felt a lack of connection towards Owl. It was a lovely adventure and am looking forward to reviewing Amy's latest novel!
March 18, 2021
Wow! Amy Wilson writes stories that feel like loved classic fairytales! She is a master at this. This book is no exception-it was amazing! This is a modern-day fairytale about Jack Frost’s daughter. Owl has the kind of mom who would name her Owl, no dad, a best friend, & a strange new boy at school that gives her strange looks-she’s a normal girl. Until 1 day she realizes the “fairytales” her mom told her when she was younger & asked about who her dad was-is all true. Her dad is Jack Frost. Then she starts showing icy powers of her own. On the journey to know more about Jack she gets more than she ever bargained for, & danger she doesn’t understand. This was so good y’all! I loved every second! I started on page 50 some yesterday& then read the rest. Couldn’t put it down. Such a fascinating world-the real world laced w/the elements & fae. Even Owl’s problems were a mix of normal girl problems & magical girl problems-perfect! The author has a beautiful writing style, & this was so atmospheric w/vivid details & descriptions-I could imagine everything perfectly, & I felt cold reading it lol This is a magical story w/well known folktale legends & some amazing made up ones, but real life issues are also beautifully woven in-family, friendship, loyalty, bravery, betrayal, & learning as we go..an amazing, magical adventure w/so much heart. Highly recommend! Can’t wait to start the 2nd book tonight! Absolutely STUNNING cover by Helen Crawford-White. Gorgeous!💜
October 14, 2017
Right now, I'm kinda wishing my mom named me Owl.
December 23, 2016
I absolutely adored this book! It was everything I wanted from a story - magical, mythical, fantastical but based in reality. I really loved the elements of bringing in natural characters and human characters. This book is one I will definitely read over and over at winter time.
November 11, 2017
Really disappointing. It has a wonderful premise, but it is overflowing with problems. I'll be back with specifics, it's too early in the morning to be analytical. Ha ha.
March 24, 2017
A Girl Called Owl was a cute story that did not have a whole lot of depth. Thematically, it seemed like it would be more of a young adult novel, but in reality, felt much more like a middle grade novel. This was mostly due to the way the book was written as well as the characters and story itself.
The writing was quite simplistic, which in itself isn't necessarily a bad thing. It actually suited the style in which the story was told, with a linear plot and younger characters. It did feel like the book was a bit disjointed at times- in between chapters with POV from Owl, there were these fairy-tale like excerpts that I felt didn't mesh well with the rest of the novel as they were written with a more formal tone that didn't flow with Owl's simplistic POV.
The main character Owl was not particularly mature, but I felt that was not terrible in this particular novel. She seemed to make many stupid decisions despite several other characters giving her advice, but because this book was a combination of portal fantasy and coming-of-age, these decisions were somewhat more acceptable (although I must admit, they didn't make Owl particularly likeable).
I would be more inclined to recommend this novel to younger readers. Personally, I read a lot of epic fantasy targeted at adults, and that made it a bit more difficult to get into this relatively simplistic read. Middle grade level readers may find it easier to immerse themselves into this world.
Ratings
Overall: 4/10
Plot: 2/5
Writing: 3/5
World Building: 2/5
Characters: 2.5/5
Cover: 3/5
The writing was quite simplistic, which in itself isn't necessarily a bad thing. It actually suited the style in which the story was told, with a linear plot and younger characters. It did feel like the book was a bit disjointed at times- in between chapters with POV from Owl, there were these fairy-tale like excerpts that I felt didn't mesh well with the rest of the novel as they were written with a more formal tone that didn't flow with Owl's simplistic POV.
The main character Owl was not particularly mature, but I felt that was not terrible in this particular novel. She seemed to make many stupid decisions despite several other characters giving her advice, but because this book was a combination of portal fantasy and coming-of-age, these decisions were somewhat more acceptable (although I must admit, they didn't make Owl particularly likeable).
I would be more inclined to recommend this novel to younger readers. Personally, I read a lot of epic fantasy targeted at adults, and that made it a bit more difficult to get into this relatively simplistic read. Middle grade level readers may find it easier to immerse themselves into this world.
Ratings
Overall: 4/10
Plot: 2/5
Writing: 3/5
World Building: 2/5
Characters: 2.5/5
Cover: 3/5
February 9, 2017
I actually happen to know the author of this book and have seen the long journey she went through to get her first book published And I'm so pleased for her that it's happened!
Call me biased but I loved this book.
Amy has a beautiful writing style and this book is full of stunning images and vivid descriptions.
There are some well known characters from folk tales as well as some new creations. They all live in the Fae court which was one of my favourite parts.
But as magical as this story is, it's also about real, everyday issues.
Family. Friends. Heartbreak. Betrayal. Love. Growing up.
It may've been written for young girls but this older girl loved it!
Call me biased but I loved this book.
Amy has a beautiful writing style and this book is full of stunning images and vivid descriptions.
There are some well known characters from folk tales as well as some new creations. They all live in the Fae court which was one of my favourite parts.
But as magical as this story is, it's also about real, everyday issues.
Family. Friends. Heartbreak. Betrayal. Love. Growing up.
It may've been written for young girls but this older girl loved it!
March 20, 2021
I am so so glad I picked up this book. I was umming and ahhing about it for quite some time but decided to give it a shot.
Amy Wilson completely drew me in with her frozen world full of elementals who seem to have taken on personas very similar to humans in both positive and negative ways. This tale is full of mystery and visual beauty that is easy and clear to visualise. I'd say this is similar to a classic fairy tale with a modern day twist. Would recommend to anyone who likes to be mentally taken to other worlds :D
Amy Wilson completely drew me in with her frozen world full of elementals who seem to have taken on personas very similar to humans in both positive and negative ways. This tale is full of mystery and visual beauty that is easy and clear to visualise. I'd say this is similar to a classic fairy tale with a modern day twist. Would recommend to anyone who likes to be mentally taken to other worlds :D
July 15, 2018
Very simply put, this is the story of a girl named Owl, who has always wanted to find her father and know who he is, except when she finally does, it is nothing like she expected.
That was it simply put...but there was nothing simple about this story. It was a well structured plot with interesting secondary plot lines that keep you invested in the characters. Filled with fairytale creatures, magical realms and wonderful scenery, it transports you (along with Owl and her friends) to different worlds as she discovers that her father is Jack Frost.
However, I felt it was completely unbelievable when Owl is completely taken aback by the fact that her new friend, Avery, has betrayed her and was spying on her. I mean, he mentions at the beginning that he represents Autumn, and then she "overhears" the Earl of October, also known as Autumn, plot against her father, and she doesn't figure it out? Or at least, get suspicious?
It was an OK read, but not one I'd recommend to anyone.
That was it simply put...but there was nothing simple about this story. It was a well structured plot with interesting secondary plot lines that keep you invested in the characters. Filled with fairytale creatures, magical realms and wonderful scenery, it transports you (along with Owl and her friends) to different worlds as she discovers that her father is Jack Frost.
However, I felt it was completely unbelievable when Owl is completely taken aback by the fact that her new friend, Avery, has betrayed her and was spying on her. I mean, he mentions at the beginning that he represents Autumn, and then she "overhears" the Earl of October, also known as Autumn, plot against her father, and she doesn't figure it out? Or at least, get suspicious?
It was an OK read, but not one I'd recommend to anyone.
November 7, 2017
Pros-
A cute, well-written, entertaining story perfect for tween audiences looking for a fantasy read. The story is original and interesting. It's a nice light read for older audiences as well. I love the name "Owl" and thought the story had some nice twists.
Cons-
Though the book is original as a whole, there are elements of the story similar to other fairy tales and children's stories.
I would rate it 4.6-4.7
My copy of this book was obtained from a Goodreads giveaway.
A cute, well-written, entertaining story perfect for tween audiences looking for a fantasy read. The story is original and interesting. It's a nice light read for older audiences as well. I love the name "Owl" and thought the story had some nice twists.
Cons-
Though the book is original as a whole, there are elements of the story similar to other fairy tales and children's stories.
I would rate it 4.6-4.7
My copy of this book was obtained from a Goodreads giveaway.
January 15, 2023
A lovely fairytale about frost and friendship
December 9, 2017
Originally posted on Once Upon a Bookcase.
A Girl Called Owl by Amy Wilson seemed like a perfect Wintery, Christmassy read for this time of year; the story of Jack Frost's daughter. Unfortunately, I was quite disappointed.
A Girl Called Owl is more upper middle grade, so where I thought it would feel like a children's book, full of that wonderful magical, enchanting feeling you get with reading some children's books (like A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig), it was missing from this one. And though it's a re-imagining of the Jack Frost legend - which, in my mind, is as intrinsically linked to Christmas as Winter - there is nothing of Christmas. This feels more like a younger version of a YA book about fae, though they are called fay in this - an introduction to fae, maybe. And that's one of the main reasons I wasn't a fan. There is a difference between what I call "children's books" - the kind an adult would read with a child - and books for children who are past that stage. I can handle children's books, because they appeal to my sense of wonder. But middle grade, more often than not, is too young for me.
And, because it's young (or at least that's my assumption), not a huge amount happens. I could easily summarise the entire book in a sentence, but won't because of spoilers. What I can tell you is that Owl discovers she is Jack Frost's daughter soon after frost patterns appear on her skin, and soon after, she can freeze a whole room without intending, too. All the while, there's a plot against her father by other seasonal figures that Owl finds out about. It sounds exciting, like there's probably a lot going on, but there really isn't, and it's so slow. Plus the characters believe in the magical so easily, hardly questioning it at all, or freaking out. So many questions aren't answered, or explained well enough. It was such a let down.
There's so much potential in writing a book about Jack Frost, but for me, A Girl Called Owl just didn't reach it. Sadly, it's just not a believable story. A real disappointment.
Thank you to Macmillan Children's Books via NetGalley for the eProof.
A Girl Called Owl by Amy Wilson seemed like a perfect Wintery, Christmassy read for this time of year; the story of Jack Frost's daughter. Unfortunately, I was quite disappointed.
A Girl Called Owl is more upper middle grade, so where I thought it would feel like a children's book, full of that wonderful magical, enchanting feeling you get with reading some children's books (like A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig), it was missing from this one. And though it's a re-imagining of the Jack Frost legend - which, in my mind, is as intrinsically linked to Christmas as Winter - there is nothing of Christmas. This feels more like a younger version of a YA book about fae, though they are called fay in this - an introduction to fae, maybe. And that's one of the main reasons I wasn't a fan. There is a difference between what I call "children's books" - the kind an adult would read with a child - and books for children who are past that stage. I can handle children's books, because they appeal to my sense of wonder. But middle grade, more often than not, is too young for me.
And, because it's young (or at least that's my assumption), not a huge amount happens. I could easily summarise the entire book in a sentence, but won't because of spoilers. What I can tell you is that Owl discovers she is Jack Frost's daughter soon after frost patterns appear on her skin, and soon after, she can freeze a whole room without intending, too. All the while, there's a plot against her father by other seasonal figures that Owl finds out about. It sounds exciting, like there's probably a lot going on, but there really isn't, and it's so slow. Plus the characters believe in the magical so easily, hardly questioning it at all, or freaking out. So many questions aren't answered, or explained well enough. It was such a let down.
There's so much potential in writing a book about Jack Frost, but for me, A Girl Called Owl just didn't reach it. Sadly, it's just not a believable story. A real disappointment.
Thank you to Macmillan Children's Books via NetGalley for the eProof.
February 23, 2021
Nothing in Owl's life has been normal. She's never met her dad, a boy at her school has been giving her weird looks, and she has a mom who would name her something unique like Owl. She's come to terms with this not-so-normal lifestyle.
That is until she finds out the legendary being Jack Frost is her father. Serious about meeting him, she journeys into Jack's world of magic and winter, a place she only heard about in fairy tales. As she get closer to finding him, she starts to notice frost forming on her skin and her own tears are turning to ice, Owl begins to question if being the daughter of Jack Frost means that she too may have winter powers of her own.
I loved Owl's determination to find the truth in who she is and who her father is. She never once backed down and what's more is that had friends that were there to back her up. Good read!
Reviewed by Skye Kordistos, Youth and School Services Librarian, Vernon Area Public Library
That is until she finds out the legendary being Jack Frost is her father. Serious about meeting him, she journeys into Jack's world of magic and winter, a place she only heard about in fairy tales. As she get closer to finding him, she starts to notice frost forming on her skin and her own tears are turning to ice, Owl begins to question if being the daughter of Jack Frost means that she too may have winter powers of her own.
I loved Owl's determination to find the truth in who she is and who her father is. She never once backed down and what's more is that had friends that were there to back her up. Good read!
Reviewed by Skye Kordistos, Youth and School Services Librarian, Vernon Area Public Library
August 8, 2020
Maybe I don't understand what middle grade is suppose to be. I might be expecting too much.
I liked it at first, but then it just became so flimsy and generic, with nothing really making sense. I completely lost interest.
It seemed silly most of the time, and other than some of the bigger themes (like wanting to belong, find and keep your family), none of it seemed right for middle grade.
I liked it at first, but then it just became so flimsy and generic, with nothing really making sense. I completely lost interest.
It seemed silly most of the time, and other than some of the bigger themes (like wanting to belong, find and keep your family), none of it seemed right for middle grade.
December 6, 2017
[DNF at 43%]
October 14, 2016
Thank you NetGalley and A.J.Wills for an advanced copy of this book for a fair and honest review.
This book has bags of potential. I liked the characters in this book and it was nice to have some light relief from everything that is happening in the world at the moment.
Imagine if your parents called you Owl? Imagine after that your favourite animal is an Owl, and you love the winter and feel draw to it like a magnet.
Owl mum is a artist woman who is always away with the fairies and lives in a different world to everyone else. So far away from everyone else that she decides to call her only daughter Owl. Owl is a teenage girl trying to get answers about who she is and who her dad is. All her mum does is tell her stories and skirt around the subject. Owl is fed up with her mum not telling her the truth and as strange events start to happen to her she is even more determined then ever to find out who he is. When her mum reveals that he is in fact Jack Frost events start happening really fast as Owl try's to come to terms with the new changes in her body and to find her father to get answers to question that her mum can't answer.
A new boy has arrived at Owls school and he is very interested in Owl and seems to know all about her and her special powers.
Owls best friend needs her more than ever as her parents are going through a Devore and she feels stuck in the middle of it all. Throwing herself into Owl's dramas seems a good idea and at least distracts her from everything else that is going on.
Who is Owls father? What are these magical powers she seems to have gained? Are they linked to her dad? What will happen when owl enters the magical world of winter for the first time?
A glittering debut story filled with friendship, family, finding out who you are, adventure and magic. A very sweet read.
I did find it a tad annoying that the pages didn't seem to fit my kindle properly when it was a kindle book. The lines seemed jumbled and a little all over the place. I didn't like how when it started telling the story bits in the frost world that it would stop mid sentence and that there was a picture page between the writing pages where it shouldn't be and some of the spelling punctuation needs looking at.
But I did quite like this story. I liked the characters and I think it's a good start to what feels like to me could be a promising series of books. Thank you again for letting me read this.
This book has bags of potential. I liked the characters in this book and it was nice to have some light relief from everything that is happening in the world at the moment.
Imagine if your parents called you Owl? Imagine after that your favourite animal is an Owl, and you love the winter and feel draw to it like a magnet.
Owl mum is a artist woman who is always away with the fairies and lives in a different world to everyone else. So far away from everyone else that she decides to call her only daughter Owl. Owl is a teenage girl trying to get answers about who she is and who her dad is. All her mum does is tell her stories and skirt around the subject. Owl is fed up with her mum not telling her the truth and as strange events start to happen to her she is even more determined then ever to find out who he is. When her mum reveals that he is in fact Jack Frost events start happening really fast as Owl try's to come to terms with the new changes in her body and to find her father to get answers to question that her mum can't answer.
A new boy has arrived at Owls school and he is very interested in Owl and seems to know all about her and her special powers.
Owls best friend needs her more than ever as her parents are going through a Devore and she feels stuck in the middle of it all. Throwing herself into Owl's dramas seems a good idea and at least distracts her from everything else that is going on.
Who is Owls father? What are these magical powers she seems to have gained? Are they linked to her dad? What will happen when owl enters the magical world of winter for the first time?
A glittering debut story filled with friendship, family, finding out who you are, adventure and magic. A very sweet read.
I did find it a tad annoying that the pages didn't seem to fit my kindle properly when it was a kindle book. The lines seemed jumbled and a little all over the place. I didn't like how when it started telling the story bits in the frost world that it would stop mid sentence and that there was a picture page between the writing pages where it shouldn't be and some of the spelling punctuation needs looking at.
But I did quite like this story. I liked the characters and I think it's a good start to what feels like to me could be a promising series of books. Thank you again for letting me read this.
November 24, 2016
This was a charming read that captivated both my heart and imagination. A story of magic, myth and self-discovery, this was a truly delightful book. I can’t wait to read more from this author - and I would love to see Owl’s story continue.
Owl has always been told she is special, but only when she starts creating icicles — and freezing her science homework — does she begin to understand just how special she is. She’s never known her dad, and now evidence points Owl toward a man of myth and legend. But could such a man ever be a father?
Pulled into a world where creatures from all seasons bicker and fight over power, Owl suddenly finds herself the centre of an evil plot. A plot intended to get rid of both winter, and her father, once and for all…
I really enjoyed this book. Owl is a very relatable heroine who on top of a crazy mum, magical powers and stalking imps - still has her own real world problems. I believe she deals with everything just as any other pre-teen would. Lies. Avoidance, followed by some bad choices. The truth is shared only with one person, naturally, her best friend, Mallory.
However I really liked all the characters in this story. Especially the otherworldly creatures such as the Green Man, Queen of the May and of course, Jack frost. They were all cleverly written, showing both the good and bad sides of their natures. I also liked that every few chapters you got a glimpses of her mother’s story, which goes to explain a lot about her mothers character.
In terms of plot, a lot does happens, but in a subtle way. There isn't really that much action and I never felt the stakes were particularly high, or that Owl was ever in danger of… well anything really. Ultimately though this is a story of Owl’s journey to discover who and what she is.
Overall though this book was very sweet and I think girls of all ages would enjoy reading this during the long, cold nights of autumn and winter. Beautifully written with magic, mischief and a dusting of frost "A Girl Called Owl" is a lovely debut novel. I look forward to seeing what Amy Wilson comes up with next.
3.5 stars!
Owl has always been told she is special, but only when she starts creating icicles — and freezing her science homework — does she begin to understand just how special she is. She’s never known her dad, and now evidence points Owl toward a man of myth and legend. But could such a man ever be a father?
Pulled into a world where creatures from all seasons bicker and fight over power, Owl suddenly finds herself the centre of an evil plot. A plot intended to get rid of both winter, and her father, once and for all…
I really enjoyed this book. Owl is a very relatable heroine who on top of a crazy mum, magical powers and stalking imps - still has her own real world problems. I believe she deals with everything just as any other pre-teen would. Lies. Avoidance, followed by some bad choices. The truth is shared only with one person, naturally, her best friend, Mallory.
However I really liked all the characters in this story. Especially the otherworldly creatures such as the Green Man, Queen of the May and of course, Jack frost. They were all cleverly written, showing both the good and bad sides of their natures. I also liked that every few chapters you got a glimpses of her mother’s story, which goes to explain a lot about her mothers character.
In terms of plot, a lot does happens, but in a subtle way. There isn't really that much action and I never felt the stakes were particularly high, or that Owl was ever in danger of… well anything really. Ultimately though this is a story of Owl’s journey to discover who and what she is.
Overall though this book was very sweet and I think girls of all ages would enjoy reading this during the long, cold nights of autumn and winter. Beautifully written with magic, mischief and a dusting of frost "A Girl Called Owl" is a lovely debut novel. I look forward to seeing what Amy Wilson comes up with next.
3.5 stars!
November 5, 2017
Pan Macmillan were so generous in allowing me a copy of this book to read, and after reading and adoring 'Heartless' I wanted to read another of theirs that was a little more themed around Winter. This is of course Amy Wilson's debut, and a middle-grade book that is aimed at an audience younger than myself. Still, I was intrigued by the inclusion of the famous figure Jack Frost and some other folklore characters, not to mention the magical synopsis and pretty cover. It seemed like the perfect choice!
And honestly? I thought this book was okay. It had a lot of potential with some interesting character profiles and very intriguing idea on how folkloric figures could be working behind the scenes to create our seasons. There were some great 'moments' in this book. Sadly, those 'moments' were not enough to hold it together and it never really felt more than 'okay' for me. The writing was pretty good and it had the makings of a solid, fun story, but it flitted from one thing to another without allowing me to become emotionally invested in what was going on. I didn't get enough of anything. I liked getting a peek at the 'Fae court' and meeting Jack Frost, the Green Man, the Earl of October etc. but I didn't get much more than that to be honest and I would have liked to have seen their personalities and backstories shining through, rather than just being told. Owl as an MC was bold but flighty. Her mood swings confused me and her reasoning didn't make sense.
Sadly, like is all I'll ever do for this book. Unresolved (and unnecessary) plot-lines such as Mallory's got in the way, Owl was prone to moments of strength, but also became irritating when she wasn't seeing her own ignorance. I read this book liking the idea f it a lot, but also not liking it enough to actually REALLY get into it. For a younger audience? I think it would be a pretty good read and a good start to a series, perhaps. However, I would have liked to have seen something fresher and more exciting.
For a full review, see here: https://chasedbymyimagination.blogspo...
And honestly? I thought this book was okay. It had a lot of potential with some interesting character profiles and very intriguing idea on how folkloric figures could be working behind the scenes to create our seasons. There were some great 'moments' in this book. Sadly, those 'moments' were not enough to hold it together and it never really felt more than 'okay' for me. The writing was pretty good and it had the makings of a solid, fun story, but it flitted from one thing to another without allowing me to become emotionally invested in what was going on. I didn't get enough of anything. I liked getting a peek at the 'Fae court' and meeting Jack Frost, the Green Man, the Earl of October etc. but I didn't get much more than that to be honest and I would have liked to have seen their personalities and backstories shining through, rather than just being told. Owl as an MC was bold but flighty. Her mood swings confused me and her reasoning didn't make sense.
Sadly, like is all I'll ever do for this book. Unresolved (and unnecessary) plot-lines such as Mallory's got in the way, Owl was prone to moments of strength, but also became irritating when she wasn't seeing her own ignorance. I read this book liking the idea f it a lot, but also not liking it enough to actually REALLY get into it. For a younger audience? I think it would be a pretty good read and a good start to a series, perhaps. However, I would have liked to have seen something fresher and more exciting.
For a full review, see here: https://chasedbymyimagination.blogspo...
November 5, 2017
Thirteen-year-old Owl has an artistic mother, that's why she has a strange first name. Her mother often tells her stories about frosted faraway places filled with magic, but she doesn't tell Owl what she wants to know the most, who her father is. Owl can talk about her problems with her best friend, but she keeps feeling alone. Drawing owls help her to feel a bit of comfort, but she misses having a father.
When frost starts to appear on Owl's skin Owl doesn't know what's happening to her. As the issue doesn't go away Owl has to ask herself if this strange ability is linked to her father. Who is he and how can she get her mother to talk about him? Is the world her mother has been describing for years actually real? What will happen when Owl starts believing these strange stories, will she be able to step into the world of winter and find out who she is?
A Girl Called Owl is a beautiful story about a girl who wants to get to know her father. Owl misses part of her ancestry and wants to know where she comes from, which is a great theme for a story. Amy Wilson combines this with a gorgeous magical world filled with frost and snow, which works very well. Owl is kindhearted and artistic. She's a talented girl, but she's also feeling alone. She desperately wants to prove herself, which keeps getting her in trouble. Step by step she'll learn, but everything has a price. Owl has a lot of growing up to do and her journey is difficult, but special. I couldn't wait to discover where her adventures would lead and loved the direction Amy Wilson has chosen for Owl's story.
A Girl Called Owl is filled with gorgeous descriptions of snow and ice. I love a good winter story and Amy Wilson makes her world come to life incredibly well. I liked the name she's chosen for her main character, how she combines myths with reality and the many surprising twists and turns that are making her story interesting. I also enjoyed reading about Owl's close friendships and admire the way Amy Wilson writes about the value of family. Owl's adventure is gripping, spellbinding and moving at the same time. I really loved this amazing story.
When frost starts to appear on Owl's skin Owl doesn't know what's happening to her. As the issue doesn't go away Owl has to ask herself if this strange ability is linked to her father. Who is he and how can she get her mother to talk about him? Is the world her mother has been describing for years actually real? What will happen when Owl starts believing these strange stories, will she be able to step into the world of winter and find out who she is?
A Girl Called Owl is a beautiful story about a girl who wants to get to know her father. Owl misses part of her ancestry and wants to know where she comes from, which is a great theme for a story. Amy Wilson combines this with a gorgeous magical world filled with frost and snow, which works very well. Owl is kindhearted and artistic. She's a talented girl, but she's also feeling alone. She desperately wants to prove herself, which keeps getting her in trouble. Step by step she'll learn, but everything has a price. Owl has a lot of growing up to do and her journey is difficult, but special. I couldn't wait to discover where her adventures would lead and loved the direction Amy Wilson has chosen for Owl's story.
A Girl Called Owl is filled with gorgeous descriptions of snow and ice. I love a good winter story and Amy Wilson makes her world come to life incredibly well. I liked the name she's chosen for her main character, how she combines myths with reality and the many surprising twists and turns that are making her story interesting. I also enjoyed reading about Owl's close friendships and admire the way Amy Wilson writes about the value of family. Owl's adventure is gripping, spellbinding and moving at the same time. I really loved this amazing story.
February 9, 2017
A Girl Called Owl by Amy Wilson follows titular character Owl as she begins to discover strange new powers, leading her to uncover the truth about her mysterious father. I recieved a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Beneath the frost, this story is so full of warmth: the characters are full of life and their interactions throughout were a joy to read. Seeing Owl become closer with both a new friend and an old one alongside watching her relationship with her father build up and develop was wonderful.
Owl's narration makes up most of the book but there are some other sections in-between that turn to third person and it breaks the spell just a little: they are far from being badly written, but their placement was jarring, at times affecting the consistency and flow. Even so, there were some truly fantastic lines in each.
Unfortunately, while the book excelled with the relationships between Owl and her father and Owl and her friends, the relationship between Owl and her mother felt lacking by comparison. I was sure from the beginning that there would be more coming soon, but I was let down in the end and there was a lot of missed potential in that area. The owl symbolism too felt slightly disappointing, as it seemed like it was going to be a part of something bigger than it was.
Other than the wonderful cast, the subject of change: adjusting to it, fearing it, wanting to go back — is brought to life in such a realistic and moving way. Owl's narration following her journey and her development along the way was outdone only by the wonderful characters and relationships through which these themes shine through.
Review originally posted on my blog.
Beneath the frost, this story is so full of warmth: the characters are full of life and their interactions throughout were a joy to read. Seeing Owl become closer with both a new friend and an old one alongside watching her relationship with her father build up and develop was wonderful.
Owl's narration makes up most of the book but there are some other sections in-between that turn to third person and it breaks the spell just a little: they are far from being badly written, but their placement was jarring, at times affecting the consistency and flow. Even so, there were some truly fantastic lines in each.
'And yet,' she said, finding her voice in a cloud of steam. 'And yet you have some power, and liberty. You have form and feeling, does that not count? Does that not make you capable of something more than your limits?'
Unfortunately, while the book excelled with the relationships between Owl and her father and Owl and her friends, the relationship between Owl and her mother felt lacking by comparison. I was sure from the beginning that there would be more coming soon, but I was let down in the end and there was a lot of missed potential in that area. The owl symbolism too felt slightly disappointing, as it seemed like it was going to be a part of something bigger than it was.
Other than the wonderful cast, the subject of change: adjusting to it, fearing it, wanting to go back — is brought to life in such a realistic and moving way. Owl's narration following her journey and her development along the way was outdone only by the wonderful characters and relationships through which these themes shine through.
Review originally posted on my blog.
June 1, 2017
(Review of digital ARC from EdelweissPlus) This librarian of 4th/5th graders will definitely be buying this book for at least one of her libraries! Fantasy is my genre and while I generally lean more towards dragons and darker magic, this piece of fantasy was outstanding. What a great concept-- Jack Frost and the North Wind battling with the Queen of May and the Earl of October with the Lady of the Lake trying to stay out of the ruckus and Mother Earth having to step in to reestablish the harmony of nature. And then on top of all that Wilson throws in a great cast of humans and part humans to royally stir things up as Owl, child of a human and Jack Frost, and Avery, whose parentage I won't mention, struggle with power that they don't understand. And along with the great magic of nature's "elementals," there are normal things like school, poor Algebra grades, parents separating, friendships going awry...This is book that I know my 5th grade girls will love and if the guys can get over the main character being female, they will also enjoy it. Parents, teachers, and librarians will love the word choices used by Wilson and her vivid descriptions of nature's beauty and its fury. I don't know where another book would take us, but if Amy Wilson writes another about Owl, Avery, and Mallory, I'll read it. But regardless, after reading The Lost Frost Girl, I will be watching for anything else that she writes!
February 8, 2019
This was so magical! I think this is a book for younger adults and teenagers, but as a grown adult woman I could enjoy it a lot. The writing is very atmospheric and the characters are well done. A cute fantasy story that I finished in a day.
February 4, 2017
I loved this book! I received an arc copy and I ended up reading it in a few days
May 23, 2017
This book is better suited for young teenagers. True. However, for a light quick reading, I believe it's suited for anybody who loves fantasy. The plot wasn't distinct, but then it wasn't uninteresting either. The characters are simple, and behave like normal people. The best thing is, it's like the story is grounded in reality. Although Owl's age isn't mentioned, I have a feeling that she is either in 7th or 8th grade, and she behaves accordingly. I actually like the cover. It's simple, yet beautiful. I like the fables that have been included (it gives us a better glimpse in the experiences of Owl's mother) although they could have been written more simply (given that the book is from Owl's pov). My rating would range from 3.5-3.7 which I'm rounding off to 4. Oh also, I'd definitely love to read a sequel of this book.
January 16, 2023
Owl has always wanted to know her father, but when her mom tells her that he's Jack Frost, Owl gives up ever finding out the truth. But then strange things start happening, like frost growing on Owl's fingers and her drawings coming to life. Then faeries start appearing to her, and Owl is forced to confront the truth not only of her own heritage but of the twisted plots that wrap around her very existence.
In some ways, I loved the way this book considers the many facets of nature and how the truth is valuable. There wasn't much deeper meaning than that, which is fine, but it didn't touch me deeply. I truly enjoyed spending time in this world, and I appreciate the conflicts that arose among the seasons and why.
In some ways, I loved the way this book considers the many facets of nature and how the truth is valuable. There wasn't much deeper meaning than that, which is fine, but it didn't touch me deeply. I truly enjoyed spending time in this world, and I appreciate the conflicts that arose among the seasons and why.
January 28, 2022
2-2.5 stars
I don't know how I got through the book, there were times I wanted to DNF but I dragged through it. Owl ( that's the bame of a girl) is trying to find out who her father is, but her mum won't tell her directly but with stories. Her friend Mallory is over dramatic, emotional and impulsive friend for Owl. It got repeative, not interesting until I found out who Owl's father. I didn't like anything, I found it boring ,and overall uninterested.
I don't know how I got through the book, there were times I wanted to DNF but I dragged through it. Owl ( that's the bame of a girl) is trying to find out who her father is, but her mum won't tell her directly but with stories. Her friend Mallory is over dramatic, emotional and impulsive friend for Owl. It got repeative, not interesting until I found out who Owl's father. I didn't like anything, I found it boring ,and overall uninterested.
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