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The Magic Misfits #2
The Second Story
Growing up in an orphanage, Leila was bullied for being different. But she turned her hardship into skill by becoming an escape artist—a valuable trait when belonging to a group of magical best friends. When a famous psychic comes to town, however, Leila and her pals won't be able to escape the big mystery heading their way. Whether chasing mad monkeys or banishing ghosts from haunted hotels, these six friends will do their best to keep Mineral Wells safe—but can they still protect themselves in the process?
Join the Magic Misfits as they discover adventure, friendship, and more than a few hidden secrets in this delightful new series. Whether you're a new fan of stage magic or a longtime expert at illusion, Magic Misfits is sure to delight even more than sawing your assistant in half!
... have more questions? I thought you might. Here are some answers:
WHERE? A sleepy town in New England and the magic shop there, run by the friendly but mysterious Dante Vernon—the gang's caped and top-hatted mentor.
WHO? Carter, who makes cards and coins vanish. Leila, who escapes from trunks and straitjackets. Theo, who levitates with the aid of his violin bow. Ridley, who invents and transforms everyday objects. And of course twins Olly and Izzy, who make everyone laugh.
WHY? Because together, these six Magical Misfits will discover adventure, friendship, and the town's long-hidden secrets.
(Psst. Hey, you! Yes, YOU! Congratulations on reading this far down. As a reward, I'll let you in on a little secret.... This book isn't just a book. It's a treasure trove of secrets and ciphers and codes and even tricks. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll discover more than just a story—you'll learn how to make your own magic!)
Join the Magic Misfits as they discover adventure, friendship, and more than a few hidden secrets in this delightful new series. Whether you're a new fan of stage magic or a longtime expert at illusion, Magic Misfits is sure to delight even more than sawing your assistant in half!
... have more questions? I thought you might. Here are some answers:
WHERE? A sleepy town in New England and the magic shop there, run by the friendly but mysterious Dante Vernon—the gang's caped and top-hatted mentor.
WHO? Carter, who makes cards and coins vanish. Leila, who escapes from trunks and straitjackets. Theo, who levitates with the aid of his violin bow. Ridley, who invents and transforms everyday objects. And of course twins Olly and Izzy, who make everyone laugh.
WHY? Because together, these six Magical Misfits will discover adventure, friendship, and the town's long-hidden secrets.
(Psst. Hey, you! Yes, YOU! Congratulations on reading this far down. As a reward, I'll let you in on a little secret.... This book isn't just a book. It's a treasure trove of secrets and ciphers and codes and even tricks. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll discover more than just a story—you'll learn how to make your own magic!)
336 pages, Hardcover
First published September 25, 2018
479 people are currently reading
3427 people want to read
About the author
Neil Patrick Harris
60 books1,262 followersNeil Patrick Harris is an American actor, producer, director, magician, comedian and singer. He is best known for playing Barney Stinson in the television comedy series How I Met Your Mother (2005–2014), for which he was nominated for four Emmy Awards. As a child star he played the title character in Doogie Howser, M.D. (1989–1993). He is also known for his role as the title character in Joss Whedon's musical Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog (2008) and a fictional version of himself in the Harold & Kumar film series (2004–2011). He has also appeared in the films Starship Troopers (1997), Beastly (2011), The Smurfs (2011), The Smurfs 2 (2013) and Gone Girl (2014). Harris was named as one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in 2010, and was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in September 2011. He has also hosted the Tony Awards on Broadway in 2009, 2011, 2012 and 2013, for which he won several special class Emmy Awards. He also hosted the Primetime Emmy Awards in 2009 and 2013, and will host the 87th Academy Awards in 2015. In 2014, he starred as the title role of Hedwig and the Angry Inch on Broadway, for which he won the 2014 Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 505 reviews
October 15, 2018
Neil Patrick Harris is such a great storyteller. My son and I loved this book just as much as the 1st book if not more. I love that we are getting to know more about each character. This book focuses on Leila and her story. We learn all about her past and how she came to be adopted by her 2 dads and we find out a little about her actual parents. The frown clowns make another appearance causing more trouble for the misfits. The Magic Misfits managed to take them down before. Can they do it again?
December 31, 2018
Why does Neil Patrick Harris have to hit me in the feels?! This is really such a wonderfully diverse and magical series and I would highly recommend it for anyone wanting same sex parents and/or adopted family dynamic. The characters are so freaking fun and the magic lessons are such a fun idea
September 17, 2020
I didn’t think it was possible, but I love book two even more than book one!!! Leila is obviously now my favorite misfit. This one struck a huge cord for me because while I’ve been blessed with my boys, I’ve always wanted a girl and have been thinking of adoption. Leila is no longer an orphan, but if she were (and obviously if she were real), I would scoop her up and give her all the love possible. She’s smart, intuitive, and just as sweet as can be. Point is, if you’re sensitive about sad orphans, this book is going to touch your heart.
The misfits really get roped into an adventure this time and it sure is a fun time!!! I did seriously want to smack some of these bad people though, cause you just don’t mess with the hearts of small children who have been hurt in the past!!!! But I digress, the book really reels you in this time and jumps in from the beginning. It’s so entertaining throughout and there really isn’t a dull moment.
Once again, I adored the magic lessons because they’re so cute. The addition of morse code is also super fun!! Each illustration is also great and you get to see several great action scenes!!
If you enjoyed the first in the series, I really recommend this one!! It’s funny, heartfelt, and just a great time!!
The misfits really get roped into an adventure this time and it sure is a fun time!!! I did seriously want to smack some of these bad people though, cause you just don’t mess with the hearts of small children who have been hurt in the past!!!! But I digress, the book really reels you in this time and jumps in from the beginning. It’s so entertaining throughout and there really isn’t a dull moment.
Once again, I adored the magic lessons because they’re so cute. The addition of morse code is also super fun!! Each illustration is also great and you get to see several great action scenes!!
If you enjoyed the first in the series, I really recommend this one!! It’s funny, heartfelt, and just a great time!!
February 7, 2019
3.5
El misterio esmeralda ha sido una historia llena de magia, misterio, aventuras y sorpresas, pero sobre todo acerca de lo importante que es la familia y la amistad.
Reseña completa: http://fiebrelectora.blogspot.com/201...
El misterio esmeralda ha sido una historia llena de magia, misterio, aventuras y sorpresas, pero sobre todo acerca de lo importante que es la familia y la amistad.
Reseña completa: http://fiebrelectora.blogspot.com/201...
January 25, 2019
This was an enjoyable addition to the Magic Misfits series, with the same fun characters and new adventures. I didn't enjoy it quite as much as the first book, but part of that may have been the change in narrator for the audio, which I was not happy about.
The focus has shifted from Carter and is resting on Leila now. We learn more about her past as an orphan and secrets that she has kept from her friends and parents. And while the rest of the gang doesn't get a lot of development, we do see all of them growing closer as friends, which is fantastic.
I also like the magic aspect because you never know if it's just tricks or if it's "real" magic, which is neat. It also shows that magic can be found anywhere, depending on what you consider magic to be. We are surrounded by magic everywhere in the world.
Christina Hendricks was the narrator for this installment and while I think she did a good job with it, I was disappointed that Neil Patrick Harris did not do the narration this time. It made sense, since the focus was on a girl character this time, but at the same time, since it's not in first person and is told from a narrator's perspective anyway, it would have made sense to keep it the same person. But maybe that's just me missing Neil and his energy.
The focus has shifted from Carter and is resting on Leila now. We learn more about her past as an orphan and secrets that she has kept from her friends and parents. And while the rest of the gang doesn't get a lot of development, we do see all of them growing closer as friends, which is fantastic.
I also like the magic aspect because you never know if it's just tricks or if it's "real" magic, which is neat. It also shows that magic can be found anywhere, depending on what you consider magic to be. We are surrounded by magic everywhere in the world.
Christina Hendricks was the narrator for this installment and while I think she did a good job with it, I was disappointed that Neil Patrick Harris did not do the narration this time. It made sense, since the focus was on a girl character this time, but at the same time, since it's not in first person and is told from a narrator's perspective anyway, it would have made sense to keep it the same person. But maybe that's just me missing Neil and his energy.
April 18, 2018
This series continues to delight, in no small part because of Neil Patrick Harris's distinctive voice.
Also: Magic! Secret codes! Adventure! Danger! Friendship! Animals!
Where the first book focused on Carter, this second volume turns its attention to Leila, the adopted daughter of Dante Vernon and his husband. When a stranger from Dante's past shows up unexpectedly, she offers Leila an opportunity to perform her escapist skills for an audience as well as possibly providing Leila with some answers about why she was left at the orphanage and who left her there. But, as with all mysterious strangers from the past, there may be more to her sudden appearance than meets the eye.
Any kid who loves magic (of the Abracadabra not Wingardium Leviosa variety) or puzzle solving or friendship or monkeys will enjoy spending time with Leila and Carter and the other Misfits.
Also: Magic! Secret codes! Adventure! Danger! Friendship! Animals!
Where the first book focused on Carter, this second volume turns its attention to Leila, the adopted daughter of Dante Vernon and his husband. When a stranger from Dante's past shows up unexpectedly, she offers Leila an opportunity to perform her escapist skills for an audience as well as possibly providing Leila with some answers about why she was left at the orphanage and who left her there. But, as with all mysterious strangers from the past, there may be more to her sudden appearance than meets the eye.
Any kid who loves magic (of the Abracadabra not Wingardium Leviosa variety) or puzzle solving or friendship or monkeys will enjoy spending time with Leila and Carter and the other Misfits.
December 8, 2018
3.75/5
While this didn’t charm me nearly as much as the first one did, this was still a cute little read full of friendship and family and magic. All the wholesome goodness you would want to bestow upon kids without sacrificing any entertainment value. Also hi if this could be an animated tv series in the same art style as the illustrations that’d be perfect thanks.
While this didn’t charm me nearly as much as the first one did, this was still a cute little read full of friendship and family and magic. All the wholesome goodness you would want to bestow upon kids without sacrificing any entertainment value. Also hi if this could be an animated tv series in the same art style as the illustrations that’d be perfect thanks.
Want to read
February 3, 2018OMG I love this cover! The colors just pop! I need it on my shelf YESTERDAY!
October 29, 2018
4.5 stars | I just want 20 of these stories. thank you.
January 31, 2019
This is so cute sooo cute!!! I love Leila and her dads
November 8, 2019
Ich bin nach wie vor begeistert von dieser Buchreihe um 6 Nachwuchs-Zauberer, dennoch kam dieser 2. Teil nicht an den tollen 1. Band heran.
Diesmal geht es um Leilas Geschichte, wie sie vor einigen Jahren zu Mr. Vernon gekommen ist. Gleichzeitig lernen wir mit dem Auftauchen von Madame Esmeralda ein weiteres Mitglied des Clubs kennen, den Mr. Vernon und seine Freunde vor vielen Jahren gründeten. Doch obwohl auch diesmal alles ein bisschen geheimnisvoll und gespickt mit Zaubereien und der ein oder anderen Überraschung ist, fanden wir die Geschichte (mit ihren immerhin 350 Seiten) doch auch langatmig erzählt. Erst im letzten Viertel des Buches wurde es richtig interessant. Der finale Showdown erstreckt sich dann allerdings über ein komplettes Kapitel mit 30 Seiten! Circa 15 Personen sind daran beteiligt, und selbst mir fiel es schwer allen Beschreibungen zu folgen und diese im Kopf zu Bildern werden zu lassen. Zum Glück gab es zum Ende hin eine Illustration, die noch einmal verdeutlichte wer wie mit wem am Wickel war, die war in dem Fall wirklich sehr hilfreich.
Die stellenweise Verwendung von antiquierten Wörtern ist ebenfalls nicht ganz ideal für die Zielgruppe. Die können mit Wörtern wie zB untersetzt, feist, gedrungen nicht viel anfangen und wissen auch nicht dass "ich muss mir mal schnell die Nase pudern" bedeuten soll, dass diese Person auf die Toilette verschwindet. Auch der Begriff Séance hätte beim erstmaligen Auftauchen erklärt werden sollen, da viele Kids das Buch sicher alleine lesen und nicht wissen, was damit gemeint ist. Ich habe meinen Söhnen die Wörter jeweils 'übersetzt', so erweitern sie immerhin ihren Wortschatz.
Auch bei den Neckereien der Kinder, besonders zwischen Ridley und den Zwillingen, haben meine Kinder selten die Scherze verstanden, und so wurde es ihnen stellenweise auch mal etwas fad beim zuhören.
Dennoch waren meine Jungs insgesamt gesehen wieder begeistert von dem Buch. Auch die Beschreibungen der Zaubertricks, die zwischen den Kapiteln versteckt sind, waren wieder toll. Ebenso, dass wir selbst tätig werden und Nachrichten im Morsecode selbst übersetzen mussten oder eine Karte anhand einer 'Buchstaben-Scheibe' entschlüsseln. Solche interaktiven Dinge, die Harris ja bereits im 1. Teil eingebaut hat, machen den jungen Lesern Spaß. Ich fand es gut, dass er am Ende seine Leserschaft erneut dazu auffordert, nach Beenden des Buches auch mal wieder raus in die (reale) Welt zu gehen und neue Dinge zu entdecken und erforschen.
Ich hätte, angesichts der Langatmigkeit, der teilweise fehlenden Spannung und der sprachlichen 'Mängel' nur 3,5 Sterne vergeben. Bei Kinderbüchern, die ich mit meinen Jungs zusammen gelesen habe, haben sie aber auch ein Mitspracherecht - und so runde ich gern auf 4 Sterne auf!
Diesmal geht es um Leilas Geschichte, wie sie vor einigen Jahren zu Mr. Vernon gekommen ist. Gleichzeitig lernen wir mit dem Auftauchen von Madame Esmeralda ein weiteres Mitglied des Clubs kennen, den Mr. Vernon und seine Freunde vor vielen Jahren gründeten. Doch obwohl auch diesmal alles ein bisschen geheimnisvoll und gespickt mit Zaubereien und der ein oder anderen Überraschung ist, fanden wir die Geschichte (mit ihren immerhin 350 Seiten) doch auch langatmig erzählt. Erst im letzten Viertel des Buches wurde es richtig interessant. Der finale Showdown erstreckt sich dann allerdings über ein komplettes Kapitel mit 30 Seiten! Circa 15 Personen sind daran beteiligt, und selbst mir fiel es schwer allen Beschreibungen zu folgen und diese im Kopf zu Bildern werden zu lassen. Zum Glück gab es zum Ende hin eine Illustration, die noch einmal verdeutlichte wer wie mit wem am Wickel war, die war in dem Fall wirklich sehr hilfreich.
Die stellenweise Verwendung von antiquierten Wörtern ist ebenfalls nicht ganz ideal für die Zielgruppe. Die können mit Wörtern wie zB untersetzt, feist, gedrungen nicht viel anfangen und wissen auch nicht dass "ich muss mir mal schnell die Nase pudern" bedeuten soll, dass diese Person auf die Toilette verschwindet. Auch der Begriff Séance hätte beim erstmaligen Auftauchen erklärt werden sollen, da viele Kids das Buch sicher alleine lesen und nicht wissen, was damit gemeint ist. Ich habe meinen Söhnen die Wörter jeweils 'übersetzt', so erweitern sie immerhin ihren Wortschatz.
Auch bei den Neckereien der Kinder, besonders zwischen Ridley und den Zwillingen, haben meine Kinder selten die Scherze verstanden, und so wurde es ihnen stellenweise auch mal etwas fad beim zuhören.
Dennoch waren meine Jungs insgesamt gesehen wieder begeistert von dem Buch. Auch die Beschreibungen der Zaubertricks, die zwischen den Kapiteln versteckt sind, waren wieder toll. Ebenso, dass wir selbst tätig werden und Nachrichten im Morsecode selbst übersetzen mussten oder eine Karte anhand einer 'Buchstaben-Scheibe' entschlüsseln. Solche interaktiven Dinge, die Harris ja bereits im 1. Teil eingebaut hat, machen den jungen Lesern Spaß. Ich fand es gut, dass er am Ende seine Leserschaft erneut dazu auffordert, nach Beenden des Buches auch mal wieder raus in die (reale) Welt zu gehen und neue Dinge zu entdecken und erforschen.
Ich hätte, angesichts der Langatmigkeit, der teilweise fehlenden Spannung und der sprachlichen 'Mängel' nur 3,5 Sterne vergeben. Bei Kinderbüchern, die ich mit meinen Jungs zusammen gelesen habe, haben sie aber auch ein Mitspracherecht - und so runde ich gern auf 4 Sterne auf!
November 23, 2020
Фокусниците се завръщат! Изминаха две години на очакване откакто прочетохме „Магични мистерии” на симпатягата Нийл Патрик Харис, но ето, че продължението на младежкия илюстрован роман най-накрая е тук. „Магични мистерии 2” ще ви накара сериозно да се замислите дали Харис не се справя като детски писател дори по-добре отколкото като актьор. А фактът, че освен всичко „братлето” е и илюзионист, със сигурност му е помогнало много в изграждането на поредното вълнуващо приключение, изпълнено с хумор и вълшебни трикове. Прочетете ревюто на „Книжни Криле”: https://knijnikrile.wordpress.com/202...
April 3, 2021
Нийл Патрик Харис е създал една прекрасна поредица, книгите се четат изключително бързо, интересни и забавни и също така смятам, че са подходящи за всяка една възраст и освен това не са затормозяващи.
В тази втора част ще се запознаем със историята на друг член от познатата ни банда, а именно Лайла и искам да ви кажа че, тя е не по-малко интересна и завързана. Наистина, смятам че има доста интересни неща около миналото, а защо не и бъдещето на Лайла. Момичето има двама прекрасни бащи - бащите Върнън, единият от тях ще се окаже замесен в предстоящото приключение на познатата ни банда. Неговото минало ще се окаже много повече преплетено с това на Лайла и нейните биологични отдавна изоставили я родители. От време на време, компания ще им прави и симпатичния папагал на сем. Върнън, на име Престо - и освен това ще издирват и проклетата, но може би уплашена маймуна на Босо.
Старата позната на мистър Върнън и известен медиум Сандра, се е завърнала в града и колкото и да се опитва да се скрие в крайна сметка последством, някои обстоятелства ще излезе на сцената. А със себе си, носи и още много тайни, свързани както с господин Върнън, връзката й с родителите на Лайла, така й със стария ни познат и винаги правещ мръсотии Босо.
Изпълнена с много тайни, мистерии, приключения и възможност да научим още нови фокуси, тази втора част ще ни забавлява отново и определено смятам че ще ни усмихне. Както и в предишната книга и в тази освен магическите фокуси, основно което присъства е и една друга магия, а именно тази на истинското и непринудено приятелство. Магията на приятелството и на семейството. Всъщност децата и главни герои ни показват, че ако има на кой да се опреш и разчиташ в трудни и добри моменти, всичко става по-лесно и всичко това дава на човек, повече сила и увереност.
Лейла, заедно с Картър и другите членове на групичката от млади фокусници ще тръгнат на ново приключение, и какво ще се случи ще оставя да разберете с подробностите сами. Но разбира се, преди да дойде хубавата и забавна част на историята, ще преминем и през лошотията на Босо и неговата банда. Както вече споменах и тук, автора се включва от време на време с някое закачливо изказване, показва ни с прекрасни илюстрации и напътствия как да научим нови фокуси. А в основата им винаги е практика, практика и пак практика.
Лично аз нямам търпение вече за следващата трета част! :)
"Запомнете: разказът може да е бягство от обикновения живот. Щастливият спомен може да бъде бягство от неприятен момент в настоящето. Играта с приятели е като бягство от скуката. А членството в клуб е бягство от самотата."
--- --- --- --- ---
Благодаря Ви, за отделеното време!!!
В тази втора част ще се запознаем със историята на друг член от познатата ни банда, а именно Лайла и искам да ви кажа че, тя е не по-малко интересна и завързана. Наистина, смятам че има доста интересни неща около миналото, а защо не и бъдещето на Лайла. Момичето има двама прекрасни бащи - бащите Върнън, единият от тях ще се окаже замесен в предстоящото приключение на познатата ни банда. Неговото минало ще се окаже много повече преплетено с това на Лайла и нейните биологични отдавна изоставили я родители. От време на време, компания ще им прави и симпатичния папагал на сем. Върнън, на име Престо - и освен това ще издирват и проклетата, но може би уплашена маймуна на Босо.
Старата позната на мистър Върнън и известен медиум Сандра, се е завърнала в града и колкото и да се опитва да се скрие в крайна сметка последством, някои обстоятелства ще излезе на сцената. А със себе си, носи и още много тайни, свързани както с господин Върнън, връзката й с родителите на Лайла, така й със стария ни познат и винаги правещ мръсотии Босо.
Изпълнена с много тайни, мистерии, приключения и възможност да научим още нови фокуси, тази втора част ще ни забавлява отново и определено смятам че ще ни усмихне. Както и в предишната книга и в тази освен магическите фокуси, основно което присъства е и една друга магия, а именно тази на истинското и непринудено приятелство. Магията на приятелството и на семейството. Всъщност децата и главни герои ни показват, че ако има на кой да се опреш и разчиташ в трудни и добри моменти, всичко става по-лесно и всичко това дава на човек, повече сила и увереност.
Лейла, заедно с Картър и другите членове на групичката от млади фокусници ще тръгнат на ново приключение, и какво ще се случи ще оставя да разберете с подробностите сами. Но разбира се, преди да дойде хубавата и забавна част на историята, ще преминем и през лошотията на Босо и неговата банда. Както вече споменах и тук, автора се включва от време на време с някое закачливо изказване, показва ни с прекрасни илюстрации и напътствия как да научим нови фокуси. А в основата им винаги е практика, практика и пак практика.
Лично аз нямам търпение вече за следващата трета част! :)
"Запомнете: разказът може да е бягство от обикновения живот. Щастливият спомен може да бъде бягство от неприятен момент в настоящето. Играта с приятели е като бягство от скуката. А членството в клуб е бягство от самотата."
--- --- --- --- ---
Благодаря Ви, за отделеното време!!!
August 11, 2019
This is a great second installment of the magic misfits series by Neil Patrick Harris which focuses on Leila who wonders where she belongs with her dad and the misfits while trying to solve a mystery of why the famous psychic who has come to town keeps being secretive. If you enjoy middle grade fiction and magic, be sure to check this book out at your local library and wherever books are sold.
March 17, 2019
I was surprised how much I liked NPH's first foray into middle grade fiction so I eagerly picked up the sequel and was not disappointed. Sure, a little bit of the initial novelty had worn off, and it suffers from that middle-of-a-series lack of complete resolution. However, what makes this series special and different, IMO, is that each story in the series will be from a different perspective--each novel will feature a different Magical Misfit as the protagonist, so in that way the character kind of gets a full arc to his/her story. This time, the focus is on Leila, the adopted daughter of the Mister Vernons and I really enjoyed her story and her perspective. NPH managed to create a story that is at times zany and humorous, at others exciting or suspenseful, and totally tugs at the heartstrings throughout. I love the warm family he has crated with the Vernons and deeply appreciate the fact he has managed to include two loving parents throughout the story while still allowing the children the opportunity to shine and be heroes. A few times, I felt the antics got a bit much (Olly and Izzy get on my nerves just a tad sometimes--and I feel so guilty for saying that because I'm sure they've been created as a nod to NPH's own twins) and the climax had one those well-if-they'd-just-done-THIS-they-wouldn't-have-been-in-that-mess bits that can be a tad annoying. But, overall it was a really winning story and I think because so much of the focus wasn't on solving the mystery so much as Leila solving the riddle in her own heart, finding peace with her past and what she wants for her future. I also appreciate the diversity presented in the story -- a multiracial cast, gay parents, and one of the Misfits needs a wheelchair. None of this is the focus of the story, it just IS and I love that. I'll definitely look for the next book in the series when it comes out and I hope NPH can continue the "magic" he has created so far ;-)
October 21, 2019
I absolutely love this series. There's a little bit of Neil Patrick Harris's Count Olaf in these books that I love. There is always something sinister going on with a group of kids that are left to solve the mystery.
I love that he uses magic as not only an escape for these kids, but a bonding, as well as a life experience tool to help these kids grow. What I liked most about Book 2 was the haunted hotel aspect of the story. And these adults that keep appearing into their lives are all connected somehow, but how? That part is a bit like Lemony Snicket. I wonder how many books it will take before all is revealed.
This series is such a fun series. Granted, this is for young readers, but I enjoy the series so much. It is nice to escape into this world of kids fighting an unknown evil, but have no idea what exactly they are fighting against. Oddly enough, these sinister things going on are all connected to these children. But how? That is the question.
I love that he uses magic as not only an escape for these kids, but a bonding, as well as a life experience tool to help these kids grow. What I liked most about Book 2 was the haunted hotel aspect of the story. And these adults that keep appearing into their lives are all connected somehow, but how? That part is a bit like Lemony Snicket. I wonder how many books it will take before all is revealed.
This series is such a fun series. Granted, this is for young readers, but I enjoy the series so much. It is nice to escape into this world of kids fighting an unknown evil, but have no idea what exactly they are fighting against. Oddly enough, these sinister things going on are all connected to these children. But how? That is the question.
April 13, 2019
Another really sweet addition to the series!
I thoroughly enjoy Harris' style, tone, and approach to these stories. I love the messages and that they aren't heavy handed. The main characters are all distinct but also all good, supportive people. That I find incredibly refreshing!
This book handles themes of adoption and belonging so beautifully! And, while I saw one of the "surprises" coming pretty early on in the book, there were quite a few other surprises that I didn't see coming in the slightest!
The main plot isn't as "present" I guess I would say as it was in the first book (it takes a while to find out where the book is actually going and what the kids' "mission" will be) but I enjoyed the book nonetheless. It's such a nice book to read and I always looked forward to opening the cover and jumping back into the world of Mineral Wells.
Looking forward to book three!!!!!
I thoroughly enjoy Harris' style, tone, and approach to these stories. I love the messages and that they aren't heavy handed. The main characters are all distinct but also all good, supportive people. That I find incredibly refreshing!
This book handles themes of adoption and belonging so beautifully! And, while I saw one of the "surprises" coming pretty early on in the book, there were quite a few other surprises that I didn't see coming in the slightest!
The main plot isn't as "present" I guess I would say as it was in the first book (it takes a while to find out where the book is actually going and what the kids' "mission" will be) but I enjoyed the book nonetheless. It's such a nice book to read and I always looked forward to opening the cover and jumping back into the world of Mineral Wells.
Looking forward to book three!!!!!
July 18, 2020
This series just keeps getting better. The characters continue to grow in their friendships and themselves. Can Neil Patrick Harris please adopt me?
July 14, 2020
This book didn't capture my attention at all. The personalities of the Magic Misfits seemed more caricatures than real. The twins spouted nonsense almost the entire book and Theo barely had a presence in the story. I think Harris's intention is to go through the different members of the society and focus on their story, but I don't want to wait that long to get a feeling for who some of these kids are. It might be too many characters in such a small page frame. At this point I don't have the motivation to continue on with this series. The stories aren't intriguing me and the over arching mystery isn't grabbing me either.
August 27, 2020
****5.0****
This was better than the first one. Neil Patrick Harris surely knows how to write an interesting story.
The Second stroty is centered on Leila, the adopted daughter of Vernon's. How she was at the orphanage, the bullying, a key, her fascination towards magic tricks and mystery around her biological parents.
The story is a bit more sophisticated than the first one. There are tunnels that link whole town, secret cryptic messages and the good old Emarald Ring team backstrory. But together the Magic Misfits finds the solution for every problem.
A very enjoyable read. Loved it.
Happy Reading!!!
This was better than the first one. Neil Patrick Harris surely knows how to write an interesting story.
The Second stroty is centered on Leila, the adopted daughter of Vernon's. How she was at the orphanage, the bullying, a key, her fascination towards magic tricks and mystery around her biological parents.
The story is a bit more sophisticated than the first one. There are tunnels that link whole town, secret cryptic messages and the good old Emarald Ring team backstrory. But together the Magic Misfits finds the solution for every problem.
A very enjoyable read. Loved it.
Happy Reading!!!
November 30, 2018
This one was cute! A bit predictable maybe, but then again, the suggested ages don't exactly match mine, so it makes sense. Still, I adore Leila! Can't wait for the next one.
October 2, 2020
Leila had lived a sad life in an orphanage where the bigger girls bullied her, then one day a miracle happened a magician came to entertain them and he took to her and her enthusiasm instantly. Though she’d always wondered deep inside about her birth mom and the key she secretly hid.
I loved so much that this was about Leila I was so hoping for her story and we got it. She’s such an interesting and fun character and can escape from anything I love it. We also got to meet an interesting new character Sandra a clairvoyant who was part of the old group with Vernon.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, with Ridley being so sceptical of Sandra, Leila wanting you keep faith in her, the kids all working together, some truth about the emerald ring finally coming to light. It was such an interesting book and I was so sad when it ended I want to know so much more.
Narrator review: okay so Neil Patrick Harris himself narrated some parts and you can’t go wrong with that he’s hilarious and just has the perfect tone for this kinda thing. Then Christina Hendricks narrated the larger part of the book and honestly I loved listening to her, she was an amazing choice, clear, funny, got the right tone for the characters. She helped make the story so fascinating.
I loved so much that this was about Leila I was so hoping for her story and we got it. She’s such an interesting and fun character and can escape from anything I love it. We also got to meet an interesting new character Sandra a clairvoyant who was part of the old group with Vernon.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, with Ridley being so sceptical of Sandra, Leila wanting you keep faith in her, the kids all working together, some truth about the emerald ring finally coming to light. It was such an interesting book and I was so sad when it ended I want to know so much more.
Narrator review: okay so Neil Patrick Harris himself narrated some parts and you can’t go wrong with that he’s hilarious and just has the perfect tone for this kinda thing. Then Christina Hendricks narrated the larger part of the book and honestly I loved listening to her, she was an amazing choice, clear, funny, got the right tone for the characters. She helped make the story so fascinating.
July 5, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 stars because there was no controversial so eh. Just a comfort read)
I really enjoyed it. This was way cuter and heartfelt than the first book in my opinion. But I did love the action of book one more because when I think of middle grade I think of action and fighting "bad guys". However, the mystery and friendship still took my heart.
We also followed a different character than before. Initially I did not like the narrator's voice for the character, Layla (tbh I still don't) but I warmed up to it.
I had ZERO clue that we were following one of Carter's friends this time so I was thrown off by the change to a more feminine voice. Although, I really related to Layla.
She seemed to have anxiety and she really grew from trying to always be happy to maturing and being realistic.
Nevertheless, I am still VERY excited to continue the series. Also if things continue the way they have I will get my favorite character's pov. But all these characters are baby so...
I really enjoyed it. This was way cuter and heartfelt than the first book in my opinion. But I did love the action of book one more because when I think of middle grade I think of action and fighting "bad guys". However, the mystery and friendship still took my heart.
We also followed a different character than before. Initially I did not like the narrator's voice for the character, Layla (tbh I still don't) but I warmed up to it.
I had ZERO clue that we were following one of Carter's friends this time so I was thrown off by the change to a more feminine voice. Although, I really related to Layla.
She seemed to have anxiety and she really grew from trying to always be happy to maturing and being realistic.
Nevertheless, I am still VERY excited to continue the series. Also if things continue the way they have I will get my favorite character's pov. But all these characters are baby so...
November 15, 2018
I basically read this one just because I read the first one. The First Story was entertaining enough for a juvenile read. I really enjoyed The Second Story so much more. The characters were much more developed in this one, like the grew into their personalities. You also learn more of a back story on the adults in this one. I love how everyone is different and yet the same. These books really teach equality and how to embrace people with different abilities, magical or not. I highly recommend this to any youngster that enjoys reading as well as adults that need a refresher in how to treat people.
I am totally looking forward to the next book.
I am totally looking forward to the next book.
October 1, 2019
Si bien le faltó ese no sé qué del primer libro, banco mucho esta saga y espero seguir leyendo. A NPH ya lo quería mucho, y ahora todavía más. Me encanta el estilo Lemony Snicket, y que interrumpa la lectura con trucos de magia y que haya CODIGOS (aunque admito que me dio un poquito de fiaca descifrar los textos en morse, pero a una niña o un niño le encantaría)
October 29, 2018
Such a fun series
October 5, 2019
I fell in love with this series at the very beginning of the first book. The second book was a perfect read for my need of something light and fun. I love these kids! I need the next book ASAP.
December 9, 2019
Krásné pokračování. První díl mě sice bavil víc, tady byla jednoduší odhadnout, jak to dopadne, ale i tak to bylo krásné a kouzelné (doslova). Neil Patrick Harris je skvělý vypravěč, děti se rozhodně nudit nebudou a ještě se u toho naučí pár kouzelnických triků.
February 20, 2021
I love reading these books with my mom. I also love figuring out all the secret codes. My favorite, Morse code. Can’t wait to read the next book.
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