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The Wishing Seed
Mona dislikes change. And with a recent move across the country and the prospect of new friends at a new school—seventh grade doesn’t sound promising. In fact, she’s determined not to go at all.
Mona begins to dream, hope, and wish for a way out. She’s grown up hearing stories of fairy tales and magical worlds—of beanstalks and transportable wardrobes—but do they really exist?
When she stumbles upon a strange seed and determines to plant it, hopeful it might grow into her means of escape, she realizes she may have planted more than she bargained for.
The Wishing Seed is a coming-of-age tale about two sisters, new friendships, love, and forgiveness—all the while exploring what it means to bear good fruit.
With just a little wish, trust, and silver dust, will Mona find what she’s looking for? Or will her secrets ruin everything she’s planned?
Mona begins to dream, hope, and wish for a way out. She’s grown up hearing stories of fairy tales and magical worlds—of beanstalks and transportable wardrobes—but do they really exist?
When she stumbles upon a strange seed and determines to plant it, hopeful it might grow into her means of escape, she realizes she may have planted more than she bargained for.
The Wishing Seed is a coming-of-age tale about two sisters, new friendships, love, and forgiveness—all the while exploring what it means to bear good fruit.
With just a little wish, trust, and silver dust, will Mona find what she’s looking for? Or will her secrets ruin everything she’s planned?
224 pages, Hardcover
First published July 7, 2021
9 people are currently reading
518 people want to read
About the author
Alissa J. Zavalianos
8 books510 followersAlissa J. Zavalianos grew up in New Hampshire and currently lives there with her wonderful husband, sweet daughter, and mischievous cat, Moo. As a child, she always had a love for nature, books, and fairy tales, and as she grew older, that love bloomed all the more. Alissa loves Jesus and is inspired by birds, mountains, castles, Tolkien, Lewis, and the way a cold breath of wind feels on her bare toes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
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December 23, 2024Author’s Note:
This story surprised me. I didn't know this story was going to be told, nor was it something that I had planned. But that gives me hope; stories can literally be birthed from out of the blue, at random moments, and with just pure imagination.
This project began in September of 2020, and just shy of a year, it's complete. I never thought that would happen.
I truly love this little story, and I pray it finds its way somewhere in your hearts as well.
:)
This story surprised me. I didn't know this story was going to be told, nor was it something that I had planned. But that gives me hope; stories can literally be birthed from out of the blue, at random moments, and with just pure imagination.
This project began in September of 2020, and just shy of a year, it's complete. I never thought that would happen.
I truly love this little story, and I pray it finds its way somewhere in your hearts as well.
:)
September 13, 2021
This is a very sweet, short, and endearing story about growing up. I related to Mona in so many different ways (hello me starting 9th grade alone in my class since my one friend had left) and I loved her journey throughout this story. Alissa has a very endearing style, reminiscent of the classic children's books I loved growing up, and I enjoyed reading this story of how our actions impact the fruit we bear.
My only complaint is that I wish we could have seen more of the ending. ;) I can't give away details because spoilers, but I wish I could have seen what happens next.
My only complaint is that I wish we could have seen more of the ending. ;) I can't give away details because spoilers, but I wish I could have seen what happens next.
March 18, 2023
sweet (heh) story with a good message
Read this for middle-grade March—I don’t read a lot of MG fiction but I enjoyed it!
Starting seventh grade at a brand-new place is intimidating, so Mona makes a wish: that SOMETHING will take her away …
When a mysterious seed grows into an even more mysterious tree, she learns lessons in honesty and friendship. And who knows, maybe her wish will come true after all!
This story is BEGGING for a sequel (any plans. Alissa? 👀), as I would love to read more about Mona’s magical, heartwarming adventures.
There was a bit of a twist at the end that I felt could have used a bit more foreshadowing, but overall a fun read that I’ll recommend to my girls when they’re older!
Read this for middle-grade March—I don’t read a lot of MG fiction but I enjoyed it!
Starting seventh grade at a brand-new place is intimidating, so Mona makes a wish: that SOMETHING will take her away …
When a mysterious seed grows into an even more mysterious tree, she learns lessons in honesty and friendship. And who knows, maybe her wish will come true after all!
This story is BEGGING for a sequel (any plans. Alissa? 👀), as I would love to read more about Mona’s magical, heartwarming adventures.
There was a bit of a twist at the end that I felt could have used a bit more foreshadowing, but overall a fun read that I’ll recommend to my girls when they’re older!
July 30, 2021
What a magical read! Mona dislikes change. And with a recent move across the country & the prospect of new friends at a new school-seventh grade doesn't sound promising. In fact, she's determined not to go at all. Mona begins to dream, hope, & wish for a way out. She's grown up hearing stories of fairy tales & magical worlds-of beanstalks & transportable wardrobes-but do they really exist? When she stumbles upon a strange seed & determines to plant it, hopeful it might grow into her means of escape, she realizes she may have planted more than she bargained for.
I adored this book! Mona was such a relatable character. Her family is also one of the best families I’ve read-both her parents(I especially love her dad), her younger sister Lisa, & of course Mona. They are all such a team, & they definitely are “family goals”. They aren’t perfect, which makes them all the more relatable. The sister relationship that was explored in here was brilliantly done I thought, & you could really see both sides of being a younger sister & an older sister. There’s a big focus on faith, & being the best person you can be. I’m a Christian, so I loved the aspects of faith in here, but if you don’t care for that-don’t worry, the author does an amazing job of effortlessly weaving it into the story, & it not coming off as “preachy”.
Not only is the family dynamic amazing, but so is the friendship dynamic. I loved the relationship between Mona, Pollie, & Jeremy-Jeremy has my heart! Such an amazing character! The magic in here is so creative, & I loved it. Every detail in here is so great-from the seed, the tree(& its whole story), the fruit..right down to the backstory of how Mona was named. Loved it all. So many touching moments throughout the book, & it’s also full of life lessons that are so important. Did NOT see that HUGE twist at the end coming! Wowza! I need a book 2 now! Lol Highly recommend! Stunning cover by Germancreative too!💜
I adored this book! Mona was such a relatable character. Her family is also one of the best families I’ve read-both her parents(I especially love her dad), her younger sister Lisa, & of course Mona. They are all such a team, & they definitely are “family goals”. They aren’t perfect, which makes them all the more relatable. The sister relationship that was explored in here was brilliantly done I thought, & you could really see both sides of being a younger sister & an older sister. There’s a big focus on faith, & being the best person you can be. I’m a Christian, so I loved the aspects of faith in here, but if you don’t care for that-don’t worry, the author does an amazing job of effortlessly weaving it into the story, & it not coming off as “preachy”.
Not only is the family dynamic amazing, but so is the friendship dynamic. I loved the relationship between Mona, Pollie, & Jeremy-Jeremy has my heart! Such an amazing character! The magic in here is so creative, & I loved it. Every detail in here is so great-from the seed, the tree(& its whole story), the fruit..right down to the backstory of how Mona was named. Loved it all. So many touching moments throughout the book, & it’s also full of life lessons that are so important. Did NOT see that HUGE twist at the end coming! Wowza! I need a book 2 now! Lol Highly recommend! Stunning cover by Germancreative too!💜
June 29, 2022
I was blown away by this book! I mean, I always am by Alissa Zavalianos' stories, and The Wishing Seed was no exception!
She did a fantastic job with the story and the characters and I loved each of them dearly. The relationships were all so genuine and authentic to how things are at that age, and remarkably represented. I wish this book had been around when I was a young girl because I think I would have related so much to Mona and learned a lot from her as well.
I won't give away any spoilers, but the twist at the end was absolutely delightful! I was grinning from ear to ear and so excited at how the story was unfolding! A spectacular surprise indeed!
But, of course, the themes of the story were what captivated me the most. Alissa did such a fantastic job of creating a picture of repentance and sanctification that really meets kids where they are, while also serving my heart and helping me to see what a heart of obedience looks like in a new light.
10/10 would recommend to all ages!
She did a fantastic job with the story and the characters and I loved each of them dearly. The relationships were all so genuine and authentic to how things are at that age, and remarkably represented. I wish this book had been around when I was a young girl because I think I would have related so much to Mona and learned a lot from her as well.
I won't give away any spoilers, but the twist at the end was absolutely delightful! I was grinning from ear to ear and so excited at how the story was unfolding! A spectacular surprise indeed!
But, of course, the themes of the story were what captivated me the most. Alissa did such a fantastic job of creating a picture of repentance and sanctification that really meets kids where they are, while also serving my heart and helping me to see what a heart of obedience looks like in a new light.
10/10 would recommend to all ages!
December 31, 2022
This book took a turn at the end that I did not expect. Wow, that was a lot of fun. Zavalianos has a great middle grade voice and I hope we get more from her. The characters were great and the plot moved at the perfect pace.
July 9, 2023
I really, really loved this book!! It’s so well written and is such a sweet story. It has eternal truths, taught so naturally and in a true to life way. It has those difficult childlike heartbreaks along with healing ones. It’s a book I’m looking forward to introducing my kids to some day. Can’t compliment this one enough!
February 23, 2022
Love this story! Definitely such a good book for younger readers with a clean story line, important morals, and great characters!!
February 25, 2022
I adore this book. It’s a mid-grade book that has hope and joy in it. Alyssa did such a good job balancing biblical truths with reality. It wasn’t a boring story but a fascinating look at how lying can affect life. When you sow bad seeds, you reap bad fruit.
This was a fun story. Mona learns and grows throughout the book. Her parents were present and helpful(much better than 99% of mid-grade/YA novels where parents are either absent or terrible) I really loved the parents and her sister.
My favorite character had to be Jeremy though. I laughed so much at him. He was so fun to read.
If you love mid-grade books, read this. If you have a tween/teen have them read this book. As soon as I was finished I gave the book to my 9 year old daughter to read. I can’t wait to discuss it with her.
This was a fun story. Mona learns and grows throughout the book. Her parents were present and helpful(much better than 99% of mid-grade/YA novels where parents are either absent or terrible) I really loved the parents and her sister.
My favorite character had to be Jeremy though. I laughed so much at him. He was so fun to read.
If you love mid-grade books, read this. If you have a tween/teen have them read this book. As soon as I was finished I gave the book to my 9 year old daughter to read. I can’t wait to discuss it with her.
March 8, 2023
A beautiful story about forgiveness and the importance of honesty.
We follow Mona as she starts a new school year in a new school. Afraid she won't make any friends, Moma makes a wish on a magic seed in hopes she won't have to go, however things don't go to plan and rather quickly spiral out of control. Can Mona make the right choices and friends?
We follow Mona as she starts a new school year in a new school. Afraid she won't make any friends, Moma makes a wish on a magic seed in hopes she won't have to go, however things don't go to plan and rather quickly spiral out of control. Can Mona make the right choices and friends?
August 7, 2023
What can I say? This was a fantastic little book packed with life lessons and spiritual lessons alike. It's definitely going on the list of books to read with my kids if/when I have any.
The lessons about the importance of honesty and telling the truth even after you've told lies was so refreshing. There was grace and forgiveness while also acknowledgment of consequences for misdeeds.
As someone who has only one sibling--an older sister--I definitely had moments where I related to Lisa and knew exactly what she was going through because I had experienced it myself as a child. So, needless to say, the sibling interactions were well-written and quite believable! But I also felt like I understood and related to Mona. Just overall, there were multiple times where I stopped reading and went "wow. She (Alissa) perfectly captured what it's like to have a sister at that age."
The twist near the end made my jaw drop when I finally connected the dots, and the last page had me asking myself where the sequel was. 😂 (There's definitely room for a sequel!)
I read this book in one day, so if you're looking for an easy read with emotional depth and relatable characters, I highly recommend you pick up a copy for you and/or your kiddos!
The lessons about the importance of honesty and telling the truth even after you've told lies was so refreshing. There was grace and forgiveness while also acknowledgment of consequences for misdeeds.
As someone who has only one sibling--an older sister--I definitely had moments where I related to Lisa and knew exactly what she was going through because I had experienced it myself as a child. So, needless to say, the sibling interactions were well-written and quite believable! But I also felt like I understood and related to Mona. Just overall, there were multiple times where I stopped reading and went "wow. She (Alissa) perfectly captured what it's like to have a sister at that age."
The twist near the end made my jaw drop when I finally connected the dots, and the last page had me asking myself where the sequel was. 😂 (There's definitely room for a sequel!)
I read this book in one day, so if you're looking for an easy read with emotional depth and relatable characters, I highly recommend you pick up a copy for you and/or your kiddos!
July 3, 2021
Wow! What a magical story with such a surprising twist! “The Wishing Seed” is an incredibly fascinating tale! I am so happy to have read this story. Mona’s character is relatable and charming, you can’t help but feel like you’re one of her friends along for the ride! The writing style is whimsical and humorous. There are so many moving moments in this story. The story is laden with lessons that need to be heard. I truly did not suspect the twist towards the end! It’s been quite some time since I’ve read a book with a non-predictable ending. I think Mona’s journey is so significant and should be a stable to younger readers and those young at heart! I highly recommend this sweet story
July 3, 2021
Oh my goodness. I just finished and still like I am drifting in stardust. This Middle Grade novel was beautifully crafted, filled with Biblical truths, brilliant characters, and a dash mystery and lore. The Wishing Seed is a novel that can be enjoyed by dreamers of every age. I plan to purchase a copy for myself, a friend, and my local library. I hope there is another book to continue the characters' stories in the future.
I received a free copy of this story from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this story from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 14, 2021
This is a sweet book that teaches the importance of being honest, not only with yourself but others, and the consequences that follow if your not. Mona’s family was amazing. Her parents were there to correct and love her along the way and help her learn from her mistakes. After a few struggles, Mona makes some amazing friends with a few secrets of their own. Oh and this book has an ending you’ll never see coming.
April 15, 2022
This book is absolutely wonderful! Though it is intended as middle-grade reading, I loved it all the same. The story was brilliant, and the message contained within was truly beautiful. I can't wait until my daughter is old enough so she too can read this story, as it contains so many valuable lessons for all. And the plot twist toward the end really got me! I didn't see it coming, but it tied everything together so incredibly. Definitely one of my most favorite reads this year, thus far.
February 27, 2023
Dear Alissa,
This story is just as magical as you are. Not only as a writer, but as a person. I loved this book! How whimsical and beautiful it is. Especially the twist of Peter Pan. That was amazing foreshadowing!
I love your heart and spirit Alissa. You’re so good at what you do. You’re another C.S. Lewis to me. And an inspiration for my writing. Thank you for being my hero and also for showing through God’s faith that I have an amazing friend like you. Love you so much!
This story is just as magical as you are. Not only as a writer, but as a person. I loved this book! How whimsical and beautiful it is. Especially the twist of Peter Pan. That was amazing foreshadowing!
I love your heart and spirit Alissa. You’re so good at what you do. You’re another C.S. Lewis to me. And an inspiration for my writing. Thank you for being my hero and also for showing through God’s faith that I have an amazing friend like you. Love you so much!
May 31, 2022
This is an excellent book for a young reader. Alissa does a beautiful job of illustrating Mona's battle between bearing bitter and good fruit, the former being motivated out of fear and selfishness and the latter being motivated out of love and honesty.
June 15, 2022
This was a whimsical fairy-taleish story. I loved every page of it, and I highly recommend it!
February 15, 2023
This book is quite good. I enjoyed it. It is definitely show the parable about between good and bad in fruit , but the story also intertwined with retelling of Peter Pan. That was pretty cool.
October 17, 2021
This book is 11/10, and I'm hungry for a squeal. Would recommend for anybody, young or old, male or female. The author has done an outstanding job of telling such a wonderful story. Even if she's only published 2 books including this one, she writes as if she's had decades of practice. The suspense really keeps you on you're toes. Wanting read read more every day, one second you're on chapter 5 the next second you're on chapter 8 completely forgetting that you just read chapters 6 and 7. She does a really good job of simulating the surroundings, so it's as vivid as real so you don't even need pictures to tell what is happening. The books simplicity makes it easy to read fun to imagine while also using a wide variety of words and metaphors. The paste of the book was also incredible. Being fast to not bore anyone and slow to really let the emotions sink in. Really enjoyed reading this book. Words cannot express the joy you will have upon reading this book.
June 30, 2021
Zavalianos takes her readers on another page-turning journey with her second novel. She portrays the awkwardness and fear that plagues the years of many middle-schoolers, and weaves in an element of magic that will leave readers excitedly wondering what's going on with Mona's tree! It's refreshing to read a middle-grade novel with no suggestive or inappropriate scenes and language, yet still captivates the reader's attention. I've already purchased another copy for an eighth grader I know. She loved Zavalianos' first novel, The Earth-Treader, and I'm sure she will love The Wishing Seed, as well!
February 21, 2023
A lovely read that spoke of truth (of the literal and biblical kind) and overall gave the warm fuzzies ❤️ The twist at the end was totally unexpected but I was here for it. Magical and fun! I want a magic tree.
October 28, 2023
This is a very sweet, cozy fantasy story and I absolutely loved it! The characters and plot pacing were great.
I definitely related to Mona in her fear of not making friends and dreading school because of that. It was so satisfying to follow Mona’s journey in how she learns the values of honesty, courage, and how our actions affect the kind of fruit we bear. I also love that she comes from a Christian family and how their faith is openly shown throughout the book. Her relationships with her friends and family were just so wholesomely sweet and made the story even more enjoyable. This is the first book I’ve read by Alissa, but I’ll definitely be reading more from her in the future!
I definitely related to Mona in her fear of not making friends and dreading school because of that. It was so satisfying to follow Mona’s journey in how she learns the values of honesty, courage, and how our actions affect the kind of fruit we bear. I also love that she comes from a Christian family and how their faith is openly shown throughout the book. Her relationships with her friends and family were just so wholesomely sweet and made the story even more enjoyable. This is the first book I’ve read by Alissa, but I’ll definitely be reading more from her in the future!
July 9, 2021
I loved this sweet little story and I can't wait to pass this book down to my 14-year old granddaughter. Not only is this novel filled with magic and fantasy but it shares lessons too. Such a wonderful book to share with young ones. I would love to see a sequel...to explore more about Jeremy's background and his continued friendship with Mona. Thank you, Alissa, for opening me up to different genres with your two enjoyable books.
December 30, 2021
Charming!
I just finished this book and I found it to be very charming leaving a long lasting grin on my face. What a great story. The best thing is the unexpected twist. I don’t want to give too much away but it does confirm that one of my favorite stories of all time does exist…
“Just think of lovey things and your heart will fly on wings, forever in Never Neverland.”
I just finished this book and I found it to be very charming leaving a long lasting grin on my face. What a great story. The best thing is the unexpected twist. I don’t want to give too much away but it does confirm that one of my favorite stories of all time does exist…
“Just think of lovey things and your heart will fly on wings, forever in Never Neverland.”
February 24, 2023
Zavalianos impressed me with her writing and themes. I didn't LOVE the twist at the end (Including a certain well-loved character), but it didn't ruin the book either. It was just different.
October 30, 2025
I liked the ending the best! ✨
Question: Is Jeremy's mother Tinkerbell or something?
Question: Is Jeremy's mother Tinkerbell or something?
June 24, 2021
A delightful tale about growing up and discovering the meaning of “good fruit.”
Mona and her family moved to New England from Arizona toward the end of the summer. The night before the first day at her new school, 7th grader Mona happens upon a strange seed in her new backyard, and proceeds to sneak out and plant it during the night. Though she wishes the seed would grow into a beanstalk or something magical to transport her somewhere else, she can hardly believe it when the tree that grows truly is a magical one. As Mona navigates her new school, new and old relationships, she learns just how impactful the consequences of her choices can be.
I really enjoyed this middle grade adventure! Mona is a relatable character; she is anxious about making friends and succeeding in her new school. We have all felt that way at some point. But, she does make some friends - her friend Jeremy had me cracking up at times! Mona gives into the temptation to lie about certain things, and she learns the hard way that lying is never a good choice. Mona matured as a result of this experience, and it was encouraging to read - I love to see a character (or a person) succeed. I enjoyed her journey - and I don’t know if there’s a book 2 in the works, but it would be amazing!! This book has Christian themes, but it isn’t preachy. This is the type of wholesome literature I love. I definitely recommend this one!
*I received a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.*
Mona and her family moved to New England from Arizona toward the end of the summer. The night before the first day at her new school, 7th grader Mona happens upon a strange seed in her new backyard, and proceeds to sneak out and plant it during the night. Though she wishes the seed would grow into a beanstalk or something magical to transport her somewhere else, she can hardly believe it when the tree that grows truly is a magical one. As Mona navigates her new school, new and old relationships, she learns just how impactful the consequences of her choices can be.
I really enjoyed this middle grade adventure! Mona is a relatable character; she is anxious about making friends and succeeding in her new school. We have all felt that way at some point. But, she does make some friends - her friend Jeremy had me cracking up at times! Mona gives into the temptation to lie about certain things, and she learns the hard way that lying is never a good choice. Mona matured as a result of this experience, and it was encouraging to read - I love to see a character (or a person) succeed. I enjoyed her journey - and I don’t know if there’s a book 2 in the works, but it would be amazing!! This book has Christian themes, but it isn’t preachy. This is the type of wholesome literature I love. I definitely recommend this one!
*I received a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.*
August 10, 2021
The Wishing Seed is a great story about growth, forgiveness, friendship, and love. It is set in our modern world with a little fairytale twist and you will find magic sprinkled throughout the pages! This book is perfect for both young and old readers and its sweet message to "bear good fruit" is a wonderful reminder to us all.
December 12, 2021
I think this book was good, just not for me. I feel like I didn’t connect with the characters and stakes as much as most readers have because I simply don’t get invested in school stories (#homeschooled). I didn’t realize how much of it was going to be a “surviving middle school” plot line, with endless lunchroom scenes and group projects being major plot points. From the book’s description, I figured this was going to be a magical portal fantasy, and so I waited for most of the book for the magic to start. Because I went in with that kind of expectation, the pacing seemed all off to me. I think if the “big twist” at the end had instead happened near the beginning, as an inciting incident, the book would’ve been set up for a story that would be much more my speed. I really did love some of the descriptions, and the messages were rock solid, so this definitely might be someone else’s cup of tea.
(Ok, but seriously, grounded for a MONTH?! Do people actually do that to their kids? From most outsider perspectives, I think I’d be seen as having “strict” parents growing up, and yet that NEVER would’ve happened in my house. As a parent and a Christian, I cannot imagine punishing a child for and extended amount of time for the same sin. Like, what ever happened to the restoration of fellowship? Ok, I’m done *climbs off soap box* )
(Ok, but seriously, grounded for a MONTH?! Do people actually do that to their kids? From most outsider perspectives, I think I’d be seen as having “strict” parents growing up, and yet that NEVER would’ve happened in my house. As a parent and a Christian, I cannot imagine punishing a child for and extended amount of time for the same sin. Like, what ever happened to the restoration of fellowship? Ok, I’m done *climbs off soap box* )
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews