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The Marvelwood Magicians
A dynamic, exciting circus setting is the backdrop of this engaging fantasy featuring a fantastic cast of characters whose extraordinary talents are cleverly presented in an unforgettable mystery and coming-of-age story.
Audible Audio
First published September 19, 2017
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About the author
Diane Zahler
16 books242 followersI grew up reading children's books and never wanted to do anything but write them. I'm the author of nine middle grade novels, and my newest book is a historical novel called WILD BIRD. I live in the country with my husband and very enthusiastic dog Jinx. Visit my website at www.dianezahler.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
June 23, 2021
This is a middle grade book, but I am an adult and I loved it so much. This book is about a family with extraordinary talents and a circus. The story was so good, and I love circus setting books. I found the characters where very developed and fun. I feel I was there with the characters. Enough through this is a middle grade book I think adults would enjoyed this book as well. The narrator of this audiobook was great, and I really enjoyed listening to this book. I was kindly provided an e-audiobook of this book by the publisher (Live Oak Media) or author (Diane Zahler) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review about how I feel about this book, and I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
August 13, 2020
Alert! A fun circus read for the middle grade set! But also, note, I am well into my adult years and thoroughly enjoyed this one too!
The Marvelwood Magicians are a family of traveling performers. 11 year old Maddie Marvelwood can read minds if she touches someone. Her mother can see the future and her father and siblings have their own special magical talents. They live gig to gig traveling from fair to fair. One day when their vehicle breaks down they meet Master Morogh, who is the ringmaster of a traveling circus. Morogh agrees to bring the Marvelwoods on as a sideshow act. Maddie and her family love the other circus performers but there is something strange about Morogh's hypnotism act: people seem to lose a bit of themselves after being hypnotized. Maddie's brother loses his ability to disappear and the young aerialist loses her grace.
This was a fun and quick read. We listened to the audio book yesterday while hanging around the house doing puzzles and drawing pictures. The audio book narrator did a great job and kept us engaged. There was enough adventure and intrigue to keep my young one and myself interested. There was great development of both the circus atmosphere and the characters.
Thank you to the publisher for the audio book in exchange for an honest review!
The Marvelwood Magicians are a family of traveling performers. 11 year old Maddie Marvelwood can read minds if she touches someone. Her mother can see the future and her father and siblings have their own special magical talents. They live gig to gig traveling from fair to fair. One day when their vehicle breaks down they meet Master Morogh, who is the ringmaster of a traveling circus. Morogh agrees to bring the Marvelwoods on as a sideshow act. Maddie and her family love the other circus performers but there is something strange about Morogh's hypnotism act: people seem to lose a bit of themselves after being hypnotized. Maddie's brother loses his ability to disappear and the young aerialist loses her grace.
This was a fun and quick read. We listened to the audio book yesterday while hanging around the house doing puzzles and drawing pictures. The audio book narrator did a great job and kept us engaged. There was enough adventure and intrigue to keep my young one and myself interested. There was great development of both the circus atmosphere and the characters.
Thank you to the publisher for the audio book in exchange for an honest review!
December 10, 2020
This book was so cute. I love the idea that this magical family travels around performing under the guise of magic not being real.
The Marvelwood family is the kind of family I'd love to have--and not because they can do cool stuff, but because they're close. They are everything to each other and have a hard time letting in outsiders.
When they stumble upon a circus, they find themselves in danger, but they also find themselves surrounded by an entire crew of special people.
The Marvelwoods learn many lessons in this book.
I think this book is great for children looking to fit in because they're different from others. It helps show how our differences can be special--and important to others. You'll find friendship, family, love, and justice in this fun story.
And for those audio people, this is a great audio. The performance is spot on and I loved it!
The Marvelwood family is the kind of family I'd love to have--and not because they can do cool stuff, but because they're close. They are everything to each other and have a hard time letting in outsiders.
When they stumble upon a circus, they find themselves in danger, but they also find themselves surrounded by an entire crew of special people.
The Marvelwoods learn many lessons in this book.
I think this book is great for children looking to fit in because they're different from others. It helps show how our differences can be special--and important to others. You'll find friendship, family, love, and justice in this fun story.
And for those audio people, this is a great audio. The performance is spot on and I loved it!
November 2, 2017
This is a Goodreads win review. This is a really cute book about traveling performers with all different talents. I really liked and am going to donate it Toys for Tots for children readers to enjoy.
November 27, 2017
Great middle grade book for girls and boys who love magic.
August 14, 2020
This was a solid middle grade listen.
There were some themes revolving around coming of age, friendship, what it means to be normal, etc. that were fleshed out pretty well, and I can see younger readers bonding with the protagonist.
I did feel like the pace was a little slow, and I'm still not sure I follow the logic of the villain's actions, but the narrator's warm voice made it an easy listen.
There were some themes revolving around coming of age, friendship, what it means to be normal, etc. that were fleshed out pretty well, and I can see younger readers bonding with the protagonist.
I did feel like the pace was a little slow, and I'm still not sure I follow the logic of the villain's actions, but the narrator's warm voice made it an easy listen.
December 22, 2020
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book received in exchange for an honest review.
Marvelwood Magicians is the perfect book for a young teen. The book is told from the perspective of a young teenage girl, who travels with her family and works at a fair. Her whole family has unique abilities, which allows them to participate in fairs and circuses alike. After leaving their last job, they are welcomed into a circus with a very talented ring leader. Everything seems to be going perfectly for Mattie until Master Morogh steals her brother's talent.
Honestly, I'm glad I didn't really read the description for the book until after I read it. The description is pretty much 80% of the story. It was nice to not know where the story was headed or what Master Morogh was doing. This book was recommended to me by a friend, which is why I didn't read the description. If I had, this might have left to a lower rating on my end. As I was reading it, the only thing keeping me involved was trying to figure out how the story would unfold.
The author did a great job writing from the perspective of a young teen! I'm not sure any teen wants to feel out of place or different, so that was spot on. I did also appreciate the family dynamic and how nicely it wrapped up.
Marvelwood Magicians is the perfect book for a young teen. The book is told from the perspective of a young teenage girl, who travels with her family and works at a fair. Her whole family has unique abilities, which allows them to participate in fairs and circuses alike. After leaving their last job, they are welcomed into a circus with a very talented ring leader. Everything seems to be going perfectly for Mattie until Master Morogh steals her brother's talent.
Honestly, I'm glad I didn't really read the description for the book until after I read it. The description is pretty much 80% of the story. It was nice to not know where the story was headed or what Master Morogh was doing. This book was recommended to me by a friend, which is why I didn't read the description. If I had, this might have left to a lower rating on my end. As I was reading it, the only thing keeping me involved was trying to figure out how the story would unfold.
The author did a great job writing from the perspective of a young teen! I'm not sure any teen wants to feel out of place or different, so that was spot on. I did also appreciate the family dynamic and how nicely it wrapped up.
June 8, 2024
The Marvelwood Magicians is a fun and imaginative read that young readers are sure to enjoy. There are a great many magical elements and adventurous plot points to keep them engaged and is, overall, the sort of story that could resonate with anyone who has ever felt othered.
The world-building is creative, providing a vivid backdrop for the story. The characters in general were mostly fine, with really only the main character having any genuine depth. The villain was cookie-cutter and not anything to write home about.
It's a decent and quick read that children will likely remember with nostalgia as they grow, even if it doesn't stand out as an exceptional work in the genre. For that reason, it really is the sort of book that’s easier to connect to when younger as there are many others that have accomplished the message in a more meaningful way.
I did find the narration difficult to get into, however, and had to restart it numerous times before I managed to finish the book. At times, I even considered DNFing. I think this is the sort of story that would work much better as graphic audio rather than a simple audiobook.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The world-building is creative, providing a vivid backdrop for the story. The characters in general were mostly fine, with really only the main character having any genuine depth. The villain was cookie-cutter and not anything to write home about.
It's a decent and quick read that children will likely remember with nostalgia as they grow, even if it doesn't stand out as an exceptional work in the genre. For that reason, it really is the sort of book that’s easier to connect to when younger as there are many others that have accomplished the message in a more meaningful way.
I did find the narration difficult to get into, however, and had to restart it numerous times before I managed to finish the book. At times, I even considered DNFing. I think this is the sort of story that would work much better as graphic audio rather than a simple audiobook.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2020
What a delightful middle grade adventure! There's a functional family, a strong female protagonist, a realistic conflict, and a bit of magical realism thrown in for fun. Mattie Marvelwood, age 11, and her family all have "talents." Mattie can read minds, her mom can tell the future, her brother disappears, etc. When they join the circus and the ringmaster steals her brother's talent, Mattie realizes that she has to find a way to get it back. Despite the number one family rule that we never tell anyone our talents are real, Mattie knows that she can't do this alone. But when it turns out that Mattie's talent is the one the ringmaster is really after, will her plan still succeed, or will it put everyone, including her new friend Serena, in danger?
The narration was great, accurate accents and good pacing. It was easy to tell the characters apart and the narration never drew attention to itself and away from the story.
Disclaimer: I received a free audio book copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The narration was great, accurate accents and good pacing. It was easy to tell the characters apart and the narration never drew attention to itself and away from the story.
Disclaimer: I received a free audio book copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 22, 2020
This was the best book!! Mattie Marvelwood's family is traveling performers. After a rough beginning, they leave where they have been traveling. Where they end up just happens to have a circus getting ready to begin. The scoop on Mattie's family is that they all have powers that use in their act. Mattie can see what you are thinking, her brother has a vanishing act, her mother is a fortune teller and her father is an illusionist. Once they begin at this new circus, they find out that others might have their same kind of powers. They have always left places when they are found out. Will they leave? Will they use their powers to help others?
This book would be a wonderful read aloud for upper grades in elementary school. I also really enjoyed the narrator. She used her voice in a way that you felt like you were right in the middle of everything.
This book would be a wonderful read aloud for upper grades in elementary school. I also really enjoyed the narrator. She used her voice in a way that you felt like you were right in the middle of everything.
November 25, 2020
This was a very fun and adventurous middle grade book. I loved the atmosphere of this book. I definitely felt like I was at the circus. The characters were wonderful and I loved Maddie and her family. They are a close knit family and the message about family, community and friendship is beautiful. ^_^
I would love to see a sequel to this book sometime. Highly recommend to middle grade lovers.
I received a copy of the audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I would love to see a sequel to this book sometime. Highly recommend to middle grade lovers.
I received a copy of the audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2017
"You don't know what you've got, 'til it's gone." That is a song lyric, but it is also a truth in life. And Mattie Marvelwood finds that truth out the hard way. Her whole family have talents, psychic abilities which allow them to make a living working carnivals and fairs. Her father can cast illusions, her brother disappears, her mother sees the future, and Mattie can read minds. But Mattie just wants to be normal - live in a house, go to school, not see people's thoughts when she touches them.
While they are performing with a small circus in South Carolina, Mattie begins to notice something is going on with the other acts. First Julietta loses her singing voice, then Selena loses her grace and agility. She hears others talking about former members of the circus who mysteriously lost their gifts; there was the ringmaster who no longer had his commanding presence, the tumbler who lost her coordination, and the strongman who lost his strength. What is causing this? And if Mattie has the chance to get rid of her talent, will she take it?
The characters are interesting and the setting gives a view into what life on the road with a circus or carnival is like. Mattie's dilemma bring the age-appropriate themes of longing to fit in and the dread of being seen as different into sharp focus. And the kindly Audra gives some good advice to readers of all ages. "We just have to try for gratitude. to realize when we have enough."
Recommended for middle grade readers who enjoy fiction with a dash of the magical. I read a copy provided by the publisher for review purposes.
While they are performing with a small circus in South Carolina, Mattie begins to notice something is going on with the other acts. First Julietta loses her singing voice, then Selena loses her grace and agility. She hears others talking about former members of the circus who mysteriously lost their gifts; there was the ringmaster who no longer had his commanding presence, the tumbler who lost her coordination, and the strongman who lost his strength. What is causing this? And if Mattie has the chance to get rid of her talent, will she take it?
The characters are interesting and the setting gives a view into what life on the road with a circus or carnival is like. Mattie's dilemma bring the age-appropriate themes of longing to fit in and the dread of being seen as different into sharp focus. And the kindly Audra gives some good advice to readers of all ages. "We just have to try for gratitude. to realize when we have enough."
Recommended for middle grade readers who enjoy fiction with a dash of the magical. I read a copy provided by the publisher for review purposes.
July 22, 2021
I love small circus shows, so I hoped to like this book a lot more than I did. Sadly it was just passable. I kept putting it down and reading other things.
In the first place, a native Sumatran like Ahmad would never think or say that the forests of S. Carolina are anything like the Sumatran jungle, nor that they contain "similar prey animals", being as how in the US tapirs, monkeys, wild boar etc are in short supply. In the second place, I have serious doubts that a user like the ring master would take orders from an 11 year old girl, traveller's curse or no traveller's curse.
I've been looking for decent fantasy for a friend's middle school aged daughter, but I really can't recommend this. I know this book is fantasy but it didn't seem to know where it was going, beyond the "family is the most important thing" idea. It was a bit childish for kids the main character's age, and a bit dark for younger kids.
In the first place, a native Sumatran like Ahmad would never think or say that the forests of S. Carolina are anything like the Sumatran jungle, nor that they contain "similar prey animals", being as how in the US tapirs, monkeys, wild boar etc are in short supply. In the second place, I have serious doubts that a user like the ring master would take orders from an 11 year old girl, traveller's curse or no traveller's curse.
I've been looking for decent fantasy for a friend's middle school aged daughter, but I really can't recommend this. I know this book is fantasy but it didn't seem to know where it was going, beyond the "family is the most important thing" idea. It was a bit childish for kids the main character's age, and a bit dark for younger kids.
July 19, 2018
Oops, I never added this to Goodreads when I read it months ago. I remember liking the way the reader slowly figures out what Master Morogh is up to. But I also remember not loving the plotting of the big showdown.
September 11, 2020
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC Audiobook!
The Marvelwoods are a family of five traveling performers: Scottish father who creates illusions, Indian mother who sees the future, eleven-year-old Mattie who knows what people are thinking, nine-year-old brother who turns invisible, and four-year-old sister who levitates. But what people don’t know is that the Marvelwoods’ acts are real; the Marvelwoods have real magic. Mattie, though, doesn’t like knowing what people are thinking nor does she like always moving around and her mother’s strict rules. She wants friends her age and to go to an actual school. So when Marvelwoods join Morough’s Circus of Wonders and Mattie meets Selena, a girl her age, it feels like her wishes are coming true. But there is something creepy with Morough and with people suddenly losing their skills and acts. How should the Marvelwoods react: run for safety or risk exposure to beat the ringmaster at his own game?
This was such a cute story! Mattie is a realistic eleven-year-old whose problems will definitely resonate with young readers. But her dynamic story line is subtle enough so that her growth feels natural and well-paced. Also, the circus backdrop added such a fun element – and the perfect avenue to sprinkle in bits of magic in a realistic setting. Moreover, the narrator, Sarah Zimmermon, did a fantastic job with the father’s, Morough’s and Maya’s accents; I really felt the characters come to life! Finally, I loved the ultimate lesson that family comes first. All the Marvelwoods face lessons that redefine their knowledge of “family comes first” so that eventually they grow closer together as a family in a natural and emotional conclusion.
However, I never fully understood Morough’s devious plans. Yes, his backstory makes sense and the power to always know what people think make sounds attractive, but why Mattie’s talent? He wasn’t planning to abandon the circus so what could he really do by knowing people’s thoughts – especially since he’d have to remove his gloves to use his power and that’s something he only does when forced. I guess the climax felt like it was stressing his need for talents in general rather than revealing the expected evil ways he was going to abuse the talents, which in the end didn’t allow the climax to give its true potential.
Verdict: Cute and imaginative with timely lessons that will resonate with all readers.
The Marvelwoods are a family of five traveling performers: Scottish father who creates illusions, Indian mother who sees the future, eleven-year-old Mattie who knows what people are thinking, nine-year-old brother who turns invisible, and four-year-old sister who levitates. But what people don’t know is that the Marvelwoods’ acts are real; the Marvelwoods have real magic. Mattie, though, doesn’t like knowing what people are thinking nor does she like always moving around and her mother’s strict rules. She wants friends her age and to go to an actual school. So when Marvelwoods join Morough’s Circus of Wonders and Mattie meets Selena, a girl her age, it feels like her wishes are coming true. But there is something creepy with Morough and with people suddenly losing their skills and acts. How should the Marvelwoods react: run for safety or risk exposure to beat the ringmaster at his own game?
This was such a cute story! Mattie is a realistic eleven-year-old whose problems will definitely resonate with young readers. But her dynamic story line is subtle enough so that her growth feels natural and well-paced. Also, the circus backdrop added such a fun element – and the perfect avenue to sprinkle in bits of magic in a realistic setting. Moreover, the narrator, Sarah Zimmermon, did a fantastic job with the father’s, Morough’s and Maya’s accents; I really felt the characters come to life! Finally, I loved the ultimate lesson that family comes first. All the Marvelwoods face lessons that redefine their knowledge of “family comes first” so that eventually they grow closer together as a family in a natural and emotional conclusion.
However, I never fully understood Morough’s devious plans. Yes, his backstory makes sense and the power to always know what people think make sounds attractive, but why Mattie’s talent? He wasn’t planning to abandon the circus so what could he really do by knowing people’s thoughts – especially since he’d have to remove his gloves to use his power and that’s something he only does when forced. I guess the climax felt like it was stressing his need for talents in general rather than revealing the expected evil ways he was going to abuse the talents, which in the end didn’t allow the climax to give its true potential.
Verdict: Cute and imaginative with timely lessons that will resonate with all readers.
September 1, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley and Publisher Spotlight Audio/Live Oak Media for the ALC of this one.
Middle grade books! I’ll be honest. I haven’t had a lot of experience with middle grade novels since I was a middle grader, but I’m working to change that. Especially during these weird times, I’m trying to find more ways to incorporate fun, adventurous reading into my routine. I tend to stick to dramatic, depressing reads and or hard sci-fi/horror novels, which are also not the lightest fare. So, I started with this one. It was a good choice.
I’m a sucker for books set in circuses, carnivals, and or traveling shows. This one was a ton of fun! Eleven-year-old Mattie Marvelwood and her family are traveling performers. She can read minds, her father is an illusionist. Her mom tells fortunes, and her brother has a cool vanishing act, but they are all hiding a secret. Their powers are real! When they join Master Morogh’s Circus of Wonders, they find out they aren’t the only ones. Master Morogh is hiding his own secret; he steals the powers of others, and when he steals Maddie’s brother’s powers, they’ll have to decide to cut their losses and run, or stay and fight to recover his powers.
I am loving NetGalley shelf and the audiobook offerings. I read print when I can in the time of Rona, which has been way less time than I’d like, but I am still able to concentrate pretty well on audiobooks, so I have no trouble concentrating on them and devouring them. This was such a fun foray into middle grade, and it definitely made me want more.
The narration is solid, full of adventure. I love the tone and cadence as well as the pacing. It kept me engaged in the story and matched my own energy levels as Mattie and her family/friends battled for her brother’s powers and their future.
It’s out on October 1st, perfect timing for the ambiance of fall and the Halloween season. Is it fall yet? Can it be fall yet? I’m so tired of being a gross sweat bath all day everyday.
Middle grade books! I’ll be honest. I haven’t had a lot of experience with middle grade novels since I was a middle grader, but I’m working to change that. Especially during these weird times, I’m trying to find more ways to incorporate fun, adventurous reading into my routine. I tend to stick to dramatic, depressing reads and or hard sci-fi/horror novels, which are also not the lightest fare. So, I started with this one. It was a good choice.
I’m a sucker for books set in circuses, carnivals, and or traveling shows. This one was a ton of fun! Eleven-year-old Mattie Marvelwood and her family are traveling performers. She can read minds, her father is an illusionist. Her mom tells fortunes, and her brother has a cool vanishing act, but they are all hiding a secret. Their powers are real! When they join Master Morogh’s Circus of Wonders, they find out they aren’t the only ones. Master Morogh is hiding his own secret; he steals the powers of others, and when he steals Maddie’s brother’s powers, they’ll have to decide to cut their losses and run, or stay and fight to recover his powers.
I am loving NetGalley shelf and the audiobook offerings. I read print when I can in the time of Rona, which has been way less time than I’d like, but I am still able to concentrate pretty well on audiobooks, so I have no trouble concentrating on them and devouring them. This was such a fun foray into middle grade, and it definitely made me want more.
The narration is solid, full of adventure. I love the tone and cadence as well as the pacing. It kept me engaged in the story and matched my own energy levels as Mattie and her family/friends battled for her brother’s powers and their future.
It’s out on October 1st, perfect timing for the ambiance of fall and the Halloween season. Is it fall yet? Can it be fall yet? I’m so tired of being a gross sweat bath all day everyday.
September 21, 2020
Mattie Mavelwood's family travels from circus to circus performing. They each have special skills they work into the act. Mattie's father can cast illusions, her mother can tell the future, her brother can disappear and Mattie can read minds. But Mattie just wants to be normal. She wants to live in a house and go to school and make friends. When they join a circus with an acrobat her age, Mattie thinks she might have found a bit of home and a new friend. However, the circus master is stealing people's gifts. When he steals her brother's ability to disappear, Mattie must decide if she should risk everything to get it back, or if they should leave their newly-found community before more of them lose their gifts too.
This is a sweet coming-of-age novel dealing with identity, friendship, judging others and being judged. One of my favorite growing pains was Mattie learning to not feel judged by other kids and to embrace her differences as attributes. The story itself was not action-packed but it was a good blend of character- and plot-driven storylines. As an adult, it is not a book that will stick with me forever but it was enjoyable and one that I will lean heavily on for future recommendations.
The narrator did a great job using accents and vocal variation to distinguish between the different character's voices. The narrator's pace was excellent. Thank you to NetGalley and Live Oak Media for the advanced copy of this little gem!
This is a sweet coming-of-age novel dealing with identity, friendship, judging others and being judged. One of my favorite growing pains was Mattie learning to not feel judged by other kids and to embrace her differences as attributes. The story itself was not action-packed but it was a good blend of character- and plot-driven storylines. As an adult, it is not a book that will stick with me forever but it was enjoyable and one that I will lean heavily on for future recommendations.
The narrator did a great job using accents and vocal variation to distinguish between the different character's voices. The narrator's pace was excellent. Thank you to NetGalley and Live Oak Media for the advanced copy of this little gem!
August 14, 2020
What a wonderful middle grade book full of excitement and suspense!! This is the story of Mattie and her family, each of whom has a special power, powers that they travel around the country earning a living with. However, they keep their special talents secret to avoid any problems. Mattie is tired of being different, tired of keeping secrets, and most of all she wishes they had one place to call home where they could put down roots.
When their truck breaks down on the outskirts of a little town called Frog Creek, their lives change forever when they are hired by a circus that has just set up in town. Strange things start to happen though, especially when the ringmaster is around, and the circus folk have to band together with Mattie and her family to protect each other.
This story touched on everything: love, family, friendships, bravery, and growing up. The lessons learned in this book are numerous too - being different is ok, home is not always a place but rather the people who are part of your life, too much power can corrupt a person, and how sometimes you don’t appreciate something until you are in danger of losing it.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this audiobook. The narration was very good, and I would highly recommend this to children and adults alike.
When their truck breaks down on the outskirts of a little town called Frog Creek, their lives change forever when they are hired by a circus that has just set up in town. Strange things start to happen though, especially when the ringmaster is around, and the circus folk have to band together with Mattie and her family to protect each other.
This story touched on everything: love, family, friendships, bravery, and growing up. The lessons learned in this book are numerous too - being different is ok, home is not always a place but rather the people who are part of your life, too much power can corrupt a person, and how sometimes you don’t appreciate something until you are in danger of losing it.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this audiobook. The narration was very good, and I would highly recommend this to children and adults alike.
December 22, 2020
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book received in exchange for an honest review.
Marvelwood Magicians is the perfect book for a young teen. The book is told from the perspective of a young teenage girl, who travels with her family and works at a fair. Her whole family has unique abilities, which allows them to participate in fairs and circuses alike. After leaving their last job, they are welcomed into a circus with a very talented ring leader. Everything seems to be going perfectly for Mattie until Master Morogh steals her brother's talent.
Honestly, I'm glad I didn't really read the description for the book until after I read it. The description is pretty much 80% of the story. It was nice to not know where the story was headed or what Master Morogh was doing. This book was recommended to me by a friend, which is why I didn't read the description. If I had, this might have left to a lower rating on my end. As I was reading it, the only thing keeping me involved was trying to figure out how the story would unfold.
The author did a great job writing from the perspective of a young teen! I'm not sure any teen wants to feel out of place or different, so that was spot on. I did also appreciate the family dynamic and how nicely it wrapped up.
Marvelwood Magicians is the perfect book for a young teen. The book is told from the perspective of a young teenage girl, who travels with her family and works at a fair. Her whole family has unique abilities, which allows them to participate in fairs and circuses alike. After leaving their last job, they are welcomed into a circus with a very talented ring leader. Everything seems to be going perfectly for Mattie until Master Morogh steals her brother's talent.
Honestly, I'm glad I didn't really read the description for the book until after I read it. The description is pretty much 80% of the story. It was nice to not know where the story was headed or what Master Morogh was doing. This book was recommended to me by a friend, which is why I didn't read the description. If I had, this might have left to a lower rating on my end. As I was reading it, the only thing keeping me involved was trying to figure out how the story would unfold.
The author did a great job writing from the perspective of a young teen! I'm not sure any teen wants to feel out of place or different, so that was spot on. I did also appreciate the family dynamic and how nicely it wrapped up.
December 23, 2020
Like the circus itself, this book is an exciting adventure for all ages!
The Marvelwoods are a family with special powers. From Da all the way down to little Tibby, everyone has a talent. But Maddy finds herself wishing more and more that she wasn't always so "different". Her talent of mind-reading is a double edged sword. Not like her brother's ability to disappear or her little sister's ability to levitate.
When the Marvelwoods land a position in Master Morogh's Circus of Wonders, it seems like things could finally be looking up - until it becomes clear that Master Morogh is more than he appears to be, and is out to become even more by stealing talent from other people.
In the battle to stop Master Morogh, Maddy learns the importance of family, the strength of true friendship and what it means to belong. I recommend this book for any fans of circus fiction, young adult fiction, and books about family ties.
My favorite character was Tibby. For anyone who's ever had a much younger brother or sister, Tibby's personality quirks are so real and recognizable. She's absolutely adorable.
I received an audio copy of this book, and thoroughly enjoyed the narrator. She gave unique voices to all the characters, and did an excellent job with the accents for various nationalities.
The Marvelwoods are a family with special powers. From Da all the way down to little Tibby, everyone has a talent. But Maddy finds herself wishing more and more that she wasn't always so "different". Her talent of mind-reading is a double edged sword. Not like her brother's ability to disappear or her little sister's ability to levitate.
When the Marvelwoods land a position in Master Morogh's Circus of Wonders, it seems like things could finally be looking up - until it becomes clear that Master Morogh is more than he appears to be, and is out to become even more by stealing talent from other people.
In the battle to stop Master Morogh, Maddy learns the importance of family, the strength of true friendship and what it means to belong. I recommend this book for any fans of circus fiction, young adult fiction, and books about family ties.
My favorite character was Tibby. For anyone who's ever had a much younger brother or sister, Tibby's personality quirks are so real and recognizable. She's absolutely adorable.
I received an audio copy of this book, and thoroughly enjoyed the narrator. She gave unique voices to all the characters, and did an excellent job with the accents for various nationalities.
July 15, 2019
Mattie and her family each have a different supernatural talent. Mattie reads minds, her brother can disappear, her mother sees the future, her father can bring forth objects, and her younger sister levitates. No one knows their talents are real. They work the carnival and circus circuit, moving on when someone gets suspicious. Now they are with a circus run by the creepy hypnotist Master Morough. Employees are mysteriously losing their talents. When Mattie's brother loses his ability to disappear, she knows it has something to do with Morough. She makes a bargain she regrets, but she isn't going to let Morough get away with it.
This is a short book kids will like. Who doesn't love circuses and carnivals? Throw in some magic, a little hypnotism, and a creepy guy with ulterior motives, and you've got a winner. I personally have two problems with the book that kids will not notice. First, there was no mystery for me. I could see the ending a mile away. Mystery plots shouldn't be so easily discernible. Second, the ending is a letdown. For evil Mr. Morough to fall so easily is a plot shortcoming. Endings like this make me feel like the author got tired of writing the book. Still, it's short and has a nice cover. Good choice for reluctant readers.
This is a short book kids will like. Who doesn't love circuses and carnivals? Throw in some magic, a little hypnotism, and a creepy guy with ulterior motives, and you've got a winner. I personally have two problems with the book that kids will not notice. First, there was no mystery for me. I could see the ending a mile away. Mystery plots shouldn't be so easily discernible. Second, the ending is a letdown. For evil Mr. Morough to fall so easily is a plot shortcoming. Endings like this make me feel like the author got tired of writing the book. Still, it's short and has a nice cover. Good choice for reluctant readers.
December 6, 2020
Charming Audiobook
Even though I am far older than the middle graders this book is intended for, I found it charming and a lot of fun. It has magic and suspense that kept me wanting to listen to find out what happened to Mattie, her family, and the members of the circus troupe they had joined up with early in the story. Mattie is a relatable heroine for middle graders, as she sometimes feels at odds with her family—though she clearly loves every member of it—and desires to have connections to her peers and more normalcy in her life. The Marvelwood family, of which Mattie is a part, has real magic. The powers they exploit at fairs and in the circus are real, not illusions. The suspense has to do with a person who can take powers from people who honestly have them. What can Mattie and her new friends do about it? I did have issues with the narrator of this audiobook. Especially at the beginning, I thought she confused a Scottish and Irish accent for Mattie’s father, and her Indian accent for Mattie’s mother wasn't as crisp as it should have been. Despite these flaws, this was a fun book to listen to.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
Even though I am far older than the middle graders this book is intended for, I found it charming and a lot of fun. It has magic and suspense that kept me wanting to listen to find out what happened to Mattie, her family, and the members of the circus troupe they had joined up with early in the story. Mattie is a relatable heroine for middle graders, as she sometimes feels at odds with her family—though she clearly loves every member of it—and desires to have connections to her peers and more normalcy in her life. The Marvelwood family, of which Mattie is a part, has real magic. The powers they exploit at fairs and in the circus are real, not illusions. The suspense has to do with a person who can take powers from people who honestly have them. What can Mattie and her new friends do about it? I did have issues with the narrator of this audiobook. Especially at the beginning, I thought she confused a Scottish and Irish accent for Mattie’s father, and her Indian accent for Mattie’s mother wasn't as crisp as it should have been. Despite these flaws, this was a fun book to listen to.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
September 12, 2020
Mattie and her family travel around the country entertaining people with their acts. When their car breaks down, they have the opportunity to join a circus. Mattie is happy to finally make friends with a girl her own age. What no one knows is the family’s act is no act. Each member has a gift. Mattie’s gift is to know what someone else is thinking. She just has to be touching the other person. When the ringmaster never removes his gloves, Mattie is suspicious. When the letter performs begin to lose their talents, Mattie wants to find out what is happening. Will Mattie and her family stay at the circus? Will she be able to discover how the talents are disappearing without losing her own?
This magical realism filled mystery Was a complete pleasure. Sarah Zimmerman’s narration is impeccable. Her voices are distinct, and her pacing spot on. I plan to purchase both the audio and the print versions for my middle school library. This book will appeal to my mystery lovers and fantasy fans alike.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
This magical realism filled mystery Was a complete pleasure. Sarah Zimmerman’s narration is impeccable. Her voices are distinct, and her pacing spot on. I plan to purchase both the audio and the print versions for my middle school library. This book will appeal to my mystery lovers and fantasy fans alike.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2021
This is a Netgalley review.
When I saw there was a new book from Diane Zahler available I had to jump atthr opportunity to read it, or in this specific case, listen to the audio book. I thoroughly enjoyed this narrator, Sarah Zimmerman, and the occasional background circus music that really added to the atmosphere. This was five hours that I split into about three readings and enjoyed thoroughly as the action was fast paced and the characters were just complex enough. My girls overheard bits of the story as I was listening and have asked to be able to get it for us to listen to again and again. As I know how they feel about "Sleeping Beauty's Daughters," I am not surprised. This was quite the cast of characters and I think many good discussions and parallels to life can be found in this middle grade fantasy.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the access of an audio book recordingmfor review.
When I saw there was a new book from Diane Zahler available I had to jump atthr opportunity to read it, or in this specific case, listen to the audio book. I thoroughly enjoyed this narrator, Sarah Zimmerman, and the occasional background circus music that really added to the atmosphere. This was five hours that I split into about three readings and enjoyed thoroughly as the action was fast paced and the characters were just complex enough. My girls overheard bits of the story as I was listening and have asked to be able to get it for us to listen to again and again. As I know how they feel about "Sleeping Beauty's Daughters," I am not surprised. This was quite the cast of characters and I think many good discussions and parallels to life can be found in this middle grade fantasy.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the access of an audio book recordingmfor review.
October 12, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and Publisher Spotlight Audio for this audiobook in exchange for a review. This book was INCREDIBLE!!! I am an absolute sucker for anything having to do with magic or the circus. This books combines incredible magical talents, like mind reading and disappearing, with the extraordinary circus acts of acrobatics and tiger training, into an unforgettable middle grade novel. The narrator for the audio version is amazing with all the different accents and dialects you know when each character is talking as if there are 7 different narrators! All of the characters are dynamic and captivating in a way that makes you unable to put it down, or in my case unable to stop listening. This book is filled with adventure and mystery and it's also packed with emotions and kindness. Overall this is a five star book about acceptance and friendship and most of family.
August 20, 2020
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy to review. All opinions are my own.
I am always curious when it comes to circus themed books. The covers are eye-catching and the blurbs are full of mystery!
When I saw this one as an audiobook on NetGalley I decided to request. It is a quick listen but it also has a lot to it.
Mattie Marvelwood and her family have always been different. They perform and even though others may be faking their skills, the Marvelwoods are the real deal! Because of this, they have a hard time trusting others. Mattie already feels like a freak and she doesn’t need to add more fuel to the fire of her life.
Although Mattie is eleven, I thought she was a bit older because of the way she presented herself. Maybe that’s just me since I haven’t been around someone that age in a long while. Like any other kid, she wants to fit in and have a normal life. Her family’s job does prevent normality. All of her concerns for who she is does make up a good part of the plot which I liked. She learns to overcome these things and realize that there is nothing wrong with being different. You can make friends being who you are.
As mentioned above, there is also talk about her family not trusting anyone due to an issue in the past with a friend. This is another topic that I liked. It takes courage to trust in someone again after getting hurt. It also shows true friendship.
The villain aspect of the book was nicely done. There is no redemption arc and we see that person for who they are. Their background does center around not fitting and correlates with Mattie in a good way. It shows that there are many paths in life and our choices can have consequences.
When it comes to the audiobook, the narrator does a good job with the accents for certain characters and it’s pretty easy to distinguish between the characters. There is fun circus music at the beginning and end which is a cool touch.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and thought the circus theme was nicely done with good messages included in the plot.
I am always curious when it comes to circus themed books. The covers are eye-catching and the blurbs are full of mystery!
When I saw this one as an audiobook on NetGalley I decided to request. It is a quick listen but it also has a lot to it.
Mattie Marvelwood and her family have always been different. They perform and even though others may be faking their skills, the Marvelwoods are the real deal! Because of this, they have a hard time trusting others. Mattie already feels like a freak and she doesn’t need to add more fuel to the fire of her life.
Although Mattie is eleven, I thought she was a bit older because of the way she presented herself. Maybe that’s just me since I haven’t been around someone that age in a long while. Like any other kid, she wants to fit in and have a normal life. Her family’s job does prevent normality. All of her concerns for who she is does make up a good part of the plot which I liked. She learns to overcome these things and realize that there is nothing wrong with being different. You can make friends being who you are.
As mentioned above, there is also talk about her family not trusting anyone due to an issue in the past with a friend. This is another topic that I liked. It takes courage to trust in someone again after getting hurt. It also shows true friendship.
The villain aspect of the book was nicely done. There is no redemption arc and we see that person for who they are. Their background does center around not fitting and correlates with Mattie in a good way. It shows that there are many paths in life and our choices can have consequences.
When it comes to the audiobook, the narrator does a good job with the accents for certain characters and it’s pretty easy to distinguish between the characters. There is fun circus music at the beginning and end which is a cool touch.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and thought the circus theme was nicely done with good messages included in the plot.
Read
November 1, 2020A pleasant listen, featuring a sweet main character who so badly wants a home, stability and a friend. Mattie can read minds and her family all has special talents too. They're always on the move and join up with a traveling circus and shenanigans and some chaos ensue!
It's a sweet story to listen to with kids and the ending was very gratifying. I appreciate the full circle moment with Mom and how the book touched upon sensitivity around the word "gypsy" in an authentic way.
The only part I didn't care for was how the tiger story resolved. No spoilers, but I will note, if you're sensitive like me, that they don't get hurt. I just wanted something different for them!
Thank you, Netgalley.
It's a sweet story to listen to with kids and the ending was very gratifying. I appreciate the full circle moment with Mom and how the book touched upon sensitivity around the word "gypsy" in an authentic way.
The only part I didn't care for was how the tiger story resolved. No spoilers, but I will note, if you're sensitive like me, that they don't get hurt. I just wanted something different for them!
Thank you, Netgalley.
November 20, 2024
If you have a thing for fantasy and humans having unique powers, this is a book for you.
If you have a thing for circuses and the people who make the show what it is, this is for you.
This is a great book about learning to love yourself, taking consequences for actions, coming of age, and settling into a gratitude mindset.
The characters are stereotypical at the surface but loveable. Mattie’s character building was enjoyable and well paced.
I would have loved to see more out of Tibby. That could make a good sequel; traveling circus adventures and how the show morphed after the final chapter of this book.
If you have a thing for circuses and the people who make the show what it is, this is for you.
This is a great book about learning to love yourself, taking consequences for actions, coming of age, and settling into a gratitude mindset.
The characters are stereotypical at the surface but loveable. Mattie’s character building was enjoyable and well paced.
I would have loved to see more out of Tibby. That could make a good sequel; traveling circus adventures and how the show morphed after the final chapter of this book.
August 14, 2020
Mattie and her family are traveling performers. They have a big secret that their acts are real. They join a circus and the masters talent is to steal others talents. They have to fight to get them back
The Marvelwood Magicians Is a an adventure story. Perfect for young kids or middle school aged. The main character is 11. Lots of excitement. I really enjoyed it and now my tweens will also.
Thank you Netgalley, Diane Zanler and publisher spotlight audio for this fun audio ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The Marvelwood Magicians Is a an adventure story. Perfect for young kids or middle school aged. The main character is 11. Lots of excitement. I really enjoyed it and now my tweens will also.
Thank you Netgalley, Diane Zanler and publisher spotlight audio for this fun audio ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 22, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley for an audio ARC in return for my own opinions.
This book was such a joy to listen to. The narration was remarkable. The narrator was able to distinguish the different characters with unique voices. This book may be aimed at middle schoolers, but I enjoyed it very much. The story was engaging and interesting. It gives you yet another look into what the life might have been like on the road with a carnival or with the circus. That life was not easy, but it was very colorful.
This book was such a joy to listen to. The narration was remarkable. The narrator was able to distinguish the different characters with unique voices. This book may be aimed at middle schoolers, but I enjoyed it very much. The story was engaging and interesting. It gives you yet another look into what the life might have been like on the road with a carnival or with the circus. That life was not easy, but it was very colorful.
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