Perfect Patchwork Purse

Hand-Me-Down Magic #3

by Corey Ann Haydu, Luisa Uribe (Illustrator)

Family magic saves the day for best-friend-cousins Del and Alma in the third Hand-Me-Down Magic book. With adorable illustrations and short, easy-to-read chapters, this series is perfect for fans of Ivy & Bean and Dory Fantasmagory. Alma knew it the first time she saw The patchwork purse in the window of the Curious Cousins Secondhand Shoppe was magical. Special. Perfect . But when her friend Cassie spots the purse and buys it, what could Alma do but agree that the purse really did look just right on Cassie? Del decides it’s up to her to bring some homespun magic back into Alma’s life, and she’s got just the plan to do it. After all, she is the EXPERT on magic! All she needs is some glitter and lots and lots of glue . . . because she knows magic can always come from the most unexpected places, but most importantly, that best-friend-cousins never let each other down. Corey Ann Haydu’s writing is filled with tender moments, wholesome humor, and magical detail—reminiscent of literary icons like Beverly Clearly, Marla Frazee, and Katherine Applegate. This chapter book series is pitch perfect for kids reading at this young level. And Luisa Uribe's stunning black-and-white illustrations capture the warmth and unique personality of each character. Enjoy the whole

Genres: Middle Grade

128 pages, Paperback

Published May 4, 2021

Reviews

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three cousins, three friends, who live in the same building and look out for each other. When classmate Cassie buys the purse that was hanging in the window of the Curious Cousins Secondhand Shoppe, Alma was devasted. That purse was supposed to be hers—and give her the magic she needed. “…even though [Alma] didn’t believe in magic the way Del did or the way Abuelita did— which was a whole lot—she believed things were not always what they seemed. She believed that something ordinary could become something special.” (3)

As the purse continues to supply magical items to Cassie, Alma becomes more and more upset, and best-friend cousin Del decides she has to do something about it, even if it means giving up her solo in the school show. “Abuelita gave great advice, but she never told Del exactly what to do. Del had to figure that out on her own. Or maybe with the help of her littlest cousin [Evie].” (49)

They never give up until they find magic for Alma, her own magic. “Del and Evie both knew that sometimes magic was hard to see, especially if you didn’t look for it.” (51)

Readers of my reviews know that I mainly review MG/YA novels and some picture books, but I am generally not a reader of “chapter books.” I was sent this little book and fell in love with the characters, primarily with their relationships and how they take care of each other. Even Cassie volunteers to return the purse so Alma can have it. “They held their hands up, admiring their little reminder that there was always enough magic—and friendship—to go around. Always, always.” (110)

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Third in the series. The cousins continue to explore the magic in their home and lives. Alma continues to doubt herself and magic. The story opens with Del's friend, Cassie, purchasing the purse that Alma feels drawn to and believes holds her magic. We see Alma struggle with jealousy and fears as Del and Evie try to make her feel better. They even create a personalized patchwork purse to show their love. Shorter chapters make this an easy read for mid-elementary level. They will relate to the characters' emotions and struggles to fit in and believe in themselves.

[Brenda Schneider · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun story or magic and friends. I won this book through goodreads.