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Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found
Magic has all but disappeared in Brooklyn, but one tenacious young magician is determined to bring it back in this exciting middle grade mystery.
Kingston has just moved from the suburbs back to Echo City, Brooklyn--the last place his father was seen alive. Kingston's father was King Preston, one of the world's greatest magicians. Until one trick went wrong and he disappeared. Now that Kingston is back in Echo City, he's determined to find his father. Somehow, though, when his father disappeared, he took all of Echo City's magic with him. Now Echo City--a ghost of its past--is living up to its name. With no magic left, the magicians have packed up and left town and those who've stayed behind don't look too kindly on any who reminds them of what they once had. When Kingston finds a magic box his father left behind as a clue, Kingston knows there's more to his father's disappearance than meets the eye. He'll have to keep it a secret--that is, until he can restore magic to Echo City. With his cousin Veronica and childhood friend Too Tall Eddie, Kingston works to solve the clues, but one wrong move and his father might not be the only one who goes missing.
Kingston has just moved from the suburbs back to Echo City, Brooklyn--the last place his father was seen alive. Kingston's father was King Preston, one of the world's greatest magicians. Until one trick went wrong and he disappeared. Now that Kingston is back in Echo City, he's determined to find his father. Somehow, though, when his father disappeared, he took all of Echo City's magic with him. Now Echo City--a ghost of its past--is living up to its name. With no magic left, the magicians have packed up and left town and those who've stayed behind don't look too kindly on any who reminds them of what they once had. When Kingston finds a magic box his father left behind as a clue, Kingston knows there's more to his father's disappearance than meets the eye. He'll have to keep it a secret--that is, until he can restore magic to Echo City. With his cousin Veronica and childhood friend Too Tall Eddie, Kingston works to solve the clues, but one wrong move and his father might not be the only one who goes missing.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published February 16, 2021
15 people are currently reading
1333 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
April 28, 2022
First off, who told this Middle Grade book it could be this freaking entertaining? This title can rumble toe to toe with the best of the fantasy genre with plenty of crossover appeal for strictly YA readers.
February 15, 2021
I think the charm of Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found is not only the fictionalized setting of Echo City, but how the magic within the story is based on a form of parallel worlds or realms. People are able to move from the real world into an alternate realm but this shifting contributes to the threat of shattering all of reality. The magic gets kind of tricky but it's fascinating as well. I especially enjoyed the analogy of the magical realm being similar to the glass of an aquarium, protecting the release of gallons of water. And especially all of the coded messages that Kingston deciphered. Overall this was a very enjoyable read, I can see this appealing to kids who enjoy solving coded word puzzles, magical illusions, alternate realms and just the right amount of magic and mystery.
** Thank you to G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers and MB Communications for kindly sending me my review copy.**
** Thank you to G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers and MB Communications for kindly sending me my review copy.**
February 21, 2021
Rating: 4 ⭐️
Kingston and the Magician’s Lost and Found is a fun middle grade read! It stars Kingston, whose father disappeared four and half years ago. Everyone thinks his father left, but Kingston knows the truth - his father disappeared into a mirror.
Kingston is a likable main character. I think middle grade readers will really be able to relate him and his persistence! His friend Too Tall and cousin Veronica also shine as supportive sleuthing partners.
My main critique is that I wish the book was longer. Moses and Gangi set up a fascinating world with a lot of potential, and I hope we will see more of Echo City in the future.
Thank you Megan Beatie Communications for sending me an advanced copy of Kingston and the Magician’s Lost and Found!
Kingston and the Magician’s Lost and Found is a fun middle grade read! It stars Kingston, whose father disappeared four and half years ago. Everyone thinks his father left, but Kingston knows the truth - his father disappeared into a mirror.
Kingston is a likable main character. I think middle grade readers will really be able to relate him and his persistence! His friend Too Tall and cousin Veronica also shine as supportive sleuthing partners.
My main critique is that I wish the book was longer. Moses and Gangi set up a fascinating world with a lot of potential, and I hope we will see more of Echo City in the future.
Thank you Megan Beatie Communications for sending me an advanced copy of Kingston and the Magician’s Lost and Found!
September 19, 2022
Fast paced - lots of interest factors for Year 7/8
February 16, 2021
What lengths would you be willing to go in order to find a missing loved one? Would you defy those still aching from profound loss? Would you throw yourself and others into uncharted danger? Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found by Rucker Moses and Theo Gangi is an enchanting and heartfelt Urban Fantasy tale best characterized by its authenticity. An account of unwavering determination and resolve, readers follow a young boy's hunt to find his father who disappeared years prior, regardless of the excuses and reasoning consistently tossed his way. Although ticketed as a story for younger readers, it's easy for all ages to get swept along on this journey for the truth, filled to the brim with coded secrets, peril, and magical ongoings.
At the heart of this tale lies a family torn asunder by the disappearance of a loved one. Each member of the James family is coping with heartache in their own way, whether by jumping straight into the frying pan, secretly working behind closed doors, or just hoping that moving on will dull the pain. The story is told through the eyes of Kingston, a 12-year-old boy who can see there's more than meets the eye, and he makes it his mission to find out what lies beyond the veil. Returning to his old haunt in Echo City after years away, he's drawn to where the lives of so many changed. With his snarky cousin and enthusiastic childhood friend in tow, King perfectly portrays the reckless abandon of youth when one sets their mind to something they deeply believe in. While I can't condone his actions for endangering himself and his companions, King's courage is surely something special to behold.
As mentioned, this story takes place in Echo City, Brooklyn, a neighborhood with a rich and exciting history, but one that has suffered the sands of time. Once-grand theaters lie in broken ruin, mom-and-pop and novelty shops forced to close their doors, the authors bring the setting to life in such a beautiful and tangible way, making it an entity in and of itself. The inclusion of the history of magic, especially shining the spotlight on actual historical figures within the black community I've personally never learned about, only adds to the depth and charm of the city built around us. There are secrets and mysteries tucked away in all the nooks and crannies – we get but a taste of what Echo City has to offer, and I'd love to learn more.
The concept that real magic exists is the basis of this book's entire plot, and while the majority lives in denial, King refuses to give in. I don't want to give away too much here, but I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the magic system, which pivots this story into the realm of Sci-Fi; the idea that there exists an inter-dimensional space is something I wasn't expecting, but I truly appreciated its inclusion. The inner-workings do become a bit complex, but the authors develop and describe everything in a way that allows readers to visualize, making it easier for all the puzzle pieces to fall into place.
Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found is a story that immediately piqued my interest once it was brought to my attention, and I'm thrilled I was given the chance to read this one early. It's an easily accessible narrative told with modern flair, but still holds onto the allure and charm of the past with a feeling of nostalgia, especially for older readers. While the book does have a bit of a slow build-up, the realities of this alternate version of our own world come to light in an explosive and poignant way, with a depth I honestly wasn't expecting. If you're looking to bring a little bit of magic back into your life, I highly suggest you give this one a try. I'm very much looking forward to more magical adventures throughout Echo City alongside Kingston.
At the heart of this tale lies a family torn asunder by the disappearance of a loved one. Each member of the James family is coping with heartache in their own way, whether by jumping straight into the frying pan, secretly working behind closed doors, or just hoping that moving on will dull the pain. The story is told through the eyes of Kingston, a 12-year-old boy who can see there's more than meets the eye, and he makes it his mission to find out what lies beyond the veil. Returning to his old haunt in Echo City after years away, he's drawn to where the lives of so many changed. With his snarky cousin and enthusiastic childhood friend in tow, King perfectly portrays the reckless abandon of youth when one sets their mind to something they deeply believe in. While I can't condone his actions for endangering himself and his companions, King's courage is surely something special to behold.
As mentioned, this story takes place in Echo City, Brooklyn, a neighborhood with a rich and exciting history, but one that has suffered the sands of time. Once-grand theaters lie in broken ruin, mom-and-pop and novelty shops forced to close their doors, the authors bring the setting to life in such a beautiful and tangible way, making it an entity in and of itself. The inclusion of the history of magic, especially shining the spotlight on actual historical figures within the black community I've personally never learned about, only adds to the depth and charm of the city built around us. There are secrets and mysteries tucked away in all the nooks and crannies – we get but a taste of what Echo City has to offer, and I'd love to learn more.
The concept that real magic exists is the basis of this book's entire plot, and while the majority lives in denial, King refuses to give in. I don't want to give away too much here, but I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the magic system, which pivots this story into the realm of Sci-Fi; the idea that there exists an inter-dimensional space is something I wasn't expecting, but I truly appreciated its inclusion. The inner-workings do become a bit complex, but the authors develop and describe everything in a way that allows readers to visualize, making it easier for all the puzzle pieces to fall into place.
Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found is a story that immediately piqued my interest once it was brought to my attention, and I'm thrilled I was given the chance to read this one early. It's an easily accessible narrative told with modern flair, but still holds onto the allure and charm of the past with a feeling of nostalgia, especially for older readers. While the book does have a bit of a slow build-up, the realities of this alternate version of our own world come to light in an explosive and poignant way, with a depth I honestly wasn't expecting. If you're looking to bring a little bit of magic back into your life, I highly suggest you give this one a try. I'm very much looking forward to more magical adventures throughout Echo City alongside Kingston.
March 16, 2021
A fun, magical adventure for young readers that I can highly recommend to my ten-year-old and enjoy watching him continue to discover the magic of reading.
Kingston Preston has moved back home after being away from Echo City, Brooklyn for the past four years. When he was eight and his magician father disappeared during one of his tricks, his mother took them both away. Being in a place so full of magic and reminders was too much for her to take. Now that they are back home, Kingston is ready to find out what happened to his father. When King disappeared, magic in Echo City went with him. Magic is frowned upon now in the city and Kingston finds a magic box left behind that gives him clues as to what happened to his father. He can’t tell his mother about his find and so he works with his cousin, Veronica, and old childhood friend, Too Tall Eddie, to find out the mystery of what happened to his father.
Kingston and the Magician’s Lost and Found was a breath of fresh air. I read this so I would know if it would be a good fit for my ten-year-old to read. I have to say that not only will I let my son read it, but I really enjoyed reading it! The story was good, fast-paced, and entertaining. The characters were engaging and kept me interested in the story and what they were going through. There is magic, code breaking, a family torn apart and a battle against good and evil. Kingston and his mom have had a good relationship but they both have missed his dad since he disappeared and being back where it happened is hard on them both. I love the secondary characters and how they brought a little extra humor to the tense situations. Too Tall Eddie was probably one of my favorite characters.
The story wrapped up nicely but has been left open solidly for more to come. I’m not sure if this is planned as a series and if so, how many, but there is definitely more story to be told here. One of the best things about this book was that it was fast paced, suspenseful but also clean. I don’t have to worry about harsh language or mature themes that would not be appropriate when my son reads it. I recommend this to middle grade readers and even parents for a fun family read with good family values, good vs. evil and to just enjoy the magic of reading.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
Kingston Preston has moved back home after being away from Echo City, Brooklyn for the past four years. When he was eight and his magician father disappeared during one of his tricks, his mother took them both away. Being in a place so full of magic and reminders was too much for her to take. Now that they are back home, Kingston is ready to find out what happened to his father. When King disappeared, magic in Echo City went with him. Magic is frowned upon now in the city and Kingston finds a magic box left behind that gives him clues as to what happened to his father. He can’t tell his mother about his find and so he works with his cousin, Veronica, and old childhood friend, Too Tall Eddie, to find out the mystery of what happened to his father.
Kingston and the Magician’s Lost and Found was a breath of fresh air. I read this so I would know if it would be a good fit for my ten-year-old to read. I have to say that not only will I let my son read it, but I really enjoyed reading it! The story was good, fast-paced, and entertaining. The characters were engaging and kept me interested in the story and what they were going through. There is magic, code breaking, a family torn apart and a battle against good and evil. Kingston and his mom have had a good relationship but they both have missed his dad since he disappeared and being back where it happened is hard on them both. I love the secondary characters and how they brought a little extra humor to the tense situations. Too Tall Eddie was probably one of my favorite characters.
The story wrapped up nicely but has been left open solidly for more to come. I’m not sure if this is planned as a series and if so, how many, but there is definitely more story to be told here. One of the best things about this book was that it was fast paced, suspenseful but also clean. I don’t have to worry about harsh language or mature themes that would not be appropriate when my son reads it. I recommend this to middle grade readers and even parents for a fun family read with good family values, good vs. evil and to just enjoy the magic of reading.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
May 2, 2022
This entertaining middle grade fantasy novel transports readers right into the heart of Echo City, Brooklyn, the main setting for this unusual tale. Kingston returns to Echo City after four years away. But those four years haven't erased Kingston's memories of the night his father, a famous magician vanished. And despite his mother's best efforts, Kingston can't help but be drawn back to the place it happened, especially after seeing a strange shadow inside. What he doesn't expect is to discover his father's Magician's Lost and Found box while wandering through the old burnt-out theater. Soon, Kingston, his cousin, Veronica, and his friend, Too Tall, find themselves facing a chance to find and save Kingston's father. But someone else wants the box, and Kingston, Veronica, and Eddie quickly find themselves in way over their heads trying to learn how to use the real magic they've gained access to, without losing themselves and completely trapping Kingston's father in the process.
The authors have certainly created an entertaining story that moves quickly and intensely toward a powerful climax. Echo City comes to life through the eyes and experiences of Kingston and his friends. The story picks up dramatically once Kingston comes across his father's box and discovers there might be a way to bring his father home. The magical realm that they discover makes for an interesting addition to the story. And it's different than any I've read about before in the way it works. Having black protagonists and characters inspired by real life magicians makes the book stand out even more. While there are a growing number of fantasies with BIPOC characters, there still aren't enough, so this is a great one to add to the list. I did appreciate the fact that though the kids are at the center of the story, they get some great help and advice from the adults in their lives. An exciting story for young readers who love stories about young people who have to step up and save the day.
The authors have certainly created an entertaining story that moves quickly and intensely toward a powerful climax. Echo City comes to life through the eyes and experiences of Kingston and his friends. The story picks up dramatically once Kingston comes across his father's box and discovers there might be a way to bring his father home. The magical realm that they discover makes for an interesting addition to the story. And it's different than any I've read about before in the way it works. Having black protagonists and characters inspired by real life magicians makes the book stand out even more. While there are a growing number of fantasies with BIPOC characters, there still aren't enough, so this is a great one to add to the list. I did appreciate the fact that though the kids are at the center of the story, they get some great help and advice from the adults in their lives. An exciting story for young readers who love stories about young people who have to step up and save the day.
March 7, 2022
This is a fun, fast-paced story with great characters, a dangerous antagonist and an imaginative premise. I absolutely loved the magic show premise, and that Kingston's father disappeared during a performance.
Kingston is a great character and I loved his determination to find out what happened to his father.
The story has a lot of great elements: mystery, a disappearance, rival magicians, magic, a dangerous opponent, and an invisible hand (because it is mostly stuck in another world/dimension). The characters are well-drawn, and I loved Kingston’s eccentric family.
Given the book is written by three people, so I was impressed how smoothly it flowed. I was slightly disappointed with the resolution, but it is obviously set up for a sequel.
Kingston is a great character and I loved his determination to find out what happened to his father.
The story has a lot of great elements: mystery, a disappearance, rival magicians, magic, a dangerous opponent, and an invisible hand (because it is mostly stuck in another world/dimension). The characters are well-drawn, and I loved Kingston’s eccentric family.
Given the book is written by three people, so I was impressed how smoothly it flowed. I was slightly disappointed with the resolution, but it is obviously set up for a sequel.
February 28, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. I finished it in one evening.
We follow Kingston who moved back to Brooklyn and tries to find his father who disappeared during a magic trick there, after having spent the years in between living somewhere else where there are no magicians and everyone thinks his dad just left. There is also a recurring theme of mirrors creating more worlds (not even just literally).
Also, I love how much actual history is referenced in it. There were a lot of Black magicians back in the day who actually existed who were talked about in this book, including one who was actually the first famous American magician.
We follow Kingston who moved back to Brooklyn and tries to find his father who disappeared during a magic trick there, after having spent the years in between living somewhere else where there are no magicians and everyone thinks his dad just left. There is also a recurring theme of mirrors creating more worlds (not even just literally).
Also, I love how much actual history is referenced in it. There were a lot of Black magicians back in the day who actually existed who were talked about in this book, including one who was actually the first famous American magician.
January 13, 2022
Kids who believe in magic will love this!
January 10, 2021
I received a copy of Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found is a new middle grade novel, one that hopes to open up a world of imagination and magic to a younger audience. It's written by Rucker Moses and Theo Gangi, the pseudonyms for Craig Phillips and Harold Hayes, Jr.
Kingston has always loved magic. Even when it was that very love that took away his father. You see, one moment he was there, on the stage. The next he was gone. Yet Kingston still feels a connection there, and a hope that his father will come back, one day.
Now that Kingston is back in Echo City, the hunt for his father – and all of his secrets – is about to begin in earnest. However, even Kingston's imagination wouldn't have been able to predict everything he's about to discover.
“She looks at me with that side-eye and headshake like, look at this kid.
Nuts like his father.”
Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found is a fun and fast-paced read, one that I think (and hope) a lot of young readers will enjoy. Especially those that love adventure, magic, and any combination of the two.
I honestly adored the focus on Kingston and his missing father. It single-handedly added such a human element, while still carrying such a strong air of intrigue and mystery. It takes a while for the full story to become revealed, and that just further adds to the mystery of it all.
Likewise, the blurring of the lines between real and magical was brilliantly done. One moment Kingston is grounded in the real world. In Brooklyn. The next, he's off in another realm. Or he's in a stranger border between the two. It was enchanting, on every level.
This is a novel that starts out slow, taking the time to introduce the characters, plot, and all the conflict found within. But it quickly picks up the pace, until the readers are in the middle of a whirlwind adventure. Personally, that is the perfect order of pacing in my mind, and it made for an ideal experience here.
Ultimately, I really can't recommend Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found enough, especially for any readers looking to try something new and different. Bonus points for making a read that both adults and younger readers can enjoy here (though the focus, naturally, is on a younger audience).
Check out more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found is a new middle grade novel, one that hopes to open up a world of imagination and magic to a younger audience. It's written by Rucker Moses and Theo Gangi, the pseudonyms for Craig Phillips and Harold Hayes, Jr.
Kingston has always loved magic. Even when it was that very love that took away his father. You see, one moment he was there, on the stage. The next he was gone. Yet Kingston still feels a connection there, and a hope that his father will come back, one day.
Now that Kingston is back in Echo City, the hunt for his father – and all of his secrets – is about to begin in earnest. However, even Kingston's imagination wouldn't have been able to predict everything he's about to discover.
“She looks at me with that side-eye and headshake like, look at this kid.
Nuts like his father.”
Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found is a fun and fast-paced read, one that I think (and hope) a lot of young readers will enjoy. Especially those that love adventure, magic, and any combination of the two.
I honestly adored the focus on Kingston and his missing father. It single-handedly added such a human element, while still carrying such a strong air of intrigue and mystery. It takes a while for the full story to become revealed, and that just further adds to the mystery of it all.
Likewise, the blurring of the lines between real and magical was brilliantly done. One moment Kingston is grounded in the real world. In Brooklyn. The next, he's off in another realm. Or he's in a stranger border between the two. It was enchanting, on every level.
This is a novel that starts out slow, taking the time to introduce the characters, plot, and all the conflict found within. But it quickly picks up the pace, until the readers are in the middle of a whirlwind adventure. Personally, that is the perfect order of pacing in my mind, and it made for an ideal experience here.
Ultimately, I really can't recommend Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found enough, especially for any readers looking to try something new and different. Bonus points for making a read that both adults and younger readers can enjoy here (though the focus, naturally, is on a younger audience).
Check out more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
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February 16, 2021I mean, a book about magicians is bound to be good. And make it a middle grade book and you know it’ll be a hit! But what I really like is that there is diversity in this middle grade story. Plus there’s so much adventure and fun found within these pages. And it’s really just an enjoyable story.
It seems like I’m in a middle grade mood lately and I’m really happy I’ve been checking out some of these books recently because I’ve come to the realization that it has been a LONG time since I’ve kept up to date with middle grade books. Which is a shame because some of the most popular books out there are middle grade. And I mean, I feel this is when a love for reading really flourishes, so good books are bound to come. And Kingston is such an excellent addition to this list of good middle grade books. There were just so many elements to it that really amplified the importance and quality of the story.
I really enjoyed this one and look forward to seeing what this collection of authors comes up with next. This was such a magical read but there was also so much more to it. I can see many people falling in love with this one and think it’d be quite popular amongst all of the middle schoolers.
You can view my full review & giveaway on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
It seems like I’m in a middle grade mood lately and I’m really happy I’ve been checking out some of these books recently because I’ve come to the realization that it has been a LONG time since I’ve kept up to date with middle grade books. Which is a shame because some of the most popular books out there are middle grade. And I mean, I feel this is when a love for reading really flourishes, so good books are bound to come. And Kingston is such an excellent addition to this list of good middle grade books. There were just so many elements to it that really amplified the importance and quality of the story.
I really enjoyed this one and look forward to seeing what this collection of authors comes up with next. This was such a magical read but there was also so much more to it. I can see many people falling in love with this one and think it’d be quite popular amongst all of the middle schoolers.
You can view my full review & giveaway on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
May 4, 2021
Four and a half years ago, King’s father disappeared through a mirror during his magic show. Not long after, King and his mother left Echo City, Brooklyn for the suburbs. Now they’re moving back to Echo City to help his uncles save their home, a brownstone with the old magic shop on the first floor. King is determined to find out what really happened to his father, and discover if there’s any magic left in Echo City.
I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical at first, but this book drew me in. Great pacing and character development made it hard to put down. Highly recommended, particularly for middle grade fantasy readers who aren’t as into epic fantasy. Readalikes (from a slightly foggy memory): Alcatraz Versus the Evil Librarians by Brandon Sanderson, and So You Want to Be a Wizard by Diane Duane.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical at first, but this book drew me in. Great pacing and character development made it hard to put down. Highly recommended, particularly for middle grade fantasy readers who aren’t as into epic fantasy. Readalikes (from a slightly foggy memory): Alcatraz Versus the Evil Librarians by Brandon Sanderson, and So You Want to Be a Wizard by Diane Duane.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
July 22, 2021
Kingston and his mother moved away from Echo City when his father disappeared. Now 4 years later they have moved back to open a restaurant. Kingston wanders the town reminded of his father and how he disappeared in front of his own eyes. Kingston soon discovers that magic is real and his father disappeared for a good reason. Kingston finds out that he might be able to bring him back.
The book is pretty fast-paced and is very original. The magic rules used are very different than other books. The four elements are spoken of but they are not the elements that you would normally think of. This made the book confusing and interesting at the same time. Your expecting one thing and get another.
While I liked the different world and the magic, I feel like I needed more info and more history. How did the father and his brothers learn magic was real and when? What exactly was the reason for the father to sacrifice himself? Just so many questions but I guess that is what the next book (and others) will hopefully answer.
Kingston And The Magicians Lost And Found was enjoyable and I would like to read the sequel. Kids who enjoy magicians and fantasy magic will like this series.
The book is pretty fast-paced and is very original. The magic rules used are very different than other books. The four elements are spoken of but they are not the elements that you would normally think of. This made the book confusing and interesting at the same time. Your expecting one thing and get another.
While I liked the different world and the magic, I feel like I needed more info and more history. How did the father and his brothers learn magic was real and when? What exactly was the reason for the father to sacrifice himself? Just so many questions but I guess that is what the next book (and others) will hopefully answer.
Kingston And The Magicians Lost And Found was enjoyable and I would like to read the sequel. Kids who enjoy magicians and fantasy magic will like this series.
February 8, 2021
This middle grade fantasy/mystery novel is full of magic and full of heart!
This was so fun to read. It's light and mysterious, but it was also very heartfelt especially since family was a big theme in the book. It was also filled with adventure (although I really wanted to see more thrill.) and plot twists! (I have to hand it to the authors, there were a couple of twists I didn't see!) Best of all was the magic/history of magic! When I was younger, I had a phase when I was so into magic and magicians! So seeing all the history of magic, especially of Black magicians incorporated into the story was really wonderful.
Overall, this was a great read and I'm sure both kids and adults will love this book! Full review on my blog soon!
Thank you so much MBC Books for sending me an ARC! This, of course, did not affect my overall opinion of the book.
Find me elsewhere: Instagram | Twitter | Blog
This was so fun to read. It's light and mysterious, but it was also very heartfelt especially since family was a big theme in the book. It was also filled with adventure (although I really wanted to see more thrill.) and plot twists! (I have to hand it to the authors, there were a couple of twists I didn't see!) Best of all was the magic/history of magic! When I was younger, I had a phase when I was so into magic and magicians! So seeing all the history of magic, especially of Black magicians incorporated into the story was really wonderful.
Overall, this was a great read and I'm sure both kids and adults will love this book! Full review on my blog soon!
Thank you so much MBC Books for sending me an ARC! This, of course, did not affect my overall opinion of the book.
Find me elsewhere: Instagram | Twitter | Blog
April 18, 2024
This is probably not the type of book I would pick up to read now, but I could see even a much younger adult version of myself liking this book. There's mystery, adventure, evil, and magic. Who can resist that.
Kingston's dad has crashed through a mirror into "the Realm" having been involved in a magic trick that has gone horribly wrong. Kingston and his mother are in the audience when it happens and are suddenly left without a husband and a father as a result. Traumatized by the event, Kingston and his mother move away from Brooklyn and the Mercury Theater where it all took place. A few years later they move back and Kingston is convinced that his dad is not really dead and is determined to find him.
I read this story to a grade 4/5 class and I would say most were engaged. Some of the story was a little confusing at times and it was not always easy to explain exactly what was going on. Some of the students may have been a little lost at times, but those who weren't really enjoyed it. More for the stronger readers at this age although the story is age appropriate.
Kingston's dad has crashed through a mirror into "the Realm" having been involved in a magic trick that has gone horribly wrong. Kingston and his mother are in the audience when it happens and are suddenly left without a husband and a father as a result. Traumatized by the event, Kingston and his mother move away from Brooklyn and the Mercury Theater where it all took place. A few years later they move back and Kingston is convinced that his dad is not really dead and is determined to find him.
I read this story to a grade 4/5 class and I would say most were engaged. Some of the story was a little confusing at times and it was not always easy to explain exactly what was going on. Some of the students may have been a little lost at times, but those who weren't really enjoyed it. More for the stronger readers at this age although the story is age appropriate.
March 16, 2021
Kingston and his mom return to Echo City, which is where he grew up but also where his father disappeared. Echo City seems to be an echo of its former magician's-haven-glory and Kingston is determined to figure out what happened to his father and his once bustling hometown. With the help of his cousin Veronica and his childhood friend, Too-Tall, they fall into an unparalleled adventure into the world of parallel realms.
This was a very fun middle-grade read for readers who like adventure, magic, and reluctant, yet determined, heroes. Kingston is a clever and likable character who is able to tap into his inner strength while retaining his moral compass. Rucker Moses has crafted a wonderfully fictional world of Echo City and the strange characters we meet. Though the stakes were high, I was never left feeling despondent--I had trust in Kingston's cleverness!--and there was a good set-up for sequels! Quick, entertaining and transporting read!
This was a very fun middle-grade read for readers who like adventure, magic, and reluctant, yet determined, heroes. Kingston is a clever and likable character who is able to tap into his inner strength while retaining his moral compass. Rucker Moses has crafted a wonderfully fictional world of Echo City and the strange characters we meet. Though the stakes were high, I was never left feeling despondent--I had trust in Kingston's cleverness!--and there was a good set-up for sequels! Quick, entertaining and transporting read!
February 23, 2022
Four years after his magician dad vanished into a mirror during a show, Kingston is back in his Brooklyn neighborhood and on a mission to find his father and bring him back to this world. His older cousin Veronica and his old friend, Too Tall Eddie, come along for the adventure. Historically, there has been a lot of credit given to white magicians (think Houdini) and I liked that this book celebrated black magicians throughout history. The settings, particualrly the old abandoned theater and the streets of Brooklyn, were captivating. The action in this book moves fast, almost like a video game (to be fair, I don't really play video games). As someone that is more drawn to books with deep character development, I felt like I the action in the book overshadowed the relationships and charcter building. I do think that kids who are interested in magic and the supernatural, as well as fast-paced adventure will enjoy this book.
September 1, 2022
"Kinstong and the Magician's Lost and Found" is about a 12 year old kid name Kingston and his mom move back to Echo City after 4 years . His father was a magician and disappear during one of his big acts 4 years ago and no one has seen him since so he is practically dead. Kingston believes that his father is still out there and is determine to find his father now that he is back. I gave the book a four star rating because I really liked the develope and the mystery at the beginning of the book. I like how it talks about the descriptions of Echo city and what has happen in the last 4 years. How its like a graveyard or a distant memory from old magic because when the father disappear it seems like everything that had to do with magic tricks dissappeared too. I really like the mystery of this story and how intense it can get and that is why I put a 4 star rating.
March 9, 2021
While fantasy and themes of magic are not my first choice in genres, I had no problem reading this book. I flew through it, in fact. I think the reason it was so readable is not just because it is easy to read but because it is really and truly a good story. The kind that draws you in and makes you forget the things around you.
This is the story of a young boy determined to find his father, who is a magician. He and his friends work through the mystery to find him, all the while trying not to endanger their own lives. It’s full of tricks and codes and everything I loved as a 5th to 6th grade reader and well, ok…I loved it now as an old adult reader too. Just a fun run-away and get lost in a book kind of read. Recommended!
This is the story of a young boy determined to find his father, who is a magician. He and his friends work through the mystery to find him, all the while trying not to endanger their own lives. It’s full of tricks and codes and everything I loved as a 5th to 6th grade reader and well, ok…I loved it now as an old adult reader too. Just a fun run-away and get lost in a book kind of read. Recommended!
June 20, 2023
Four years ago Kingston lost his pops in a magic trick that went horribly wrong. Now he and mom are moving back to Brooklyn to save the family home. Mom is going to replace the magic shop with a diner. Kingston plans to rescue his dad. He hooks up with an old friend, Too Tall, and his cousin, Veronica, to investigate. His uncles try to warn/protect them but are ineffectual. Come to find out there is reality and the Realm which is a reflection of our world. A woman from the Realm is the big bad. She doesn’t want to go back but wants to gain access. King just wants to rescue Dad.
Upshot is evil Urma sent over. Dad still stuck. King’s realm hand still magicky and invisible. Ready for book 2.
Upshot is evil Urma sent over. Dad still stuck. King’s realm hand still magicky and invisible. Ready for book 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2020
I received an eARC courtesy of G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers & NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Magic & mystery are at the forefront in this adventure. While the book starts off super slow once the action of the story really gets going it is sure to captivate readers. Adults will undoubtedly be frustrated with the poor choices that King makes throughout, but the younger readers will probably not notice the signs of impending doom. The "echoes" theory is a bit convoluted, but the overall story of loss of family and magic is sure to overshadow the shortcomings.
For libraries: Purchase where you have demand for magic themes.
Magic & mystery are at the forefront in this adventure. While the book starts off super slow once the action of the story really gets going it is sure to captivate readers. Adults will undoubtedly be frustrated with the poor choices that King makes throughout, but the younger readers will probably not notice the signs of impending doom. The "echoes" theory is a bit convoluted, but the overall story of loss of family and magic is sure to overshadow the shortcomings.
For libraries: Purchase where you have demand for magic themes.
March 29, 2025
King and his mom return to their old neighborhood, where they haven't been in 4 years since King's father disappeared to save their family's brownstone from foreclosure. What King's Mom doesn't understand is that King needs to figure out what went wrong with his father's magic trick, and how can he get him back. He his joined by his cousin Veronica and friend Too Tall .
This middle grade fantasy novel is full of twists and turns, and pushes the envelope of reality. I recommend it for older kids as well. I enjoyed it. My only issue is it could have been longer.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This middle grade fantasy novel is full of twists and turns, and pushes the envelope of reality. I recommend it for older kids as well. I enjoyed it. My only issue is it could have been longer.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 28, 2022
This book was really hard to read. I unfortunately do not look forward to writing Battle of the Book questions for this one. First the build up took forever for a very sad and unsatisfying ending. I had to force myself to finish this book and I got into it at the climax, but then it was just a "huh" ending. It got very very confusing! I could not keep up with all the echoes, realms, rifts, etc. Too much to fit into a short book like this. Maybe people smarter than me will enjoy it more because they'll understand better.
March 22, 2021
i. loved. this.
the subtle magic, the integration of magic in the modern world, the AMAZING characters - i loved all of it. the lore, the history of Black magicians... King was an enthralling MC, i loved V, adored Too Tall (i wish we had seen more of Sula and Sol, though! i loved both of them). this is an amazing middle grade fantasy with a lot of heart, family, and joy. i highly, highly recommend this, and will definitely be recommending it to the middle grade readers that i work with.
the subtle magic, the integration of magic in the modern world, the AMAZING characters - i loved all of it. the lore, the history of Black magicians... King was an enthralling MC, i loved V, adored Too Tall (i wish we had seen more of Sula and Sol, though! i loved both of them). this is an amazing middle grade fantasy with a lot of heart, family, and joy. i highly, highly recommend this, and will definitely be recommending it to the middle grade readers that i work with.
May 23, 2021
This is a terrific middle-school level adventure, and you need it right now.
It's about a Black kid and his dad, and the emotional resonance of that bond feels real.
It's also a magic adventure, a heroic superhero-style story that's upbeat and charming and plain fun.
One of many cool things: Characters include real Black magicians who were active in the 19th and 20th centuries.
I can't recommend this book enough.
It's about a Black kid and his dad, and the emotional resonance of that bond feels real.
It's also a magic adventure, a heroic superhero-style story that's upbeat and charming and plain fun.
One of many cool things: Characters include real Black magicians who were active in the 19th and 20th centuries.
I can't recommend this book enough.
July 22, 2021
* I received a copy of Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. *
Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found was a great read for middle grader readers! Kingston has always loved magic, even when magic took his father away. Kingston is determined to find out what exactly happened to his father.
This was such a great fast read full of magic and family! Anyone that enjoys magic would enjoy this book.
Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found was a great read for middle grader readers! Kingston has always loved magic, even when magic took his father away. Kingston is determined to find out what exactly happened to his father.
This was such a great fast read full of magic and family! Anyone that enjoys magic would enjoy this book.
September 18, 2021
My notes while reading.
Lots of codes and ciphers. Mystery but also magicians and magic.
Very contemporary interesting characters.
Good audio presenter
I think mystery lovers will really like this.
Multiverse references that might draw in a good number of readers. Some kids will love this but others might find multiverse a bit much and overwhelming.
A bit of a narrower audience than I anticipated.
A bit complicated. Might be a bit exhausting for some.
Lots of codes and ciphers. Mystery but also magicians and magic.
Very contemporary interesting characters.
Good audio presenter
I think mystery lovers will really like this.
Multiverse references that might draw in a good number of readers. Some kids will love this but others might find multiverse a bit much and overwhelming.
A bit of a narrower audience than I anticipated.
A bit complicated. Might be a bit exhausting for some.
April 27, 2022
Loved the relationships and easy banter between King, his cousin V and Too Tall, as they try to figure out what happened to King’s magician dad 4 years ago. He disappeared during a magic show; King and his mom have returned to Brooklyn to save their house. Spooky happenings and alternate worlds (depicted in murals by a magical savant), an invisible hand and otherworldly doubles add suspense and humor to a fast-moving story.
Like the history of black magicians. Sequel already out
Like the history of black magicians. Sequel already out
April 30, 2021
A book that will be "easy to Sell" to my patrons. I appreciate that the publisher didn't cram the lines together and let the text breath. It will reach reluctant as well as avid readers. i found it very engaging.
It will make a great graphic novel or movie.
I also hope that there is a follow up so that Sol and his sister can get there parents back as well as Kings.
It will make a great graphic novel or movie.
I also hope that there is a follow up so that Sol and his sister can get there parents back as well as Kings.
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