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The Book, the Wand, the Magic
Olivia believes in miracles, magic and fairy folk and always will.Her brother, Sam, a temperamental, sceptical cynic doesn't and never will.But when a gust of wind in her dad's old potting shed dislodges a wand and a hidden book that are positively ancient, it writes itself.Then things get seriously strange for Olivia, her brother, mother, father and friends as ghostly occurrences seem to be the order of the day.
58 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 17, 2015
1 person is currently reading
4 people want to read
About the author
Michael Siddall
8 books8 followersMichael Siddall was born in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England and his aspirations to become a writer began after devising the board game: 'Challenge of the Gods'.
Educated at Newfield School in Sheffield he left with exemplary grades in his final exams and went on to Granville College where he studied Art and Design, Literature and History.
Times were hard and he left to become a carpet fitter. As a child of nine, Michael contracted Rheumatic Fever, spending a whole year in the Northern General Hospital, laid flat on his back for the first six months and in a wheelchair for the following six. To occupy himself he wrote his first short stories and poems and has continued to write every day of his life since.
He was told that as a consequence of his illness he would have a weak heart and spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair. Michael proved the specialists wrong. Not only did he walk again; he joined the army and became a P.T. I in the R.E.M.E., stationed at Borden in Hampshire with a heart as strong as a lion.
He holds the rank of 5th Dan Black Belt with instructor status in three different styles of martial arts - Shotokan Karate, Aikido and Korean Kempo. A writer since school, he has written eight novels and self-help book, 'Challenge of the Gods' being his first serious attempt at fantasy writing after completing a creative writing course. He still resides in Sheffield where he plays hockey at Ice Sheffield
Educated at Newfield School in Sheffield he left with exemplary grades in his final exams and went on to Granville College where he studied Art and Design, Literature and History.
Times were hard and he left to become a carpet fitter. As a child of nine, Michael contracted Rheumatic Fever, spending a whole year in the Northern General Hospital, laid flat on his back for the first six months and in a wheelchair for the following six. To occupy himself he wrote his first short stories and poems and has continued to write every day of his life since.
He was told that as a consequence of his illness he would have a weak heart and spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair. Michael proved the specialists wrong. Not only did he walk again; he joined the army and became a P.T. I in the R.E.M.E., stationed at Borden in Hampshire with a heart as strong as a lion.
He holds the rank of 5th Dan Black Belt with instructor status in three different styles of martial arts - Shotokan Karate, Aikido and Korean Kempo. A writer since school, he has written eight novels and self-help book, 'Challenge of the Gods' being his first serious attempt at fantasy writing after completing a creative writing course. He still resides in Sheffield where he plays hockey at Ice Sheffield
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 16, 2022
magical
It is well written and thought out for all ages. I really enjoyed reading this book it kept me wanting see what was happening next.
It is well written and thought out for all ages. I really enjoyed reading this book it kept me wanting see what was happening next.
December 27, 2022
A fairytale Gem!
Be careful what you wish for, especially when magic is in the air. Olivia O'Shea, 9 years old, wanted to learn all she could after she happened across a magic book, a broken Wand and spells. But magic was not as easy as it seems and often when she was learning spells, things didn't go quite to plan!
A fantastic short story for children of all ages. A fairytale of magical spells and wishes that every child dreams of, to watch bullies and snitches he brought down a peg or two and have a taste of their own medicine. Lovely touch to have a favourite toy come to life. Great little read!
Be careful what you wish for, especially when magic is in the air. Olivia O'Shea, 9 years old, wanted to learn all she could after she happened across a magic book, a broken Wand and spells. But magic was not as easy as it seems and often when she was learning spells, things didn't go quite to plan!
A fantastic short story for children of all ages. A fairytale of magical spells and wishes that every child dreams of, to watch bullies and snitches he brought down a peg or two and have a taste of their own medicine. Lovely touch to have a favourite toy come to life. Great little read!
January 9, 2021
My time reading this author
This is the first time reading anything by Mr. Siddall. I must say I was impressed. This was a.cute fantasy story about a young girl and her magic book. Parts of the story reminded me of The Page Master while others reminded me of Harry Potter. I thought this was a very unique idea that will grab the attention of a middle grader.
The story is well written with unique and believable characters. Too bad it was too short. It left me wanting more. Perhaps, there'll be another book.
This is the first time reading anything by Mr. Siddall. I must say I was impressed. This was a.cute fantasy story about a young girl and her magic book. Parts of the story reminded me of The Page Master while others reminded me of Harry Potter. I thought this was a very unique idea that will grab the attention of a middle grader.
The story is well written with unique and believable characters. Too bad it was too short. It left me wanting more. Perhaps, there'll be another book.
February 24, 2024
A cute and magical story
I thoroughly enjoyed this one! The story revolves around Olivia who plays around in an old shed and happens to accidentally stumbles upon a magic book. The book named Spells tries teaching Olivia magic all the while trying to avoid her nosey brother Sam. Her spells have a few surprises and interesting outcomes as Olivia learns more about magic and Spells background. It's A fun and witty story. I highly recommend it!
I thoroughly enjoyed this one! The story revolves around Olivia who plays around in an old shed and happens to accidentally stumbles upon a magic book. The book named Spells tries teaching Olivia magic all the while trying to avoid her nosey brother Sam. Her spells have a few surprises and interesting outcomes as Olivia learns more about magic and Spells background. It's A fun and witty story. I highly recommend it!
July 1, 2024
"The Book, the Wand, the Magic" by Michael and Olivia Siddall is an entrancing tale that sweeps readers into a captivating realm of enchantment and sibling dynamics. The story revolves around Olivia and Sam, everyday siblings who bicker on the surface but harbor a deep, unspoken bond of affection underneath.
Olivia's "she-shed", an old potting shed her father gave her is where the extraordinary adventure begins.
This seemingly mundane structure becomes a crucible for magic when Olivia discovers a mysterious book within its dusty confines. This book does more than merely captivate her imagination—it unveils an entirely new world, filled with wonder and mystique.
The authors excel in creating vivid, immersive scenes that transport readers directly into Olivia's enchanting universe. Their descriptive prowess ensures that every page pulsates with life, making the impossible feel tangible and the magical, real.
The book is woven with themes of self-discovery, bravery, and the importance of family, making it a rich and meaningful read for teens.
"The Book, the Wand, the Magic" is not just a story; it's a gateway into a realm where the mundane meets the magical in the most enchanting ways. I wholeheartedly recommend this book for teen readers and anyone who cherishes a heartwarming tale of adventure and familial bonds
Olivia's "she-shed", an old potting shed her father gave her is where the extraordinary adventure begins.
This seemingly mundane structure becomes a crucible for magic when Olivia discovers a mysterious book within its dusty confines. This book does more than merely captivate her imagination—it unveils an entirely new world, filled with wonder and mystique.
The authors excel in creating vivid, immersive scenes that transport readers directly into Olivia's enchanting universe. Their descriptive prowess ensures that every page pulsates with life, making the impossible feel tangible and the magical, real.
The book is woven with themes of self-discovery, bravery, and the importance of family, making it a rich and meaningful read for teens.
"The Book, the Wand, the Magic" is not just a story; it's a gateway into a realm where the mundane meets the magical in the most enchanting ways. I wholeheartedly recommend this book for teen readers and anyone who cherishes a heartwarming tale of adventure and familial bonds
November 12, 2020
A fairy tale of adventure and magic for all ages
From the first page of the book the author captivates the reader with delightfully descriptive words in telling the story of a little girl who gets wrapped up in magic. Her adventures in learning the magic and interacting with bullies have lessons intertwined. Imagination, and a child's wishful thinking are captured in the story. I loved how she dealt with her bully of a brother and the nasty boy and girl at school. The trip to another world was entertaining and taught her that home and family are important. I could picture each scene quite vividly and would recommend this book to adults who want a quick entertaining read that they can also share with their children. A great read for younger readers that will keep them wanting more. 5 stars +
From the first page of the book the author captivates the reader with delightfully descriptive words in telling the story of a little girl who gets wrapped up in magic. Her adventures in learning the magic and interacting with bullies have lessons intertwined. Imagination, and a child's wishful thinking are captured in the story. I loved how she dealt with her bully of a brother and the nasty boy and girl at school. The trip to another world was entertaining and taught her that home and family are important. I could picture each scene quite vividly and would recommend this book to adults who want a quick entertaining read that they can also share with their children. A great read for younger readers that will keep them wanting more. 5 stars +
September 29, 2020
A fun, fast-paced read
A mysterious book falls onto the head of a young girl and she discovers magical things happening to her. This book is entertaining from beginning to end. It has everything from accidental transformations, to a talking teddy bear, besides a few pranks on old school enemies and more. The characters’ and dialogue are creative and believable, and who doesn’t find a nine-year-old’s spunk endearing? This book’s storyline was creative, and it ended with an unexpected twist. I highly recommend this enchanting story to all ages.
And in case you didn’t catch the author’s bio, this novel’s written by a father and daughter team. Now that’s what I call endearing and magical! What fun!
A mysterious book falls onto the head of a young girl and she discovers magical things happening to her. This book is entertaining from beginning to end. It has everything from accidental transformations, to a talking teddy bear, besides a few pranks on old school enemies and more. The characters’ and dialogue are creative and believable, and who doesn’t find a nine-year-old’s spunk endearing? This book’s storyline was creative, and it ended with an unexpected twist. I highly recommend this enchanting story to all ages.
And in case you didn’t catch the author’s bio, this novel’s written by a father and daughter team. Now that’s what I call endearing and magical! What fun!
October 23, 2022
This book held my attention from the first page. I believe it will hold the attention of it's intended audience of middle school students as well.
The main characters are a young girl and her brother, Sam. Having found a book of magic the sister tries to hide the magic from her inquisitive brother with no success! His need to be in the mix resulted in him being turned into a frog at one point.
There are several interesting adventures that take place and Olivia learns how important it is to use the magic wisely.
The author and his daughter have written this book and it reflects the input of both. The adventures that Olivia gets into are, without doubt, influenced heavily by the daughter's input. We can look forward to seeing many more books from this duo.
The main characters are a young girl and her brother, Sam. Having found a book of magic the sister tries to hide the magic from her inquisitive brother with no success! His need to be in the mix resulted in him being turned into a frog at one point.
There are several interesting adventures that take place and Olivia learns how important it is to use the magic wisely.
The author and his daughter have written this book and it reflects the input of both. The adventures that Olivia gets into are, without doubt, influenced heavily by the daughter's input. We can look forward to seeing many more books from this duo.
October 5, 2020
Reading this book was a wonderful way to escape the stress of reality. For me it was a fun and creative story, peaking my interest early and then transporting me to a magical world where the only boundaries were that of the author’s own imagination. The writing style was easy to follow, and yet descriptive enough to paint the picture that was intended. This book would appeal to schoolchildren and, as I enjoyed it, it would appeal to adults that need a bit of a break from their day. I got to say, whenever I see a teddy bear now I will have to check, if by any chance, it breaths fire! Great job to both authors.
November 14, 2020
The Book, the Wand and the Magic is the wonderful story of Olivia who, when a talking book named Spells falls on her head in her dad’s potting shed, discovers the wonder of magic.
This was such fun to read. Name a kid who doesn’t want a magic book and a wand to sort out their lives.
This took me back to my childhood – annoying siblings, bullying, snitchy school mates. The author has written mine, and everyone’s childhood, and how we all wanted the magic to be real.
I would love to see this as a full-sized novel. There is so much more Olivia could do with her book and her wand. And her faithful Teddy by her side. I loved it. Five stars!
Well done Michael and Olivia.
This was such fun to read. Name a kid who doesn’t want a magic book and a wand to sort out their lives.
This took me back to my childhood – annoying siblings, bullying, snitchy school mates. The author has written mine, and everyone’s childhood, and how we all wanted the magic to be real.
I would love to see this as a full-sized novel. There is so much more Olivia could do with her book and her wand. And her faithful Teddy by her side. I loved it. Five stars!
Well done Michael and Olivia.
February 9, 2021
This author is beyond awesome! I have read quite a few of his books, and I have always been impressed! Olivia is such an interesting character to read all throughout the book. How it focuses on her, and magic becoming a major part of her life. How reading one book gets her interested in wanting to know more about spells and magic. It was so entertaining to show how she had magically come into her life. How being able to use magic for her own doings. Like dealing with jerks she does not like. It was well written, and I am impressed with the author's storytelling, and I will never be disappointed with his work. Great job!
November 9, 2022
Fantastic fantasy story about a little girl called Olivia and her book of magic. Fast paced and imaginative to keep you turning the pages eagerly until the very end. With unpredictability the story takes you from a little potting shed in her garden to a magnificent magical land with a castle where time doesn’t exist. This book has everything, the inquisitive little brother, talking teddy bears and magical battles. I can imagine it on tv with Bill Nighy voicing the part of Spells. Fantastic book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2024
Short & Sweet Fantasy Read Perfect For Kids - When 9 year old Olivia encounters a speaking magic book her life is never the same again as she learns magic spells, including turning her annoying brother into a toad. She also travels to a faraway magical land. But then she encounters a mysterious wizard and it may not be all it seems. This is a cleverly written and sweet short story that is perfect for kids and adults alike. I do wonder if we will hear more from little Olivia in the future.
September 25, 2020
A delightful story about magic, wizardry, and secret spells
Such a marvelous story about a young girl and her special talents. Changing a sibling into a frog and besting the school bully are every girl's dream. Well done!
Such a marvelous story about a young girl and her special talents. Changing a sibling into a frog and besting the school bully are every girl's dream. Well done!
October 18, 2020
A great book to read alone or even with your kids. This has been mine and my daughters bedtime reading adventure this past week and we were sad to see it end. Interesting storyline and a joy to read for all ages. Brilliant read.
November 21, 2020
A wonderful magical fantasy.
This book will certainly be a delight for all ages but especially children who love magic. Beautifully written and leaves you wanting more. Would be a great book to read along with children. Highly recommend.
This book will certainly be a delight for all ages but especially children who love magic. Beautifully written and leaves you wanting more. Would be a great book to read along with children. Highly recommend.
January 3, 2021
A really cute chapter book for children! This tale was full of magic, mischief, and just a bit of mayhem. It was a very entertaining read. I would definitely recommend it for anyone with children who enjoy tales of magic. In fact, I would love to read more of Olivia’s adventures!
December 23, 2022
Excellent young adult book
Fast-paced, original and refreshing fantasy that doesn’t come across as the least bit pretentious (a curse of the genre), the authors deliver a tale that belongs on every teen’s bookshelf.
Fast-paced, original and refreshing fantasy that doesn’t come across as the least bit pretentious (a curse of the genre), the authors deliver a tale that belongs on every teen’s bookshelf.
January 6, 2023
Dreamy, magical and cute.
The book, the wand, the magic is a book for young teens (and those that wish they still were) to get lost in. Olivia has a refuge, the family shed, and the magic that emanates from a book found there would fire anyone's imagination.
The book, the wand, the magic is a book for young teens (and those that wish they still were) to get lost in. Olivia has a refuge, the family shed, and the magic that emanates from a book found there would fire anyone's imagination.
April 14, 2023
Magical story!
This fairytale will take you on a magical adventure that will keep you turning the pages. I loved the descriptive plot and the characters. I would recommend this book to young readers or anyone that is still young at heart.
This fairytale will take you on a magical adventure that will keep you turning the pages. I loved the descriptive plot and the characters. I would recommend this book to young readers or anyone that is still young at heart.
January 1, 2021
A fun, descriptive and beautiful short story that warms the heart and makes you wish magic were real. Enjoyed this very much! Keep writing!
January 31, 2021
A very strange but interesting story. It does contain some rather large words that many teens won't know what they mean as I, myself, had to look up and I'm an adult.
November 2, 2022
Brilliant kids book and so full on magic
January 30, 2023
A Childhood fantasy
A lovely whimsical tale of a young child's magical wishes. It was a fun and entertaining read not only for the very young but fun for all ages.
A lovely whimsical tale of a young child's magical wishes. It was a fun and entertaining read not only for the very young but fun for all ages.
May 11, 2023
Loved this book. A great read for young adult, adults, and magic enthusiasts. I got lost in the story early on and read it in one sitting. A great read for the beach, or traveling.
January 20, 2021
A charming short read
This short book follows a 9 year old girl, Olivia as she learns to perform magic after finding an ancient talking spell book named Spells, in the garden shed.
For the age range intended, I thought this book had a well developed story. I especially enjoyed the descriptive language, for only 60 or so pages, there was some decent world building, enough to capture a younger reader's immagination. There was also a few moments of humour and light hearted action when magic goes awry and Olivia plays some pranks.
The immature innocence of these moments helps to sell the story for a younger audience, my seven year old would probably do the same were she in Olivia's shoes.
Repetative dialogue from her brother Sam, who seemed hell-bent on scaring Olivia, acted almost like the refrain of a song, which works well for young readers.
From an adult perspective, I thought something more sinister was a foot and expected some great nefarious scheme to be revealed on Spells' part, but it never transpired which was a little disappointing, but happy endings are more suited for children, so I can't fault it there.
The tone of the book made me think of The Sorcerer's Apprentice if it had been made in the 80's alongside movies like Labrynth, Neverending Story and Legend. I would actually like to see a more developed version of this for adults.
Overall, an exciting, funny adventure that will surely have children rooting in dusty garden sheds for any old book and shouting nonsense to the skies, only to discover they've unearthed their dad's mislaid copies of The Knack and jumbled Latin only works at Hogwarts.
This short book follows a 9 year old girl, Olivia as she learns to perform magic after finding an ancient talking spell book named Spells, in the garden shed.
For the age range intended, I thought this book had a well developed story. I especially enjoyed the descriptive language, for only 60 or so pages, there was some decent world building, enough to capture a younger reader's immagination. There was also a few moments of humour and light hearted action when magic goes awry and Olivia plays some pranks.
The immature innocence of these moments helps to sell the story for a younger audience, my seven year old would probably do the same were she in Olivia's shoes.
Repetative dialogue from her brother Sam, who seemed hell-bent on scaring Olivia, acted almost like the refrain of a song, which works well for young readers.
From an adult perspective, I thought something more sinister was a foot and expected some great nefarious scheme to be revealed on Spells' part, but it never transpired which was a little disappointing, but happy endings are more suited for children, so I can't fault it there.
The tone of the book made me think of The Sorcerer's Apprentice if it had been made in the 80's alongside movies like Labrynth, Neverending Story and Legend. I would actually like to see a more developed version of this for adults.
Overall, an exciting, funny adventure that will surely have children rooting in dusty garden sheds for any old book and shouting nonsense to the skies, only to discover they've unearthed their dad's mislaid copies of The Knack and jumbled Latin only works at Hogwarts.
September 20, 2020
I absolutely love magic so when I came across this book, I wanted to read it with my boy. Well we loved it, the story line kept our interest all the way. We so wanted a magical book of our own. This is a book for children, but also adults as its just a joy to read. Michael Siddall is an author to follow, such a beautifully crafted stories with great imagination. Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews