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The Edge of Everywhen
A unique middle-grade novel, The Edge of Everywhen tells the story of Piper, a 13-year-old self-proclaimed book nerd whose world has been upended after the death of her mother. She and her little brother Phoenix, who has autism, cling to one another as they are forced to move 1,000 miles away from everything familiar and live with their estranged aunt. Piper reaches to the books on her shelf for comfort, but it is one unique book, Novus Fabula, that offers true guidance as the omniscient narrator in the story. It watches them arrive at their aunt’s home, with tired hearts and stones in their stomachs, and now its whispered voice must point the children to depend upon the sovereignty of God during the most dire times as they await word of their missing father.
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First published May 12, 2020
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About the author
A.S. Mackey
5 books65 followersA.S. Mackey is an internationally published, award-winning middle grade author. Her debut novel, The Edge of Everywhen, was released May 12, 2020, published by Lifeway/B&H Publishing.
Allison earned her bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of Georgia in 1991. During her senior year at UGA, she was a reporter and copy editor for the Oglethorpe Echo newspaper in Lexington, GA. From 1992-1993 she was a regular humor column contributor in the quarterly independent musicians' magazine Visions of Gray, writing under the pen name of Uncle Earl. Allison is also a musician, and she wrote and recorded an original eleven-song CD in 2003 titled You’ve Waited Long Enough.
Mrs. Mackey has written multiple children’s stories on a contract basis with Tiny Readers Publishing in Houston (the NoMeLoMe series). She has also authored several non-fiction ESL books for young children with Norwegian ESL app designer Sigbjørn Dugal (Pickatale). She loves to cook, and a recipe she helped develop with her identical twin sister Nanci is included in the 2017 edition of "The Old Farmer’s Almanac Readers’ Best Recipes and the Stories Behind Them." She has also created web content for dozens of international websites through Upwork/Odesk.
A.S. Mackey was formerly represented by agent Elizabeth Bennett at the Transatlantic Literary Agency. She lives in Florence, Alabama with her husband Chad, and she is the mother of three adult children, a son-in-law, and a cat named Penelope.
Her novel The Edge of Everywhen won the Southern Christian Writers Conference 2021 Notable Book Award for Fiction, and was a finalist for the ACFW's Carol Award in the debut novel category.
Allison earned her bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of Georgia in 1991. During her senior year at UGA, she was a reporter and copy editor for the Oglethorpe Echo newspaper in Lexington, GA. From 1992-1993 she was a regular humor column contributor in the quarterly independent musicians' magazine Visions of Gray, writing under the pen name of Uncle Earl. Allison is also a musician, and she wrote and recorded an original eleven-song CD in 2003 titled You’ve Waited Long Enough.
Mrs. Mackey has written multiple children’s stories on a contract basis with Tiny Readers Publishing in Houston (the NoMeLoMe series). She has also authored several non-fiction ESL books for young children with Norwegian ESL app designer Sigbjørn Dugal (Pickatale). She loves to cook, and a recipe she helped develop with her identical twin sister Nanci is included in the 2017 edition of "The Old Farmer’s Almanac Readers’ Best Recipes and the Stories Behind Them." She has also created web content for dozens of international websites through Upwork/Odesk.
A.S. Mackey was formerly represented by agent Elizabeth Bennett at the Transatlantic Literary Agency. She lives in Florence, Alabama with her husband Chad, and she is the mother of three adult children, a son-in-law, and a cat named Penelope.
Her novel The Edge of Everywhen won the Southern Christian Writers Conference 2021 Notable Book Award for Fiction, and was a finalist for the ACFW's Carol Award in the debut novel category.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
May 3, 2020
A magical book provides narration and transforms a family in this new middle grade novel. How would you like to read a book that tells your story, but makes you feel like a new and improved version of yourself? The Novus Fabula is meant to be enjoyed and shared, not left on a dusty bookshelf. A final message reminds us that "Everyone's story matters." Piper and Phoenix will capture the hearts of readers and make everyone wish for such a book. And perhaps we already have one. Could Mackey be using the special book as a metaphor for the Bible? It most certainly contains good news.
Thank you to B&H Books and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to B&H Books and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2022
I've never come across this before, but this book is written in the style that it's talking to you, so don't leave any chocolate bar smudges or chicken nugget finger prints anywhere on the book otherwise it will have your guts for garters. "It" even has a name. Novus Fabula. He or She, has got quite a sense of humour and the book tells us the story about Piper and Phonenix who goes and lives with the agonising Aunt Beryl. No no, not the agony Aunt from the newspaper, this is someone different entirely.
Phonenix and Piper are quite entertaining characters, we find out that Phoenix absolutely obsessed with peanut butter. Piper is the oldest of the two and takes charge, as I noticed Phoneix doesn't talk, so a secret code is his secret weapon of choice. This story is to do with their lives at their Auntys place, what they get up to and how they cope with someone they don't particularly like.
I would put this as a middle grade (8-12) age bracket
Genre - Fantasy & Magic also I would say that this comes under Christian Fiction.
Overall I enjoyed this book which I won through a giveaway on Instagram, the author has written into the book, titles of childhood books that we all know, such as Harry Potter, The Secret Garden, The Giver. No illustrations, this is truly a chapter book for the advanced reader who enjoys tales of magic similar to, but not as dark as Harry Potter. 228 pages, so if you are buying for this age bracket this would keep them entertained for a while.
Giving this light funny easy read a 5 star rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pauline Reid
Reviewer
New Zealand
Phonenix and Piper are quite entertaining characters, we find out that Phoenix absolutely obsessed with peanut butter. Piper is the oldest of the two and takes charge, as I noticed Phoneix doesn't talk, so a secret code is his secret weapon of choice. This story is to do with their lives at their Auntys place, what they get up to and how they cope with someone they don't particularly like.
I would put this as a middle grade (8-12) age bracket
Genre - Fantasy & Magic also I would say that this comes under Christian Fiction.
Overall I enjoyed this book which I won through a giveaway on Instagram, the author has written into the book, titles of childhood books that we all know, such as Harry Potter, The Secret Garden, The Giver. No illustrations, this is truly a chapter book for the advanced reader who enjoys tales of magic similar to, but not as dark as Harry Potter. 228 pages, so if you are buying for this age bracket this would keep them entertained for a while.
Giving this light funny easy read a 5 star rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pauline Reid
Reviewer
New Zealand
June 25, 2020
This is a magical, contemporary novel following Piper and her brother Phoenix who has autism. I would recommend it to readers of middle-grade novels but I could definitely see parents reading it to their younger children. I enjoyed it as an adult too.
I requested this book from Netgalley.com and the publishers were kind enough to let me have a copy.
At the beginning of the story the children’s father has disappeared and when they also lose their mother, they are sent to stay with their Aunt in her house. This house has a large library and in it there is one magical book.
One unusual thing about this story is that it is told from the perspective of the book. This made the style of writing both whimsical and endearing.
I enjoyed meeting all the characters and in particular seeing how Phoenix’s autism affected him and his sister.
I loved the magical nature of the story. It felt like both a modern contemporary novel and a fairytale.
Each chapter begins with a quote, some of which are Bible verses. I loved that there were many spiritual threads and metaphors running throughout the story.
I would recommend this book, particularly to any younger Christian readers.
I requested this book from Netgalley.com and the publishers were kind enough to let me have a copy.
At the beginning of the story the children’s father has disappeared and when they also lose their mother, they are sent to stay with their Aunt in her house. This house has a large library and in it there is one magical book.
One unusual thing about this story is that it is told from the perspective of the book. This made the style of writing both whimsical and endearing.
I enjoyed meeting all the characters and in particular seeing how Phoenix’s autism affected him and his sister.
I loved the magical nature of the story. It felt like both a modern contemporary novel and a fairytale.
Each chapter begins with a quote, some of which are Bible verses. I loved that there were many spiritual threads and metaphors running throughout the story.
I would recommend this book, particularly to any younger Christian readers.
May 16, 2020
I received an advance reader copy of this book to book in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
This book is an amazing read for children. I had tears in my eyes at the last few chapters!
Such an imaginative and endearing story that children will absolutely adore! This book has some amazing quotes in it at the start of each chapter and has a fantastic cast of characters. The story grips you from the beginning and I couldn't stop turning the pages.
This book is an amazing read for children. I had tears in my eyes at the last few chapters!
Such an imaginative and endearing story that children will absolutely adore! This book has some amazing quotes in it at the start of each chapter and has a fantastic cast of characters. The story grips you from the beginning and I couldn't stop turning the pages.
May 11, 2020
We all know what it is like to have a book’s words resonate deeply without our hearts long after we have completed it.
For me, this is one of those books. From the moment I was introduced to it’s characters and up until I read the last word, I felt a deep connection with the message and story.
Following the tragic death of their mother and disappearance of their father, Piper and her younger brother Phoenix are sent to live with their very wealthy Aunt Beryl Bouchard. Sadly, Aunt Beryl seems less than thrilled to be stuck with the two kids and would much prefer to have them stay out of her way. Luckily, both children are fairly well behaved and have the company of two lovely others who stay on the property, a butler named Original Greene and a housekeeper named Sofia.
We soon realize that Piper loves reading and is very protective of her younger brother, Phoenix. Piper’s younger brother is autistic and has not spoken in years.
Soon, the two children literally hear a special and magical book, named Novus Fabula, speaking to them, and it wants to help tell them a story…..their story. But will they listen to it? And do/can the others in the house hear the book, too?
It was EASY for me to immediately fall in love with this story. The children swept me off my feet as I know what it is like to lose a parent. My own father passed away when I was twelve.
If you love literature and reading books (and if you have read a lot of books, whether as a child or adult), you will adore the many references throughout this book. They abound. I was smiling so much as memories came flooding back from all the books, and even movies made from books, referenced in this novel. It’s wonderful.
The healing religious elements in this novel are so subtle and I liked that a lot. I usually do not like a lot of heavy religious themes but I do appreciate intelligent placement of them. This is one of those times.
We all have things that happen in our lives, whether it is losing a loved one, having some sort of ailment or illness, or knowing someone who is going through or has been through the same. It can ultimately be anything. And it is at these times that we might feel utterly alone or abandoned by everyone around us…our friends, our family even. And sometimes, even God. But, it is at these times when you need God the most, that you will realize that He is there.
This is a lovely, powerful, and invigorating work of middle grade fiction. It made me smile. It made me cry. But mostly, it helped me heal and I love it for that.
Thank you so very much Netgalley and B&H Publishing Group for the advanced reader’s copy
For me, this is one of those books. From the moment I was introduced to it’s characters and up until I read the last word, I felt a deep connection with the message and story.
Following the tragic death of their mother and disappearance of their father, Piper and her younger brother Phoenix are sent to live with their very wealthy Aunt Beryl Bouchard. Sadly, Aunt Beryl seems less than thrilled to be stuck with the two kids and would much prefer to have them stay out of her way. Luckily, both children are fairly well behaved and have the company of two lovely others who stay on the property, a butler named Original Greene and a housekeeper named Sofia.
We soon realize that Piper loves reading and is very protective of her younger brother, Phoenix. Piper’s younger brother is autistic and has not spoken in years.
Soon, the two children literally hear a special and magical book, named Novus Fabula, speaking to them, and it wants to help tell them a story…..their story. But will they listen to it? And do/can the others in the house hear the book, too?
It was EASY for me to immediately fall in love with this story. The children swept me off my feet as I know what it is like to lose a parent. My own father passed away when I was twelve.
If you love literature and reading books (and if you have read a lot of books, whether as a child or adult), you will adore the many references throughout this book. They abound. I was smiling so much as memories came flooding back from all the books, and even movies made from books, referenced in this novel. It’s wonderful.
The healing religious elements in this novel are so subtle and I liked that a lot. I usually do not like a lot of heavy religious themes but I do appreciate intelligent placement of them. This is one of those times.
We all have things that happen in our lives, whether it is losing a loved one, having some sort of ailment or illness, or knowing someone who is going through or has been through the same. It can ultimately be anything. And it is at these times that we might feel utterly alone or abandoned by everyone around us…our friends, our family even. And sometimes, even God. But, it is at these times when you need God the most, that you will realize that He is there.
This is a lovely, powerful, and invigorating work of middle grade fiction. It made me smile. It made me cry. But mostly, it helped me heal and I love it for that.
Thank you so very much Netgalley and B&H Publishing Group for the advanced reader’s copy
November 27, 2020
I have to confess for me the beginning of the book was a bit slow but after getting into the story it really gets exciting. The Edge of Everywhen is told by a magical book, its a story about two siblings Piper and Phoenix, who are going through a difícult and very sad time. Their dad is missing in the Middle East. Their life turned upside down when their mom died in an car accident, they had to go to life with a aunt, who they barely know. The Edge of Everywhen is full of mystery and adventures with a beautiful message of hope. Kids will love and enjoy.
September 3, 2019
This book seems to be specific for children or seniors. The twists, turns, and beautiful vocabulary lend unique images at all levels. There seems to be only one problem: I NEED MORE! Checking off books read and rating them, one would think I only read heavy mysteries. This is an easy read. Yet it has the same magnitude of intrigue as the larger books. Great writing!
April 27, 2020
Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
I really enjoyed this Christian fantasy. It was unique and refreshing. It has a magical feel to it, a bit like reading the Narnia series. I loved all the characters in the book and they feel like friends now. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I really enjoyed this Christian fantasy. It was unique and refreshing. It has a magical feel to it, a bit like reading the Narnia series. I loved all the characters in the book and they feel like friends now. I look forward to reading more from this author.
June 6, 2020
This book was a pleasant surprise. I was browsing for new middle-grade books to review and initially selected it based on the cover and short summary. Later when I read the whole summary and realized it was Christian fiction I almost changed by mind about reading it, since my library is in a very multi-national community and there really isn't much demand for children's Christian fiction, but since I had already received the ARC, I decided to go ahead and I ended up enjoying it.
Piper and her younger brother Phoenix (who happens to be autistic) suddenly lose their mother in a car accident, and since their father has been missing for 2 years after being kidnapped while working on an overseas construction job they are sent to live with his much older sister, an aunt they don't even know. Their Aunt Beryl is not cruel or unkind, but is very cold and distant. However, her housekeeper Sofia and butler Mr. Greene are very kind, generous, warm, and welcoming. Piper, an avid reader, discovers that her late uncle was a book collector and the mansion houses a magnificent library. There, a peculiar book seems to call to her and Phoenix, begging to be read. But this is no ordinary book, and tells each reader their own special story...
This story is narrated by this mysterious book, Novus Fabula, reminiscent of the way Death narrated the story in The Book Thief.
“What’s that you say? Books cannot speak? On the contrary, dear Reader. Quite the contrary. Books are one of the few things on this earth that truly speak, from the moment the first word is penned until the book’s last Reader has drawn their final breath. Let me show you.”—Novus Fabula
This was a very touching story, told in a unique way, and is definitely the kind of book I would have loved as a child. It reminds me a bit of A Wrinkle In Time, Pollyanna, The Magic Garden, and the previously mentioned The Book Thief. It has slightly magical, a bit old-fashioned feel (though it has a contemporary setting) and will appeal to fans of fantasy. While it is Christian fiction, I did not find it to be too heavy-handed and does not overshadow the story. The story references several classic children's books, including some of those mentioned in this review, and even Harry Potter. Fans of The Chronicles of Narnia and A Wrinkle In Time would be sure to enjoy this book as well!
[I received a digital ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.]
Piper and her younger brother Phoenix (who happens to be autistic) suddenly lose their mother in a car accident, and since their father has been missing for 2 years after being kidnapped while working on an overseas construction job they are sent to live with his much older sister, an aunt they don't even know. Their Aunt Beryl is not cruel or unkind, but is very cold and distant. However, her housekeeper Sofia and butler Mr. Greene are very kind, generous, warm, and welcoming. Piper, an avid reader, discovers that her late uncle was a book collector and the mansion houses a magnificent library. There, a peculiar book seems to call to her and Phoenix, begging to be read. But this is no ordinary book, and tells each reader their own special story...
This story is narrated by this mysterious book, Novus Fabula, reminiscent of the way Death narrated the story in The Book Thief.
“What’s that you say? Books cannot speak? On the contrary, dear Reader. Quite the contrary. Books are one of the few things on this earth that truly speak, from the moment the first word is penned until the book’s last Reader has drawn their final breath. Let me show you.”—Novus Fabula
This was a very touching story, told in a unique way, and is definitely the kind of book I would have loved as a child. It reminds me a bit of A Wrinkle In Time, Pollyanna, The Magic Garden, and the previously mentioned The Book Thief. It has slightly magical, a bit old-fashioned feel (though it has a contemporary setting) and will appeal to fans of fantasy. While it is Christian fiction, I did not find it to be too heavy-handed and does not overshadow the story. The story references several classic children's books, including some of those mentioned in this review, and even Harry Potter. Fans of The Chronicles of Narnia and A Wrinkle In Time would be sure to enjoy this book as well!
[I received a digital ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.]
June 9, 2020
I was curious to read this Christian fiction with a fantasy twist. Young Piper and her younger brother Phoenix are sent to live with their wealthy aunt in Maine after their father goes missing and their mother dies in a car accident. It's a rough start for all as they adjust to living in new situations.
I loved the old school feel of this story. As the modern kids step into their aunt's world of dinner parties, formal dining rooms, and butlers and cooks, they're forced to slow down and process their circumstances. Stories restore their souls.
The healing begins when Phoenix reads a book, which is the narrator of the story, from their aunt's forbidden library titled "Novus Fabula." As hard as this story began, the beauty of healing pours through this story and makes the bitter beginning sweet.
I had a little bit of a hard time getting into the story, but once I was in, I was hooked. Everyone's story is important. Even in times when you can't see Him, God is there, carrying you through the tough times.
On a side note, I loved all of the book references in this story. It was like browsing through a great library. I was reminded of some of my favorites and found a few that I haven't read that I will be checking out soon!
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the old school feel of this story. As the modern kids step into their aunt's world of dinner parties, formal dining rooms, and butlers and cooks, they're forced to slow down and process their circumstances. Stories restore their souls.
The healing begins when Phoenix reads a book, which is the narrator of the story, from their aunt's forbidden library titled "Novus Fabula." As hard as this story began, the beauty of healing pours through this story and makes the bitter beginning sweet.
I had a little bit of a hard time getting into the story, but once I was in, I was hooked. Everyone's story is important. Even in times when you can't see Him, God is there, carrying you through the tough times.
On a side note, I loved all of the book references in this story. It was like browsing through a great library. I was reminded of some of my favorites and found a few that I haven't read that I will be checking out soon!
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2020
“Be astonished! Be astounded! For a work is being done in your days that you would not believe if you were told.” Habakkuk 1:5, NRSV
Something astonishing, indeed, awaits you, dear Reader.
On the pages of The Edge of Everywhen, you’ll find a young girl, Piper, frightened and desperate for what has been lost to be returned…
Her brother, Phoenix, an altogether rare young man, longing to be seen and understood…
A father, fighting to be reunited with his family…
And Aunt Beryl, with a cold, reserved heart, longing to be warmed.
Do you hear the echoes of your own story in any of theirs? Then, read on.
But be warned!
Something astonishing, indeed, awaits you, dear Reader, for between the covers of The Edge of Everywhen, you’ll encounter a story that will bring you closer to God and closer to the person you were handcrafted to be.
*
There truly are not sufficient words to express how wonderful this story is, so I’ll leave you with a simple plea: please read The Edge of Everywhen. You won’t regret a minute of this adventure and will, I believe, walk away from it forever changed.
My heartfelt gratitude to A.S. Mackey for having the courage to write this story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Something astonishing, indeed, awaits you, dear Reader.
On the pages of The Edge of Everywhen, you’ll find a young girl, Piper, frightened and desperate for what has been lost to be returned…
Her brother, Phoenix, an altogether rare young man, longing to be seen and understood…
A father, fighting to be reunited with his family…
And Aunt Beryl, with a cold, reserved heart, longing to be warmed.
Do you hear the echoes of your own story in any of theirs? Then, read on.
But be warned!
Something astonishing, indeed, awaits you, dear Reader, for between the covers of The Edge of Everywhen, you’ll encounter a story that will bring you closer to God and closer to the person you were handcrafted to be.
*
There truly are not sufficient words to express how wonderful this story is, so I’ll leave you with a simple plea: please read The Edge of Everywhen. You won’t regret a minute of this adventure and will, I believe, walk away from it forever changed.
My heartfelt gratitude to A.S. Mackey for having the courage to write this story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
May 28, 2020
I am honored to know The Edge of Everywhen in the same way the Novus Fabula is honored to know each and every reader it meets.
A.S. Mackey's debut was a uniquely moving story, and yet still filled with references and allusions to feel nostalgic for anyone who loves children's books. The story is told from the perspective of a powerful book titled the Novus Fabula, and experiencing such a unique and fitting narrative voice reminded me of when I read The Book Thief for the first time. The sentience and wisdom of the Novus Fabula was reminiscent of The Great Good Thing and Between the Lines. The dynamic between Piper and Phoenix, two siblings relying on each other in the wake of a parent's death, reminded me of The Sisters Grimm, Main Street, and 39 Clues books, which were all series that I adored growing up.
The Edge of Everywhen contained so many reminders of other books, yet, as a whole, I have never read a book like it before. It truly highlighted the way the right story can be healing in times of trauma, and the echoes of familiar stories found within its pages speaks to the way we are transformed and shaped by the stories we love.
A.S. Mackey's debut was a uniquely moving story, and yet still filled with references and allusions to feel nostalgic for anyone who loves children's books. The story is told from the perspective of a powerful book titled the Novus Fabula, and experiencing such a unique and fitting narrative voice reminded me of when I read The Book Thief for the first time. The sentience and wisdom of the Novus Fabula was reminiscent of The Great Good Thing and Between the Lines. The dynamic between Piper and Phoenix, two siblings relying on each other in the wake of a parent's death, reminded me of The Sisters Grimm, Main Street, and 39 Clues books, which were all series that I adored growing up.
The Edge of Everywhen contained so many reminders of other books, yet, as a whole, I have never read a book like it before. It truly highlighted the way the right story can be healing in times of trauma, and the echoes of familiar stories found within its pages speaks to the way we are transformed and shaped by the stories we love.
Read
June 16, 2020I DNF'ed at 44%.
Let me explain. The book was not bad at all, there were many things that I enjoyed. I really liked seeing all the bookish references to Narnia, Harry Potter, LOTR, The Hobbit, and a variety of other books. I also liked seeing autism in Christian middle-grade fiction that is not portrayed as a 'problem' needing to be 'solved'.
However, what I found lacking was a plot. Maybe it is just not the right time for me to read this book but I was not seeing the point of it. Whenever I put this down, it was harder and harder to find the want to pick it up again. It just didn't immerse me in the story.
Another little thing that bugged me was the repeated use of the phrase, "(s)he let out the breath (s)he didn't know (s)he'd been holding". Take note that I read from an ARC and that it could be different in the final copy but it was disappointing to see this very common 'easy-button' phrase used so often.
Rating: 3/5
Language: n/a, I didn't finish but I am fairly confident that it will not have any
Romance: none up to 44%
Spiritual: the Novus Fabula is very much an allegory for Christ
Violence: the children's father was tortured, mother died
*I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.
Let me explain. The book was not bad at all, there were many things that I enjoyed. I really liked seeing all the bookish references to Narnia, Harry Potter, LOTR, The Hobbit, and a variety of other books. I also liked seeing autism in Christian middle-grade fiction that is not portrayed as a 'problem' needing to be 'solved'.
However, what I found lacking was a plot. Maybe it is just not the right time for me to read this book but I was not seeing the point of it. Whenever I put this down, it was harder and harder to find the want to pick it up again. It just didn't immerse me in the story.
Another little thing that bugged me was the repeated use of the phrase, "(s)he let out the breath (s)he didn't know (s)he'd been holding". Take note that I read from an ARC and that it could be different in the final copy but it was disappointing to see this very common 'easy-button' phrase used so often.
Rating: 3/5
Language: n/a, I didn't finish but I am fairly confident that it will not have any
Romance: none up to 44%
Spiritual: the Novus Fabula is very much an allegory for Christ
Violence: the children's father was tortured, mother died
*I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.
December 29, 2021
This book is about the siblings Phoenix and Piper, Phoenix as autism. There father went missing 3 years ago and there mom died in a car crash in the beginning of the book. Because of that the have to go live with their aunt for away.
I absolutely love the idee of this book but I sadly did not like it. The first thing I didn't like is personal and that is the narration and writing style. The book jumped very fast and was confusing to get into. Also the book is narroted by a book and that is an narration style I sadly don't enjoy.
But the biggest problem I had with this book was the autism representation. So Phoenis has autism, he doesn't speak, doesn't look people in the eyes. He has a big bond with piper and writes her messages in a code. But when at his aunts house he reads a book that all starts to fade. He does things he never done before or done for a long while. It literally indicates that because of the book Phoenix begins to heal of autism. Later it is also said that Phoenix has autism because he is afraid. This is such a big problem, especially in children books. If kids read this book, the can come to see autism as a joke or something that can be fiksed or that it is bad.
I absolutely love the idee of this book but I sadly did not like it. The first thing I didn't like is personal and that is the narration and writing style. The book jumped very fast and was confusing to get into. Also the book is narroted by a book and that is an narration style I sadly don't enjoy.
But the biggest problem I had with this book was the autism representation. So Phoenis has autism, he doesn't speak, doesn't look people in the eyes. He has a big bond with piper and writes her messages in a code. But when at his aunts house he reads a book that all starts to fade. He does things he never done before or done for a long while. It literally indicates that because of the book Phoenix begins to heal of autism. Later it is also said that Phoenix has autism because he is afraid. This is such a big problem, especially in children books. If kids read this book, the can come to see autism as a joke or something that can be fiksed or that it is bad.
August 28, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a free e-arc of this title.
Wow. WOW. This book is incredible. It is a story that I feel children and adults need to read. It is powerful.
Siblings Piper and Phoenix have endured more than any children should have to go through. Their father has disappeared, and their mother was suddenly killed in an accident. Sent to live with their mysterious Aunt Beryl, this story is about love, hope, and redemption.
I loved watching Piper and Phoenix find themselves. I think the way that the author portrayed Phoenix (who is autistic) is wonderful - he is highly intelligent, capable, and kind. Piper is an incredible big sister, who has had to grow up far before her time. Her fierce love for her brother drives nearly everything she does. Sofia, Mr. Greene, and Aunt Beryl are wonderful characters. The subplot following their father is heartbreaking and beautiful. I honestly cried at the end.
To quote Mr. Green: "Some things in this world are just pure magic."
Wow. WOW. This book is incredible. It is a story that I feel children and adults need to read. It is powerful.
Siblings Piper and Phoenix have endured more than any children should have to go through. Their father has disappeared, and their mother was suddenly killed in an accident. Sent to live with their mysterious Aunt Beryl, this story is about love, hope, and redemption.
I loved watching Piper and Phoenix find themselves. I think the way that the author portrayed Phoenix (who is autistic) is wonderful - he is highly intelligent, capable, and kind. Piper is an incredible big sister, who has had to grow up far before her time. Her fierce love for her brother drives nearly everything she does. Sofia, Mr. Greene, and Aunt Beryl are wonderful characters. The subplot following their father is heartbreaking and beautiful. I honestly cried at the end.
To quote Mr. Green: "Some things in this world are just pure magic."
January 9, 2021
This book was awesome. So well written and imagined. My favorite thing was how it was the book itself telling the story (and all the other book friends it mentioned). I've never read a book from the point of view of a book itself. So cool! Dear Reader.... :)
It wasn’t quite what I’d expected reading the blurb but was still really fun. I read it aloud to my eight- and ten-year-olds and we were all captivated by the story. I loved the way it focused on how everyone has a story and there’s always more to a person than you first see. Really fascinating.
My ten-year-old's review:
I loved this book. It had a part which I didn't expect but what did happen was even better. I liked the way the two kids found out that there was more to their aunt than they thought and she wasn't as grumpy and mean as they thought. I learnt some new words and sometimes the way the book skipped back and forth between the kids and their dad was a bit confusing but after a while it made sense. Some of the bits were really funny and I laughed really hard. I would recommend it for ages nine to teens.
It wasn’t quite what I’d expected reading the blurb but was still really fun. I read it aloud to my eight- and ten-year-olds and we were all captivated by the story. I loved the way it focused on how everyone has a story and there’s always more to a person than you first see. Really fascinating.
My ten-year-old's review:
I loved this book. It had a part which I didn't expect but what did happen was even better. I liked the way the two kids found out that there was more to their aunt than they thought and she wasn't as grumpy and mean as they thought. I learnt some new words and sometimes the way the book skipped back and forth between the kids and their dad was a bit confusing but after a while it made sense. Some of the bits were really funny and I laughed really hard. I would recommend it for ages nine to teens.
August 4, 2020
I'm writing this as I'm tearing up because this book moved me in a way I didn't knew I could be moved (not anymore anyway).
Even if I didn't go to the same experiences as Piper, I felt so much like her as a teen. I wish I had read it in that age, it would be my own Novus Fabula.
I love how this story is told, how we can hear the book speaking. I also love how it was a calm, deep tale, instead of an action packed story (I like those too, but it felt better this way).
Also, Phoenix is everything to me. I love him. He's the magic in this book.
(Maybe it's important to say, I'm not a religious person, let alone e christian one, and I loved the book)
To all the book lovers out there, this one maybe is not for you, but I swear it's about you.
Even if I didn't go to the same experiences as Piper, I felt so much like her as a teen. I wish I had read it in that age, it would be my own Novus Fabula.
I love how this story is told, how we can hear the book speaking. I also love how it was a calm, deep tale, instead of an action packed story (I like those too, but it felt better this way).
Also, Phoenix is everything to me. I love him. He's the magic in this book.
(Maybe it's important to say, I'm not a religious person, let alone e christian one, and I loved the book)
To all the book lovers out there, this one maybe is not for you, but I swear it's about you.
May 11, 2020
A wonderfully engaging tale! This book immediately draws the reader in and is ingeniously narrated by a Book. The Book narrator name-drops classic authors and books throughout, encouraging a love of literature. The subtle weaving of a deep foundation in faith was refreshingly without agenda. As an adult reader, I found myself wishing for a more developed and layered story, and wonder if middle grade readers might feel the same way. Regardless, I find myself pondering the story and the characters enough to realize that it does have a deep impact which tells me that the story line was engaging enough to merit a 4 star review.
January 20, 2022
I really enjoyed reading this one to my kids. I loved that the author included people with disabilities (autism and dyslexia specifically) and portrayed them beautifully. This book approached grief and loss in a real and yet still kid-friendly way, and I loved the power books and stories had to heal the broken places in the characters’ hearts.
February 18, 2023
From the book references to the actual book quotes at the beginning of the chapter, I loved every second of this book. Honestly, a person who didn’t love books would find this vaguely confusing. 😂 I loved Piper and Phoenix and thought this story was so cute. (also before you go there they’re SIBLINGS. that’s not what I meant. 😂)
April 25, 2020
First sentence: The day the girl and the boy showed up at my door was like any other. Their arrival is now etched into my spine and has become part of me, just as I have become part of them. Just as I will become a part of you. Do not worry, Dear Reader. You will become part of my existence, as all my Readers do, leaving chocolate bar smudges or chicken nugget fingerprints on a few pages before returning me to the library shelf. Just to let you know, I am rather averse to honey, because my pages get sticky. And milk can sour into an awful stench if it spills on the cover, but I really don’t mind. I was created for you, Dear Reader.
Premise/plot: The narrator of this new children's fantasy is a BOOK. Yes, an ACTUAL book. Well, this book is perhaps one of the narrators. Piper and Phoenix are nearly arrived at their aunt's house. She's fabulously wealthy but oh-so-reserved. The children interact more with the butler and the cook than with their aunt. But that's almost almost how they'd prefer it. She can be prickly. Why are they there? Well, their mom has recently died, and their father has been MISSING for years in the Middle East. He may be alive; he may be dead. They are all living in this state of Not Knowing. And perhaps that's one reason their aunt is so emotionally unavailable. Phoenix only communicates with his sister, Piper, and even before their mom died--he had changed. He communicates with his sister in a number code--using The Giver to decode. The mysterious BOOK communicates with the children--calls to them--and they respond...and thus the magic begins to unfold...
My thoughts: I really found this a compelling fantasy novel for children. Each chapter starts with a bookish quote. Most of these quotes are invented quotes from books and authors that don't exist. But other quotes are from various translations of Scripture. And a few are from books and authors in this world. Piper is an avid reader and she DROPS a lot of books and authors into almost all of her conversations. So readers will probably find a kindred spirit in her. I know that I did.
Quotes:
May our stories be told, and may the words have life.—Friar Godfried
In the pages of a book she found truth, lies, mystery, wonder, and balm for the wounds she didn’t know she carried.—Novus Fabula
The day had simply been full of Too Much Muchness. So Clarence hid between the covers of his favorite storybook until the day should sort itself out again.—Bartholomew Stout
“It’s been fifteen years since I read any sort of book,” he said with his nose in the air. “Reading is so bothersome.” Gracie rolled her eyes and said, “Well that explains everything.”—Johannah Whitney
I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink.—Matthew 25:35
The library is a trove of storied treasure just waiting to be unearthed.—Temperance Galligher
The two words with power enough to set a universe in motion are, “WHAT . . . IF.”—Nita Orsini
They were just words. But they were the words she needed to say and couldn’t, so she found them in a book instead.—Enitan Clark
I wonder what tales you might hear if your grandfather’s bookshelves could speak.—Lance Murdock
The books didn’t want to be dusted; they wanted to be devoured.—Tajana Baird
Be astonished! Be astounded! For a work is being done in your days that you would not believe if you were told.—Habakkuk 1:5 nrsv
Oh, you already know everything about everything? How dreadfully dull.—Cordelia Adams
With trembling hands she held the unread letter to the light. Immortalized by pen and ink, the words of the dead raced forward from a bygone era to speak to her.—Oscar Wesley
“My dreams are so lifelike,” Darcy said. “When I’m asleep here, it’s like I’m alive in another place, living someone else’s story.” The Mage narrowed his eyes at her and said, “Well, of course you are.”—Dana Schreiber
There are millions and billions and trillions of words on pages in this world. And still there is more to say that has not yet been said.—Mary Alice Kelly
Surely the author must have felt the power in his fingertips when he grasped the quill. I should think his hands still tremble with it a thousand years hence.—Ann Eliza Matthews
My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer.—The Sons of Korah, Psalm 45:1 niv
The volumes stood on the shelves, resolute, silent as sentries with unfired weapons at the ready.—Adeliza Livingston
“A story?” the dragon echoed with a smoky chuckle. “I suppose I could tell you just one before I turn you into toast.”—Gualterius Falsus, “The Tale of Mendax the Mede”
Too many books? That’s like saying you’ve got too many friends. It’s preposterous!—Alfred Doddle
Some books should be tasted, some devoured, but only a few should be chewed and digested thoroughly.—Francis Bacon
Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.—John 15:13 nkjv
All he needed was a tin-foil sword and a morsel of imagination. The fairy tales made him invincible, and he conquered the world, every afternoon between school and tea-time.—Laura Fullington
To know and be known, the reader and the writer. You cannot have one without the other.—Ian Humphrey
More than the sum of its various parts: Poesy, Music, Story, and Art.—Avalon Segreti
Victoria’s tears landed on the final page, absorbed just beneath the place where the typesetter had decided THE END should be. The book humbly received the offering . . . and smiled.—Winnie Kaylor
As the stories are read and reread and reread again, they become interwoven with bits and pieces of each Reader left behind inside every cover.—Isabella Kuhn
We listen to the stories, the raw truth imparted by tribe and fire, the tales of our forebears passed down face to face, mouth to mouth, eye to eye. This is how we know who we are.—Anji Kusugak
You cannot open a book without learning something.—Ancient proverb
I’m not entirely certain they were prepared for what Story had to tell them. But Story knew it had been sent to destroy life as they knew it.—Jameson Cooke
Brave ships are these that bear thee home again.—Charles Hamilton Musgrove
I’ve left a bit of myself in every bookstore and library I’ve had the pleasure of occupying.—Elisabeth Joyce Gott
“Come in,” said the book. So the children clasped hands and skipped into the realm where the dead may whisper to the living.—Francis Westbrook
Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.
When you sell a man a book you don’t sell him just twelve ounces of paper and ink and glue—you sell him a whole new life.—Christopher Morley
Just thinking about being chained in one place forever makes my ink dry up. If I were chained to a library desk, I could never venture into the homes of my Readers and cozy up to a roaring fire in a bleak midwinter.—Bestil Haruldane
The story wanted to be written, so it worried and prodded and pestered the poor girl until she gave it flesh and blood in the form of ink on paper.—Eunice Sprague
Premise/plot: The narrator of this new children's fantasy is a BOOK. Yes, an ACTUAL book. Well, this book is perhaps one of the narrators. Piper and Phoenix are nearly arrived at their aunt's house. She's fabulously wealthy but oh-so-reserved. The children interact more with the butler and the cook than with their aunt. But that's almost almost how they'd prefer it. She can be prickly. Why are they there? Well, their mom has recently died, and their father has been MISSING for years in the Middle East. He may be alive; he may be dead. They are all living in this state of Not Knowing. And perhaps that's one reason their aunt is so emotionally unavailable. Phoenix only communicates with his sister, Piper, and even before their mom died--he had changed. He communicates with his sister in a number code--using The Giver to decode. The mysterious BOOK communicates with the children--calls to them--and they respond...and thus the magic begins to unfold...
My thoughts: I really found this a compelling fantasy novel for children. Each chapter starts with a bookish quote. Most of these quotes are invented quotes from books and authors that don't exist. But other quotes are from various translations of Scripture. And a few are from books and authors in this world. Piper is an avid reader and she DROPS a lot of books and authors into almost all of her conversations. So readers will probably find a kindred spirit in her. I know that I did.
Quotes:
May our stories be told, and may the words have life.—Friar Godfried
In the pages of a book she found truth, lies, mystery, wonder, and balm for the wounds she didn’t know she carried.—Novus Fabula
The day had simply been full of Too Much Muchness. So Clarence hid between the covers of his favorite storybook until the day should sort itself out again.—Bartholomew Stout
“It’s been fifteen years since I read any sort of book,” he said with his nose in the air. “Reading is so bothersome.” Gracie rolled her eyes and said, “Well that explains everything.”—Johannah Whitney
I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink.—Matthew 25:35
The library is a trove of storied treasure just waiting to be unearthed.—Temperance Galligher
The two words with power enough to set a universe in motion are, “WHAT . . . IF.”—Nita Orsini
They were just words. But they were the words she needed to say and couldn’t, so she found them in a book instead.—Enitan Clark
I wonder what tales you might hear if your grandfather’s bookshelves could speak.—Lance Murdock
The books didn’t want to be dusted; they wanted to be devoured.—Tajana Baird
Be astonished! Be astounded! For a work is being done in your days that you would not believe if you were told.—Habakkuk 1:5 nrsv
Oh, you already know everything about everything? How dreadfully dull.—Cordelia Adams
With trembling hands she held the unread letter to the light. Immortalized by pen and ink, the words of the dead raced forward from a bygone era to speak to her.—Oscar Wesley
“My dreams are so lifelike,” Darcy said. “When I’m asleep here, it’s like I’m alive in another place, living someone else’s story.” The Mage narrowed his eyes at her and said, “Well, of course you are.”—Dana Schreiber
There are millions and billions and trillions of words on pages in this world. And still there is more to say that has not yet been said.—Mary Alice Kelly
Surely the author must have felt the power in his fingertips when he grasped the quill. I should think his hands still tremble with it a thousand years hence.—Ann Eliza Matthews
My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer.—The Sons of Korah, Psalm 45:1 niv
The volumes stood on the shelves, resolute, silent as sentries with unfired weapons at the ready.—Adeliza Livingston
“A story?” the dragon echoed with a smoky chuckle. “I suppose I could tell you just one before I turn you into toast.”—Gualterius Falsus, “The Tale of Mendax the Mede”
Too many books? That’s like saying you’ve got too many friends. It’s preposterous!—Alfred Doddle
Some books should be tasted, some devoured, but only a few should be chewed and digested thoroughly.—Francis Bacon
Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.—John 15:13 nkjv
All he needed was a tin-foil sword and a morsel of imagination. The fairy tales made him invincible, and he conquered the world, every afternoon between school and tea-time.—Laura Fullington
To know and be known, the reader and the writer. You cannot have one without the other.—Ian Humphrey
More than the sum of its various parts: Poesy, Music, Story, and Art.—Avalon Segreti
Victoria’s tears landed on the final page, absorbed just beneath the place where the typesetter had decided THE END should be. The book humbly received the offering . . . and smiled.—Winnie Kaylor
As the stories are read and reread and reread again, they become interwoven with bits and pieces of each Reader left behind inside every cover.—Isabella Kuhn
We listen to the stories, the raw truth imparted by tribe and fire, the tales of our forebears passed down face to face, mouth to mouth, eye to eye. This is how we know who we are.—Anji Kusugak
You cannot open a book without learning something.—Ancient proverb
I’m not entirely certain they were prepared for what Story had to tell them. But Story knew it had been sent to destroy life as they knew it.—Jameson Cooke
Brave ships are these that bear thee home again.—Charles Hamilton Musgrove
I’ve left a bit of myself in every bookstore and library I’ve had the pleasure of occupying.—Elisabeth Joyce Gott
“Come in,” said the book. So the children clasped hands and skipped into the realm where the dead may whisper to the living.—Francis Westbrook
Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.
When you sell a man a book you don’t sell him just twelve ounces of paper and ink and glue—you sell him a whole new life.—Christopher Morley
Just thinking about being chained in one place forever makes my ink dry up. If I were chained to a library desk, I could never venture into the homes of my Readers and cozy up to a roaring fire in a bleak midwinter.—Bestil Haruldane
The story wanted to be written, so it worried and prodded and pestered the poor girl until she gave it flesh and blood in the form of ink on paper.—Eunice Sprague
May 8, 2020
What would you do if you lost your mother and your father and you had no choice but to go live with an old aunt that you didn't even know? You would be super sad, right? This is what has happened to 13-year-old Piper and her brother, Phoenix. Their father worked in construction and was sent overseas by the American government to rebuild ruined hospitals and schools in a country torn apart by war. One day he went missing and has not been heard from in two years. Then one night their mom was coming home from work on a rainy night when her car was in a wreck and she passed away. With no other family but an old aunt that lives thousands of miles away from their home, they are forced to go and live with her in Maine. When they arrive at the house they are given very strict rules for the huge mansion of a house that seems more like a museum than a house. They are not allowed to run in the house, they are forbidden to eat anywhere except the kitchen, and they are absolutely prohibited from ever going into the library. This might be okay for some but for Piper and Phoenix, this is bad for two reasons - 1) they are avid readers and love all books, and 2) there is a book that seems to be calling their names. That may sound crazy because a book can't talk... or can they? When Phoenix takes the book, Novus Fabula, from the library their lives are forever changed. With the help of Mr. Greene, the butler, and Sofia, the cook, and their aunt's three dogs, Piper and Phoenix begin to slowly heal. But when they find out a secret that their aunt has been keeping, will things ever be the same again? Is their dad alive and if so, why hasn't he come home to them? Will Piper and Phoenix discover that magic truly does exist and if so, will they discover the source? Will Aunt Beryl ever warm up to Piper and Phoenix and make her house a home or will they always feel like an outsider? Read this incredibly amazing story to find out!
This Is one of the most refreshing books I have ever read! Piper is a girl after my own heart! Her love of books and reading makes my heart smile! She is also extremely loyal to her friends and family. Even when things are not going her way (like when all of her books were taken away from her) she still showed respect to those in charge. She was also dealt some tragic cards and even though her faith in God wavered she never truly gave up in Him. This is one of the most heart-warming stories I have read in a very long time! This has quickly become a #1 story in my book! Please do not miss this book about tragedy, rebounding from that tragedy, family, friendship, love, mystery, magic, and most of all that God is in control and when we are ready to accept Him He will be there for us!
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This Is one of the most refreshing books I have ever read! Piper is a girl after my own heart! Her love of books and reading makes my heart smile! She is also extremely loyal to her friends and family. Even when things are not going her way (like when all of her books were taken away from her) she still showed respect to those in charge. She was also dealt some tragic cards and even though her faith in God wavered she never truly gave up in Him. This is one of the most heart-warming stories I have read in a very long time! This has quickly become a #1 story in my book! Please do not miss this book about tragedy, rebounding from that tragedy, family, friendship, love, mystery, magic, and most of all that God is in control and when we are ready to accept Him He will be there for us!
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June 4, 2020
How do you know when a book wants to be read?
The Edge of Everywhen brings readers face-to-page with this question and many more in this delightful new fantasy by A.S. Mackey. Also enchantment. Loss. Danger. Family. Hope. Redemption. Why everyone’s story matters. And a really, really good read!
Indeed, The Edge of Everywhen is a splendid romp through all things bookish, magic, and true. Clever and convincing without being Pecksniffian, The Edge of Everywhen is a literary tour de force any bibliophile will love. (If you’re not a dyed-in-the-ink bibliophile at the start of this charming novel, chances are you will be by the end.)
Narrated by a book – I kid you not – the story revolves around two recently orphaned siblings: Piper, age 13, and Phoenix, age 10. He communicates with his sister by numerical code a la The Giver. Phoenix also has a special gift. Among other things, he hears and responds to what others choose to ignore. Piper is a book lover par excellence who proves her pluck and spunk many times over.
When their father goes missing after taking a construction job overseas and their mother is killed in a tragic car crash, the children suddenly finds themselves at the estate of their Aunt Beryl, a virtual stranger. Happily, Aunt Beryl’s three dogs take to the children immediately as dogs so often do. Ditto the housekeeper and butler, the kindly Sofia and Mr. Greene. They radiate warmth and welcome as much as Aunt Beryl refrigerates stiff austerity. (Think Polar Ice Caps.)
Struggling to adjust to “the new normal,” Piper and Phoenix stumble upon their aunt’s enormous library. It houses an impressive collection of classic books and is home to a special book.
Meanwhile, to Piper’s horror, her aunt is determined to replace the priceless literary treasure trove with cheap fakes. And what what’s up with her yellow life raft dreams?
Interwoven throughout the children’s story is another one. From far away. But you’ll you have to get the book to find out more about that. While you’re at it, kindly remember peanut butter. Lavender and eucalyptus. Peppermint dreams. The age old question of why bad things happen to good people and It’s Not Fair!
Sturdy, solid writing combined with an effervescent imagination serve up a deliciously creative plot. Chapters are brief and easily digested, teeming with delightful allusions to well-loved literary classics. Characters are well-rounded and believable. The plot moves swiftly, like Secretariat rocketing around the final turn of the Belmont Stakes.
Readers will love becoming totally and completely submersed in a story or literary character who understands you in a way no one else can.
This book was so much fun in a Narnia and Inkheart-ish sort of way! Reading The Edge of Everywhen, you may even find yourself in a “thin place.” I didn’t want it to end.
Although tailored to middle schoolers, anyone who relishes the magic and mystery of books and all That Stuff will enjoy The Edge of Everywhen. As for me? Well, the next time I’m in the library I think I’ll close my eyes and listen. Because, Dear Reader, everyone’s story matters.
#TheEdgeofEverywhen
#NetGalley
The Edge of Everywhen brings readers face-to-page with this question and many more in this delightful new fantasy by A.S. Mackey. Also enchantment. Loss. Danger. Family. Hope. Redemption. Why everyone’s story matters. And a really, really good read!
Indeed, The Edge of Everywhen is a splendid romp through all things bookish, magic, and true. Clever and convincing without being Pecksniffian, The Edge of Everywhen is a literary tour de force any bibliophile will love. (If you’re not a dyed-in-the-ink bibliophile at the start of this charming novel, chances are you will be by the end.)
Narrated by a book – I kid you not – the story revolves around two recently orphaned siblings: Piper, age 13, and Phoenix, age 10. He communicates with his sister by numerical code a la The Giver. Phoenix also has a special gift. Among other things, he hears and responds to what others choose to ignore. Piper is a book lover par excellence who proves her pluck and spunk many times over.
When their father goes missing after taking a construction job overseas and their mother is killed in a tragic car crash, the children suddenly finds themselves at the estate of their Aunt Beryl, a virtual stranger. Happily, Aunt Beryl’s three dogs take to the children immediately as dogs so often do. Ditto the housekeeper and butler, the kindly Sofia and Mr. Greene. They radiate warmth and welcome as much as Aunt Beryl refrigerates stiff austerity. (Think Polar Ice Caps.)
Struggling to adjust to “the new normal,” Piper and Phoenix stumble upon their aunt’s enormous library. It houses an impressive collection of classic books and is home to a special book.
Meanwhile, to Piper’s horror, her aunt is determined to replace the priceless literary treasure trove with cheap fakes. And what what’s up with her yellow life raft dreams?
Interwoven throughout the children’s story is another one. From far away. But you’ll you have to get the book to find out more about that. While you’re at it, kindly remember peanut butter. Lavender and eucalyptus. Peppermint dreams. The age old question of why bad things happen to good people and It’s Not Fair!
Sturdy, solid writing combined with an effervescent imagination serve up a deliciously creative plot. Chapters are brief and easily digested, teeming with delightful allusions to well-loved literary classics. Characters are well-rounded and believable. The plot moves swiftly, like Secretariat rocketing around the final turn of the Belmont Stakes.
Readers will love becoming totally and completely submersed in a story or literary character who understands you in a way no one else can.
This book was so much fun in a Narnia and Inkheart-ish sort of way! Reading The Edge of Everywhen, you may even find yourself in a “thin place.” I didn’t want it to end.
Although tailored to middle schoolers, anyone who relishes the magic and mystery of books and all That Stuff will enjoy The Edge of Everywhen. As for me? Well, the next time I’m in the library I think I’ll close my eyes and listen. Because, Dear Reader, everyone’s story matters.
#TheEdgeofEverywhen
#NetGalley
May 14, 2020
The Edge of Everywhen follows the lives of Piper and Phoenix Guthrie, who have just lost their mother, Naomi, in a freak car accident and their father, Gordon, has been missing for the past two years. Piper and Phoenix have to go live with their Aunt Beryl in Maine, after only meeting her once many, many years ago. This isn’t an ideal situation for either of them, as Piper feels like she has to step up to the mother role for Phoenix, as he has ASD, and doesn’t cope well with changes and new people. Sofia and Mr Greene, the cook and the butler respectively, play such an important roles within the book, providing maternal and paternal like figures in their lives as they cope with a major change in their lives.
Aunt Beryl’s house is made to feel like a prison for the children – they can’t run inside, they have to eat their meals at a very set structured time, Beryl is very cold towards the children, they aren’t allowed in certain rooms in the house, which to Piper’s dismay, the library room is off limits. That is until a book speaks to Phoenix and Piper, and then Phoenix sneakily takes it from the library, filling the spot with one of Piper’s books shes received from home. This book changes the lives of everyone in the house, for the better of course. Then everything in Maine starts to look up for Piper and Phoenix because of this little, blue glowing book.
This book is nothing like I’ve ever read before, especially a middle grade book. I did initially struggle with this book, as the first chapter is wordy, but I couldn’t help but be sucked in by a book written from the perspective of another book, Novus Fabula. I was so curious to continue reading to see where the story went. I initially requested it because of the cover, I kind of expected a Chronicles of Narnia feel, which it didn’t hit that mark, but it was completely different in it’s own right.
I’m a sucker for chapters having titles and especially when these titles related to what is going to happen within the upcoming chapter. This was the case with The Edge of Everywhen. On top of this, the chapters also had a related quote, which I absolutely adored this addition.
I truly loved the slow progression of Phoenix – it really hit me in the heart feels. It was the most beautiful part of the book, which I think would have been missed for the middle grade audience, but would hit the heart strings of any reader that is older than middle grade. Seeing Aunt Beryl slowly break down her walls after the death of her husband with the addition of her niece and nephew was such a beautiful way to end the book.
I’m not someone who would normally pick up a Christian fiction novel, but the religious aspects within the novel were done really intelligently and well, and in a way that was subtle but I also found them important in the novel.
Thank you very much to B & H Publishing Group for providing me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Aunt Beryl’s house is made to feel like a prison for the children – they can’t run inside, they have to eat their meals at a very set structured time, Beryl is very cold towards the children, they aren’t allowed in certain rooms in the house, which to Piper’s dismay, the library room is off limits. That is until a book speaks to Phoenix and Piper, and then Phoenix sneakily takes it from the library, filling the spot with one of Piper’s books shes received from home. This book changes the lives of everyone in the house, for the better of course. Then everything in Maine starts to look up for Piper and Phoenix because of this little, blue glowing book.
This book is nothing like I’ve ever read before, especially a middle grade book. I did initially struggle with this book, as the first chapter is wordy, but I couldn’t help but be sucked in by a book written from the perspective of another book, Novus Fabula. I was so curious to continue reading to see where the story went. I initially requested it because of the cover, I kind of expected a Chronicles of Narnia feel, which it didn’t hit that mark, but it was completely different in it’s own right.
I’m a sucker for chapters having titles and especially when these titles related to what is going to happen within the upcoming chapter. This was the case with The Edge of Everywhen. On top of this, the chapters also had a related quote, which I absolutely adored this addition.
I truly loved the slow progression of Phoenix – it really hit me in the heart feels. It was the most beautiful part of the book, which I think would have been missed for the middle grade audience, but would hit the heart strings of any reader that is older than middle grade. Seeing Aunt Beryl slowly break down her walls after the death of her husband with the addition of her niece and nephew was such a beautiful way to end the book.
I’m not someone who would normally pick up a Christian fiction novel, but the religious aspects within the novel were done really intelligently and well, and in a way that was subtle but I also found them important in the novel.
Thank you very much to B & H Publishing Group for providing me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
May 4, 2020
A wonder-filled adventure, with real world truths that stand strong after the last page is turned.
Piper and Phoenix are a brother and sister, who share a special bond. After the death of their mother and disappearance of their father they are sent to live with their father's older sister Aunt Beryl, where the discover a mysterious and wonderful book.
I loved how this book is told from the perspective of the book, and I couldn't help but think multiple times that this would make a fantastic audiobook read by a grandfatherly man with a cultured accent.
For me this book struck all the right notes, and is a story that could easily be enjoyed by the whole family, though the target reading level is middle grade/tween. This book will be especially appreciated by booklovers, as many well-beloved books are mentioned throughout, and Piper is a girl after my book-loving heart.
There are many wonderful characters, I especially liked Mr. Greene, and his kind, thoughtful countenance. Phoenix is a very intelligent boy, and I loved the relationship between him and his sister. There are fun quotes woven throughout the book at the beginning of each new chapter, some real and some made up, and I loved how they enhanced the story. Also this book does an excellent job of capturing the fantastic whimsy of this story, while revealing solid truths in a natural way that flowed within the fibers of the story without feeling forced.
I went into this book not knowing what to expect, and came away completely blown away and impressed with how well written this book was, and how well it presented spiritual truths. It is a book that stays with you after the last page is turned down, and the more I thought about the things that I liked in preparation for this review, the more things I found to appreciate. This book has a classic and inviting feel to it, and even though the main characters are children I never thought that this story over simplified or talked down to the reader, which brought to mind warm thoughts of Narnia and Mister Rogers Neighborhood. This is a wonderful adventure that I highly recommend for the whole family!
I received a complimentary ecopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Piper and Phoenix are a brother and sister, who share a special bond. After the death of their mother and disappearance of their father they are sent to live with their father's older sister Aunt Beryl, where the discover a mysterious and wonderful book.
I loved how this book is told from the perspective of the book, and I couldn't help but think multiple times that this would make a fantastic audiobook read by a grandfatherly man with a cultured accent.
For me this book struck all the right notes, and is a story that could easily be enjoyed by the whole family, though the target reading level is middle grade/tween. This book will be especially appreciated by booklovers, as many well-beloved books are mentioned throughout, and Piper is a girl after my book-loving heart.
There are many wonderful characters, I especially liked Mr. Greene, and his kind, thoughtful countenance. Phoenix is a very intelligent boy, and I loved the relationship between him and his sister. There are fun quotes woven throughout the book at the beginning of each new chapter, some real and some made up, and I loved how they enhanced the story. Also this book does an excellent job of capturing the fantastic whimsy of this story, while revealing solid truths in a natural way that flowed within the fibers of the story without feeling forced.
I went into this book not knowing what to expect, and came away completely blown away and impressed with how well written this book was, and how well it presented spiritual truths. It is a book that stays with you after the last page is turned down, and the more I thought about the things that I liked in preparation for this review, the more things I found to appreciate. This book has a classic and inviting feel to it, and even though the main characters are children I never thought that this story over simplified or talked down to the reader, which brought to mind warm thoughts of Narnia and Mister Rogers Neighborhood. This is a wonderful adventure that I highly recommend for the whole family!
I received a complimentary ecopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 19, 2020
Disclosure: I received this book for free in exchange for a review.
Before reading the book, I didn't really have expectations about the story. I jumped right in blind! Yet from the beginning, I was struck by its captivating style. Mackey does a phenomenal job at bringing you into the world of the book (and books in general--more on that below) from the get-go. Immediately, there are mysteries that pull you in, but it plays out more like a "slice of life." I appreciated it as a more realistic and "literary" approach to storytelling.
One of my favorite parts about opening a fiction book is the chance to step into the shoes of someone else, someone new with their own unique perspective. In "Edge of Everywhen," I looked through the eyes of a young girl, but I also experienced--through her eyes--the lives of parents, people with deep pain, an autistic boy, and a dyslexic woman. Her honest portrayal of people with real-life struggles is an admirable feat, especially for Christian literature!
Finally, I want to comment on the book's message and themes. Mackey approached the moral lesson in a unique and fascinating way. The book isn't pedantic where the children "learn a lesson;" I feel instead they experience a lesson. One of the adult characters, Mr. Greene, is certainly one with whimsical wisdom--he is a believer in God who delivers some masterful lines. Yet there are never any hit-you-over-the-head-with-a-Bible moments. In fact, when I finally put down "The Edge of Everywhen" I had a jarring moment where I asked myself "What am I supposed to learn?" The plot is wrapped up, but the message isn't as clear--I am forced to continue reflecting on the material, to continue to ask myself about my own story. Though different than other children's literature, the open-ended message make it, to me, much more powerful.
I'd recommend this book for children ages 10 to 14. Avid readers, especially those that have read many classic children's books like "Harry Potter" or "Bridge to Terabithia," will probably appreciate it more. Though there is discussion of death and loss, Mackey smoothly navigates emotions in a way that could benefit a child who experienced similar things.
A great book!
Before reading the book, I didn't really have expectations about the story. I jumped right in blind! Yet from the beginning, I was struck by its captivating style. Mackey does a phenomenal job at bringing you into the world of the book (and books in general--more on that below) from the get-go. Immediately, there are mysteries that pull you in, but it plays out more like a "slice of life." I appreciated it as a more realistic and "literary" approach to storytelling.
One of my favorite parts about opening a fiction book is the chance to step into the shoes of someone else, someone new with their own unique perspective. In "Edge of Everywhen," I looked through the eyes of a young girl, but I also experienced--through her eyes--the lives of parents, people with deep pain, an autistic boy, and a dyslexic woman. Her honest portrayal of people with real-life struggles is an admirable feat, especially for Christian literature!
Finally, I want to comment on the book's message and themes. Mackey approached the moral lesson in a unique and fascinating way. The book isn't pedantic where the children "learn a lesson;" I feel instead they experience a lesson. One of the adult characters, Mr. Greene, is certainly one with whimsical wisdom--he is a believer in God who delivers some masterful lines. Yet there are never any hit-you-over-the-head-with-a-Bible moments. In fact, when I finally put down "The Edge of Everywhen" I had a jarring moment where I asked myself "What am I supposed to learn?" The plot is wrapped up, but the message isn't as clear--I am forced to continue reflecting on the material, to continue to ask myself about my own story. Though different than other children's literature, the open-ended message make it, to me, much more powerful.
I'd recommend this book for children ages 10 to 14. Avid readers, especially those that have read many classic children's books like "Harry Potter" or "Bridge to Terabithia," will probably appreciate it more. Though there is discussion of death and loss, Mackey smoothly navigates emotions in a way that could benefit a child who experienced similar things.
A great book!
February 18, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and B&H Kids for a digital review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
A book about a self-proclaimed book nerd and narrated by a magical book? Count me in. Books about books are either great or pretty meh. I am happy to report that this one is on the pretty great side of the spectrum. While it was a tad to comprehend where this book was going at the very beginning, it quickly came together and hooked me. Each of the characters also had something important to add to the story, so it was almost like peeling an onion.
When their mother dies in a car crash, the two are shipped off to an Aunt Beryl's house where they feel like unwelcome intruders. The butler and housekeeper are kind, but their aunt ignores them and tells them areas that they have to stay away from. One of those areas is the library, which of course the kids can't stay out of, especially when one of the books calls to them. Piper is especially upset when she overhears her aunt planning to get rid of all of the books and put up fakes.
The book that glows and calls to them is in fact our narrator. The Novus Fabula is a special book that helps the children get through this trying period of their lives. Piper and Mr. Greene, the butler, also talk a great deal about how books in general can help you get through difficult situations and the power that books have.
The Edge of Everywhen is a magical book about finding your story. Sometimes you need a little push to get through the hard parts of life, but faith, friendship, and family can help you get through. This is a very special middle grade novel.
One final note, I had not thought of this book as overtly religious until reading some of the other reviews. It is sort of like not feeling that The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe was Christian until others told me that. There are moments when Mr. Greene talks about the "thin space" that is closer to God, but I let that go. So if you like that this is a good Christian values kind of thing, then great. If you are not Christian, know that it isn't dogmatic and still a wonderful story.
A book about a self-proclaimed book nerd and narrated by a magical book? Count me in. Books about books are either great or pretty meh. I am happy to report that this one is on the pretty great side of the spectrum. While it was a tad to comprehend where this book was going at the very beginning, it quickly came together and hooked me. Each of the characters also had something important to add to the story, so it was almost like peeling an onion.
When their mother dies in a car crash, the two are shipped off to an Aunt Beryl's house where they feel like unwelcome intruders. The butler and housekeeper are kind, but their aunt ignores them and tells them areas that they have to stay away from. One of those areas is the library, which of course the kids can't stay out of, especially when one of the books calls to them. Piper is especially upset when she overhears her aunt planning to get rid of all of the books and put up fakes.
The book that glows and calls to them is in fact our narrator. The Novus Fabula is a special book that helps the children get through this trying period of their lives. Piper and Mr. Greene, the butler, also talk a great deal about how books in general can help you get through difficult situations and the power that books have.
The Edge of Everywhen is a magical book about finding your story. Sometimes you need a little push to get through the hard parts of life, but faith, friendship, and family can help you get through. This is a very special middle grade novel.
One final note, I had not thought of this book as overtly religious until reading some of the other reviews. It is sort of like not feeling that The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe was Christian until others told me that. There are moments when Mr. Greene talks about the "thin space" that is closer to God, but I let that go. So if you like that this is a good Christian values kind of thing, then great. If you are not Christian, know that it isn't dogmatic and still a wonderful story.
September 11, 2020
This is an imaginative, delightful, enchanting read I could not put down. I enjoyed all the book quotes that kicked off each chapter. Like this one, “I’ve left a bit of myself in every bookstore and library I’ve had the pleasure of occupying – Elisabeth Joyce Gott.”
I loved Piper’s passion for the written word and the creativity of her brother Phoenix, who developed a secret language for them to communicate. Phoenix had stopped speaking when he was about 5 years old. No one knows why. He also was autistic. Piper was very protective of her brother. “The mystery of autism had caused Phoenix to go silent years ago...”
The children have lost their mother in a horrible accident and their father had gone missing overseas business adventure. They were headed to their Aunt Beryl whom they met once, when Piper was three years old. Now her and her brother were sent to live with her forever. The author pulls readers into this magical story through Piper and her brother Phoenix as they uncover some pretty amazing things. A talking book for one. I liked how the author broke through the third wall and talked directly to the reader pulling them into the magic of its pages as well.
Mr. Green helps Piper with all her books. That’s when Phoenix makes a wonderful discovery that changes everything. Phoenix tells Piper to read a book that he’s found. She was surprised but starts to read and has an experience she’ll never forget.
Piper tells Mr. Greene, “…The magic lives within its pages, and the words will still be able to reach inside and change the reader. I imagine that very few people would be immune to it.”
This book is just plain fun. I recommend it for everyone who loves books!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org
I loved Piper’s passion for the written word and the creativity of her brother Phoenix, who developed a secret language for them to communicate. Phoenix had stopped speaking when he was about 5 years old. No one knows why. He also was autistic. Piper was very protective of her brother. “The mystery of autism had caused Phoenix to go silent years ago...”
The children have lost their mother in a horrible accident and their father had gone missing overseas business adventure. They were headed to their Aunt Beryl whom they met once, when Piper was three years old. Now her and her brother were sent to live with her forever. The author pulls readers into this magical story through Piper and her brother Phoenix as they uncover some pretty amazing things. A talking book for one. I liked how the author broke through the third wall and talked directly to the reader pulling them into the magic of its pages as well.
Mr. Green helps Piper with all her books. That’s when Phoenix makes a wonderful discovery that changes everything. Phoenix tells Piper to read a book that he’s found. She was surprised but starts to read and has an experience she’ll never forget.
Piper tells Mr. Greene, “…The magic lives within its pages, and the words will still be able to reach inside and change the reader. I imagine that very few people would be immune to it.”
This book is just plain fun. I recommend it for everyone who loves books!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org
April 29, 2020
I am one of the lucky ones that had the pleasure of reading The Edge of Everywhen before publication.
First, I'm going to say, stick with it. When I first started to read, I do admit that I nearly put it down and not pick it up again. Immediately I thought it was very clever being told from the perspective of an actual book, but the first chapter or so was very wordy (for a lack of a better description). I had started to read this to my almost teenager, she didn't want me to read anymore because of the clever big words used and not knowing what some of them were and the over descriptions.
I found myself bored and so picked this up again and again nearly put it down for its references to God. From the way it was mentioned I thought it was going to turn out to be a book pushing religion at me, which is something I tend to avoid as I like to keep my beliefs to myself and don't like it when it feels like people are trying to force their views onto me. I am glad I did not put it down again. Once the first couple of chapters were finished it moved into a lovely flow and was easy to read in the end and I did not want to put it down.
I enjoyed reading about spirited Piper whose love of the written word was endearing. Phoenix, an autistic boy who sends secret messages to his sister, loves books as much as her and has a way with animals as well as his own special gifts.
Mr Greene and Sophia were also great characters and easy to relate to.
I found it difficult to relate to the aunt because we seldom see her in this book until the end when it is too late for me to feel anything about her.
The father as well, I thought he was a bit short changed. I was very interested to see what would happen and how he would make it back, but felt it was skipped through. It didn't change my like for this title, but it made me wish there was just a bit more.
All and all, I am glad I read this. I will recommend to those I feel will enjoy and I will most likely pick this up again and read it for the second time.
First, I'm going to say, stick with it. When I first started to read, I do admit that I nearly put it down and not pick it up again. Immediately I thought it was very clever being told from the perspective of an actual book, but the first chapter or so was very wordy (for a lack of a better description). I had started to read this to my almost teenager, she didn't want me to read anymore because of the clever big words used and not knowing what some of them were and the over descriptions.
I found myself bored and so picked this up again and again nearly put it down for its references to God. From the way it was mentioned I thought it was going to turn out to be a book pushing religion at me, which is something I tend to avoid as I like to keep my beliefs to myself and don't like it when it feels like people are trying to force their views onto me. I am glad I did not put it down again. Once the first couple of chapters were finished it moved into a lovely flow and was easy to read in the end and I did not want to put it down.
I enjoyed reading about spirited Piper whose love of the written word was endearing. Phoenix, an autistic boy who sends secret messages to his sister, loves books as much as her and has a way with animals as well as his own special gifts.
Mr Greene and Sophia were also great characters and easy to relate to.
I found it difficult to relate to the aunt because we seldom see her in this book until the end when it is too late for me to feel anything about her.
The father as well, I thought he was a bit short changed. I was very interested to see what would happen and how he would make it back, but felt it was skipped through. It didn't change my like for this title, but it made me wish there was just a bit more.
All and all, I am glad I read this. I will recommend to those I feel will enjoy and I will most likely pick this up again and read it for the second time.
May 30, 2020
The Edge of Everywhen by A. S. Mackey is billed as a middle-grade book but I think this is a book for the whole family to read and enjoy.
Thirteen-year-old Piper and her autistic brother, Phoenix, are sent to live with Aunt Beryl after their mother passes away in a car accident. Their father is also missing while working construction overseas. Together Piper and Phoenix find a mysterious book calling to them from Aunt Beryl's library. Novus Fabula is a story that will speak to each of them and change their lives forever.
I truly enjoyed The Edge of Everywhen I found Piper and Phoenix to be a very likable main characters. I was rooting for them through the book but I also liked Beryl by the end of the book and enjoyed the other characters. Within the fantasy realm, this story was captivating and uplifting. I liked the message that we all have our own special stories and that God speaks to each of us using different means. Even though we get a glimpse of the hard challenges the children's father faces in the book, I liked that the author made sure we know that God was watching over Gordon through it all. I liked how well the faith element was woven in to this book and I liked the encouraging words. I also liked that one of the main characters was autistic as my son has autism. While I don't want to give away any spoilers, I liked that the book showed that positive changes and good things came after the hard things. It moved me to tears in a couple of places. I could see this speaking to many families. It would be a book that my family would enjoy reading out loud together. I would encourage you to give The Edge of Everywhen a try and I hope the author has more books coming.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions within this review are my own.
Thirteen-year-old Piper and her autistic brother, Phoenix, are sent to live with Aunt Beryl after their mother passes away in a car accident. Their father is also missing while working construction overseas. Together Piper and Phoenix find a mysterious book calling to them from Aunt Beryl's library. Novus Fabula is a story that will speak to each of them and change their lives forever.
I truly enjoyed The Edge of Everywhen I found Piper and Phoenix to be a very likable main characters. I was rooting for them through the book but I also liked Beryl by the end of the book and enjoyed the other characters. Within the fantasy realm, this story was captivating and uplifting. I liked the message that we all have our own special stories and that God speaks to each of us using different means. Even though we get a glimpse of the hard challenges the children's father faces in the book, I liked that the author made sure we know that God was watching over Gordon through it all. I liked how well the faith element was woven in to this book and I liked the encouraging words. I also liked that one of the main characters was autistic as my son has autism. While I don't want to give away any spoilers, I liked that the book showed that positive changes and good things came after the hard things. It moved me to tears in a couple of places. I could see this speaking to many families. It would be a book that my family would enjoy reading out loud together. I would encourage you to give The Edge of Everywhen a try and I hope the author has more books coming.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions within this review are my own.
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