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Terracolina: A Place to Belong
Grandpa’s forest is dying, and Thomas has vowed to save it. Alone and determined on his mission, he stumbles upon Terracolina – an enchanted world overlooking the woods. After befriending the citizens of Terracolina, Thomas realizes that they need his help. Much like his Grandpa’s forest, their world is being destroyed. Can Thomas and his Terracolina friends work together to save their homes?
Brimming with magic and adventure, join Thomas on his journey to save two worlds! From Geven the mind-reading caretaker, to the ancient oily monsters who dwell under the earth, the world of Terracolina is filled with characters and plants that come to life on the page. In the debut novel from author Carla Kessler, join Thomas and his friends for a fantastical adventure of friendship, curiosity, and magic.
Brimming with magic and adventure, join Thomas on his journey to save two worlds! From Geven the mind-reading caretaker, to the ancient oily monsters who dwell under the earth, the world of Terracolina is filled with characters and plants that come to life on the page. In the debut novel from author Carla Kessler, join Thomas and his friends for a fantastical adventure of friendship, curiosity, and magic.
175 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 12, 2022
About the author
Carla Kessler
3 books38 followersCarla Kessler graduated from elementary school living through her favorite fantasy characters, you know —the ones who were going to save the world—to participating in civil rights protests in high school, until she found the place that truly empowered her—educating the next generation through the gift of music and writing. Also a cellist, gardener, and now author, she aspires to impassion those just starting on this same journey.
Read how the fanciful creatures and plants of Terracolina empower a young Thomas to make a difference in his real world.
Kindle ebook available now on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3E85FN3
Read how the fanciful creatures and plants of Terracolina empower a young Thomas to make a difference in his real world.
Kindle ebook available now on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3E85FN3
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
March 17, 2022
American debut author Carla Kessler’s Terracolina is the first of a soon to be published fantasy trilogy. Intended for middle grade readers, this magical realism tale features Thomas, a twelve-year-old boy wanting to save his grandfather’s forest. Whilst trying to understand the problem, he ends up exploring the woods, only to discover a new world of Terracolina. With its magical characters and plants, he befriends Geven, the garden caretaker mind reader. Soon, their environment is dying from poisonous slime and it’s up to Thomas to overcome adversity and retrieve the healing potion to save the plants. A captivating adventure that readers of all ages will enjoy, with an ecological theme that makes for a four-and-a-half-star read rating. With thanks to the author for an uncorrected advanced copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own and freely given, without any undue influence.
May 20, 2026
Such a cool and interesting book ❤️
May 7, 2024
“Terracolina – A Place to Belong” by Carla Kessler, with illustrations by Richard Kessler, is a captivating and imaginative tale that resonates deeply with the young and young at heart. This enchanting story follows the journey of twelve-year-old Thomas, who, on his birthday, embarks on an unexpected adventure in a magical garden named Terracolina. The book masterfully intertwines themes of environmental conservation, self-discovery, and the importance of finding one’s place in the world.
Thomas, a thoughtful and introspective boy, feels disconnected from his peers and misunderstood by his parents. He finds solace in the forest and the stories his late Grandpa once shared. On his twelfth birthday, Thomas’s discovery of the magical garden Terracolina, and its caretaker, Geven, marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey. The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Terracolina is attacked by the Olgrot, an ancient creature, and Thomas must undertake a perilous quest to save the garden.
Carla Kessler’s writing is beautifully evocative, capturing the essence of a young boy’s inner turmoil and his longing for a sense of belonging. The vivid descriptions of Terracolina and its enchanting inhabitants, coupled with Richard Kessler’s stunning illustrations, bring the magical world to life, making readers feel as if they are part of Thomas’s adventure.
The story is not just a fantastical tale but also a poignant exploration of environmental issues. The oil spill that threatens both Thomas’s real world and the magical world of Terracolina serves as a powerful metaphor for the environmental challenges we face today. Thomas’s journey is a call to action for young readers to be mindful of their impact on the planet and to find their voice in its preservation.
One of the most compelling aspects of the story is Thomas’s growth as a character. From a boy who feels life has passed him by, he evolves into someone who acknowledges his strengths and recognizes the importance of his role in the world. His longing for his Grandpa’s guidance is heart-touching, and his realization that he can make a difference is inspiring.
“Terracolina – A Place to Belong” is an enchanting and thought-provoking read that will appeal to readers of all ages. It is a tale of adventure, bravery, and the importance of finding one’s own path. The book encourages readers to believe in themselves and to understand that everyone has a unique role to play in making the world a better place. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good story and cares about the future of our planet.
Thomas, a thoughtful and introspective boy, feels disconnected from his peers and misunderstood by his parents. He finds solace in the forest and the stories his late Grandpa once shared. On his twelfth birthday, Thomas’s discovery of the magical garden Terracolina, and its caretaker, Geven, marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey. The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Terracolina is attacked by the Olgrot, an ancient creature, and Thomas must undertake a perilous quest to save the garden.
Carla Kessler’s writing is beautifully evocative, capturing the essence of a young boy’s inner turmoil and his longing for a sense of belonging. The vivid descriptions of Terracolina and its enchanting inhabitants, coupled with Richard Kessler’s stunning illustrations, bring the magical world to life, making readers feel as if they are part of Thomas’s adventure.
The story is not just a fantastical tale but also a poignant exploration of environmental issues. The oil spill that threatens both Thomas’s real world and the magical world of Terracolina serves as a powerful metaphor for the environmental challenges we face today. Thomas’s journey is a call to action for young readers to be mindful of their impact on the planet and to find their voice in its preservation.
One of the most compelling aspects of the story is Thomas’s growth as a character. From a boy who feels life has passed him by, he evolves into someone who acknowledges his strengths and recognizes the importance of his role in the world. His longing for his Grandpa’s guidance is heart-touching, and his realization that he can make a difference is inspiring.
“Terracolina – A Place to Belong” is an enchanting and thought-provoking read that will appeal to readers of all ages. It is a tale of adventure, bravery, and the importance of finding one’s own path. The book encourages readers to believe in themselves and to understand that everyone has a unique role to play in making the world a better place. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good story and cares about the future of our planet.
November 6, 2026
Clever, fanciful, adventurous, but not what I was hoping for.
April 12, 2022
When I downloaded the book, I was a little jittery about reading it. It was partly because it’d been long since I’d read a middle-grade book, and partly because I didn’t remember reading one critically, ever. However, I enjoyed the book a lot.
Take it from someone who hasn’t switched genres in more than a few months, the book is going to make you feel a sense of satisfaction you’ve been craving for. The tagline does justice to the book, Terracolina is indeed a place to belong. As a debut writer, Carla has done an impeccable job of writing the book.
I loved all of the characters, and Nelrim was the most adorable of them all. I absolutely love Crax and hope that Geven can now take care of his own garden with Misty. And the nubbins, such cute little creatures. Honestly, despite being gross (as the characters suggested), I actually find the olgrots adorable too. I don’t think there’s a single character I could despise even if I tried my hardest.
I enjoyed Thomas’ adventure from the edge of my seat, though I would’ve killed to read more of his interactions with Merlin. I really liked Thomas and Misty, and can totally see them growing up to be the best of friends (though I’m not sure how much does ‘grow up’ apply to Misty given Geven’s age).
The best part about the ending was that despite his cravings to retreat to Terracolina (trust me, I wouldn’t have blamed him once if he went and hid there for a lifetime), Thomas stays for his parents. And the moment he finds the connection with his father and grandfather is one of the most wholesome parts of the book. And even though I kept dreading how Thomas’ parents would react, the end was soothing. Sure, his mum’s reaction is open to interpretation, but his connection with his father tethers me. I’ve always had a suboptimal relationship with my mother and consequently, I feel more attached to my dad, thus, the reactions made me feel better.
I am waiting for the prints of the book to roll out so I can gift them to all my younger brothers and sisters. The book rolls out on April 15 (just putting it out there so you can pre-order.)
I would like to thank Carla for offering me an ARC of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Take it from someone who hasn’t switched genres in more than a few months, the book is going to make you feel a sense of satisfaction you’ve been craving for. The tagline does justice to the book, Terracolina is indeed a place to belong. As a debut writer, Carla has done an impeccable job of writing the book.
I loved all of the characters, and Nelrim was the most adorable of them all. I absolutely love Crax and hope that Geven can now take care of his own garden with Misty. And the nubbins, such cute little creatures. Honestly, despite being gross (as the characters suggested), I actually find the olgrots adorable too. I don’t think there’s a single character I could despise even if I tried my hardest.
I enjoyed Thomas’ adventure from the edge of my seat, though I would’ve killed to read more of his interactions with Merlin. I really liked Thomas and Misty, and can totally see them growing up to be the best of friends (though I’m not sure how much does ‘grow up’ apply to Misty given Geven’s age).
The best part about the ending was that despite his cravings to retreat to Terracolina (trust me, I wouldn’t have blamed him once if he went and hid there for a lifetime), Thomas stays for his parents. And the moment he finds the connection with his father and grandfather is one of the most wholesome parts of the book. And even though I kept dreading how Thomas’ parents would react, the end was soothing. Sure, his mum’s reaction is open to interpretation, but his connection with his father tethers me. I’ve always had a suboptimal relationship with my mother and consequently, I feel more attached to my dad, thus, the reactions made me feel better.
I am waiting for the prints of the book to roll out so I can gift them to all my younger brothers and sisters. The book rolls out on April 15 (just putting it out there so you can pre-order.)
I would like to thank Carla for offering me an ARC of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
June 17, 2023
Terracolina - A Place to Belong, penned by Carla Kessler, is a captivating tale of adventure, loss, and the power of one young boy's determination. Amidst a world oblivious to the impending destruction of a forest and a magical garden, Thomas Smithers emerges as an unexpected hero.
Haunted by the recent passing of his beloved grandpa, Thomas stumbles upon an old note that reveals a shared mission to protect their cherished forest from a ruthless parasite. Fueled by grief and a newfound sense of purpose, the twelve-year-old embarks on a journey to fulfill his grandpa's plans.
Within the forest, Thomas discovers a portal to a mesmerizing realm brimming with magic. As its inhabitants come under attack, Thomas finds himself thrust into a pivotal role, holding the key to their survival. However, torn between his loyalties and the weight of responsibility, he grapples with the question of whether his grandpa's intentions were woven into this mysterious world.
Carla Kessler skillfully weaves a narrative that enthralls readers, immersing them in Thomas's emotional journey. The author's vivid descriptions transport readers to the heart of the forest, evoking a sense of wonder and enchantment. Through Thomas's eyes, readers experience the bonds forged between worlds, the sacrifices made, and the challenges faced in order to safeguard what is treasured.
Terracolina - A Place to Belong explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the delicate balance between preservation and sacrifice. Carla Kessler deftly captures the spirit of adventure and the transformative power of youthful determination. With every page turned, readers will find themselves rooting for Thomas as he navigates his dual mission, grappling with the weight of his choices.
This captivating tale will captivate young readers and those young at heart alike. Terracolina - A Place to Belong is a testament to the importance of connection, environmental stewardship, and the extraordinary potential that lies within seemingly ordinary individuals. Prepare to be swept away on a thrilling journey where one boy's bravery and love for the natural world may just save both his cherished forest and a magical realm from certain peril.
Haunted by the recent passing of his beloved grandpa, Thomas stumbles upon an old note that reveals a shared mission to protect their cherished forest from a ruthless parasite. Fueled by grief and a newfound sense of purpose, the twelve-year-old embarks on a journey to fulfill his grandpa's plans.
Within the forest, Thomas discovers a portal to a mesmerizing realm brimming with magic. As its inhabitants come under attack, Thomas finds himself thrust into a pivotal role, holding the key to their survival. However, torn between his loyalties and the weight of responsibility, he grapples with the question of whether his grandpa's intentions were woven into this mysterious world.
Carla Kessler skillfully weaves a narrative that enthralls readers, immersing them in Thomas's emotional journey. The author's vivid descriptions transport readers to the heart of the forest, evoking a sense of wonder and enchantment. Through Thomas's eyes, readers experience the bonds forged between worlds, the sacrifices made, and the challenges faced in order to safeguard what is treasured.
Terracolina - A Place to Belong explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the delicate balance between preservation and sacrifice. Carla Kessler deftly captures the spirit of adventure and the transformative power of youthful determination. With every page turned, readers will find themselves rooting for Thomas as he navigates his dual mission, grappling with the weight of his choices.
This captivating tale will captivate young readers and those young at heart alike. Terracolina - A Place to Belong is a testament to the importance of connection, environmental stewardship, and the extraordinary potential that lies within seemingly ordinary individuals. Prepare to be swept away on a thrilling journey where one boy's bravery and love for the natural world may just save both his cherished forest and a magical realm from certain peril.
November 15, 2024
In Terracolina: A Place to Belong, Carla Kessler crafts a heartwarming and deeply emotional middle-grade fantasy about a boy named Thomas, who, on the edge of his twelfth birthday, is weighed down by the loss of his beloved Grandpa and the rigid expectations of his family. Before Grandpa passed, Thomas’ world sparkled with stories of a mystical place, filled with lush plants and fantastical creatures. Now, those magical tales feel like a distant memory, and Thomas’ life has become a gray routine of following rules. Determined to break free and find answers, he sets off and soon stumbles into the very world he thought only existed in dreams, where he learns he has a crucial role to play in protecting both worlds.
Kessler’s portrayal of grief in this story is nothing short of powerful. Thomas feels disconnected, battling sorrow that neither his family nor his friends seem to recognize. The emptiness he carries shapes every aspect of his world, creating a weight that many readers who’ve faced loss will recognize. I found myself deeply moved; the story felt like a mirror, reflecting experiences of complex grief that I hadn’t fully processed myself. Thomas’ journey to trust, to confront his pain, and to open his heart resonated with me profoundly. It felt like walking beside him, each step toward healing a reminder of the resilience that lives in us all.
This book’s magic doesn’t stop at its emotional depth. Despite its size, Terracolina is packed with wonder and unforgettable characters. Geven, the warm-hearted gardener, quickly became one of my all-time favorite fantasy characters, while Nib and Nob, the spirited Nubbins, brought a whimsical charm reminiscent of Wonderland. Misty, with her quiet insightfulness, rounded out a quirky and lovable cast that added life and color to Thomas’ adventure. Richard Kessler’s illustrations add extra vibrancy, capturing the beauty and personality of the Terracolina realm.
Terracolina: A Place to Belong is a moving and magical story of finding hope and purpose after loss. The book gently explores tough themes, including fantasy violence and mentions of death, making it a meaningful read for middle-grade readers and anyone looking for a story about courage, healing, and finding one’s place in the world.
Kessler’s portrayal of grief in this story is nothing short of powerful. Thomas feels disconnected, battling sorrow that neither his family nor his friends seem to recognize. The emptiness he carries shapes every aspect of his world, creating a weight that many readers who’ve faced loss will recognize. I found myself deeply moved; the story felt like a mirror, reflecting experiences of complex grief that I hadn’t fully processed myself. Thomas’ journey to trust, to confront his pain, and to open his heart resonated with me profoundly. It felt like walking beside him, each step toward healing a reminder of the resilience that lives in us all.
This book’s magic doesn’t stop at its emotional depth. Despite its size, Terracolina is packed with wonder and unforgettable characters. Geven, the warm-hearted gardener, quickly became one of my all-time favorite fantasy characters, while Nib and Nob, the spirited Nubbins, brought a whimsical charm reminiscent of Wonderland. Misty, with her quiet insightfulness, rounded out a quirky and lovable cast that added life and color to Thomas’ adventure. Richard Kessler’s illustrations add extra vibrancy, capturing the beauty and personality of the Terracolina realm.
Terracolina: A Place to Belong is a moving and magical story of finding hope and purpose after loss. The book gently explores tough themes, including fantasy violence and mentions of death, making it a meaningful read for middle-grade readers and anyone looking for a story about courage, healing, and finding one’s place in the world.
December 29, 2023
Breaking Rules and Finding Magic
“Terracolina: A Place to Belong" by Carla Kessler brilliantly unfolds the enchanting journey of 12-year-old Thomas, a spirited protagonist who rebels against conventional rules to explore the magical secrets of Terracolina. Thomas felt his home “was a tiresome place of routine and predictability. A place where he only belonged if he kept his place, and his future was on everyone else’s terms. A place where making a difference was only for adults.”
Kessler skillfully navigates the delicate balance between youthful curiosity and the constraints of authority, allowing Thomas to discover a hidden world beyond the confines of ordinary life. The heartwarming narrative is further enriched by Thomas's poignant connection with his late grandfather, adding a layer of depth to his rebellious spirit.
As Thomas ventures into the mystical garden, readers are treated to a tale that not only celebrates the vibrancy of youth but also explores the transformative power of breaking free from societal norms. "Terracolina" becomes a metaphor for the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to defy expectations, making Thomas's rebellious journey a captivating exploration of self-discovery and the magical allure of newfound worlds.
This reader was captivated by Carla Kessler’s enchanting narrative and illustrations that bring the magical world to life. The imaginative character names add an extra layer of charm to the story.
I highly recommend this book for all ages.
“Terracolina: A Place to Belong" by Carla Kessler brilliantly unfolds the enchanting journey of 12-year-old Thomas, a spirited protagonist who rebels against conventional rules to explore the magical secrets of Terracolina. Thomas felt his home “was a tiresome place of routine and predictability. A place where he only belonged if he kept his place, and his future was on everyone else’s terms. A place where making a difference was only for adults.”
Kessler skillfully navigates the delicate balance between youthful curiosity and the constraints of authority, allowing Thomas to discover a hidden world beyond the confines of ordinary life. The heartwarming narrative is further enriched by Thomas's poignant connection with his late grandfather, adding a layer of depth to his rebellious spirit.
As Thomas ventures into the mystical garden, readers are treated to a tale that not only celebrates the vibrancy of youth but also explores the transformative power of breaking free from societal norms. "Terracolina" becomes a metaphor for the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to defy expectations, making Thomas's rebellious journey a captivating exploration of self-discovery and the magical allure of newfound worlds.
This reader was captivated by Carla Kessler’s enchanting narrative and illustrations that bring the magical world to life. The imaginative character names add an extra layer of charm to the story.
I highly recommend this book for all ages.
January 11, 2024
With skill and flair, Carla Kessler crafts a story that captivates readers, drawing them into Thomas’s emotional journey. The author’s rich descriptions take readers to the core of the forest, stirring up feelings of awe and magic. Through Thomas’s eyes, readers witness the connections made across worlds, the costs paid, and the difficulties overcome to protect what is precious.
Kessler deftly handles the subtle tension between youthful curiosity and the limits of authority, enabling Thomas to uncover a secret world beyond the boundaries of normal life. The touching narrative is enhanced by Thomas’s moving bond with his deceased grandfather, giving more meaning to his defiant spirit.
Even as an adult I truly enjoyed this wondrous adventure that transports Thomas to a world of enchanting creatures and plants, and brought out the inner child in myself. With Thomas’s new friends by his side, he learns the importance of cooperation and starts to find his meaning. This is wonderful adventure that keeps you gripped. I think it is a great read for middle grade and above
Kessler deftly handles the subtle tension between youthful curiosity and the limits of authority, enabling Thomas to uncover a secret world beyond the boundaries of normal life. The touching narrative is enhanced by Thomas’s moving bond with his deceased grandfather, giving more meaning to his defiant spirit.
Even as an adult I truly enjoyed this wondrous adventure that transports Thomas to a world of enchanting creatures and plants, and brought out the inner child in myself. With Thomas’s new friends by his side, he learns the importance of cooperation and starts to find his meaning. This is wonderful adventure that keeps you gripped. I think it is a great read for middle grade and above
May 18, 2026
Terracolina: A Place to Belong by Carla Kessler is a beautifully crafted middle-grade fantasy that blends environmental awareness, emotional healing, and magical adventure into one unforgettable story. The novel immediately captures the reader with Thomas’s grief and loneliness after losing his grandfather, making his emotional journey feel deeply authentic and relatable. What makes this book especially remarkable is the way it transforms personal pain into wonder and purpose. The magical world of Terracolina is vividly imagined, filled with talking plants, telepathic creatures, and enchanting landscapes that feel alive on every page. Yet beneath the fantasy lies a meaningful message about belonging, courage, and protecting nature. Young readers will be fascinated by the adventure, while adults will appreciate the thoughtful themes woven throughout the story. This is a rare children’s novel that manages to be comforting, imaginative, and socially conscious all at once. An outstanding opening to a trilogy that promises even more magic ahead.
May 18, 2026
Terracolina: A Place to Belong is an exceptional middle-grade novel that stands out for its emotional depth and originality. Rather than relying solely on action and fantasy tropes, the story focuses on the emotional reality of a young boy searching for connection after devastating loss. Thomas is an incredibly sympathetic protagonist whose vulnerability and bravery make him easy to root for. The writing is immersive and poetic, especially in its descriptions of the forest and the magical realm hidden beyond it. The environmental themes are handled with care and intelligence, encouraging young readers to think about humanity’s relationship with nature without ever becoming preachy. The imaginative details from the thinking plants to the rhyming nymph-girl create a magical atmosphere that feels fresh and enchanting. This book has the rare ability to entertain while also inspiring reflection and empathy. It is perfect for readers who enjoy fantasy with heart, meaning, and a strong emotional core.
December 31, 2023
Wonderful fantasy adventure story. A fantastic adventure story with themes of family, friendship, nature, overcoming adversity and working through grief. It's a magical tale that starts off with a twelve-year-old boy who is struggling with the loss of his beloved grandfather and quickly becomes a through the looking glass story with fascinating characters, a mysterious spreading ooze that's destroying the beautiful land beyond the border of a walled ivy that leads to a secret world. Thomas is determined to save this world from destruction despite the personal peril it causes him. A truly delightful story, beautiful book cover, detailed colorful maps, and amazing illustrations throughout the book truly enhance the story and captivate the reader.
March 6, 2024
I loved this novel, which drew me into an amazing world. We meet Thomas who's grieving the loss of his grandpa and feeling all alone. So, he goes into the forest where they used to have all sorts of adventures. And that's where Thomas discovers a secret garden world in danger. He meets new friends and finds his purpose in saving this incredible place.
Kessler's storytelling is awesome. She brings the forest's inhabitants vividly to life. And the ending is so emotional, it's really touching. It inspires readers of all ages to cherish and protect the natural world around us. Terracolina is bursting with imagination and heart. It's the kind of magical story that reminds you that dreams can come true.
Kessler's storytelling is awesome. She brings the forest's inhabitants vividly to life. And the ending is so emotional, it's really touching. It inspires readers of all ages to cherish and protect the natural world around us. Terracolina is bursting with imagination and heart. It's the kind of magical story that reminds you that dreams can come true.
October 18, 2023
Fantastical!
A boy, grieving the loss of his grandfather and feeling as if he doesn’t belong anywhere, takes solace in the beloved forest where he often spent time with his late grandpa. Finding a grove of trees in danger, he vows to save them. This is only the beginning of a fantastical adventure that sweeps him away into a world of magical creatures and plant life. With the help of his new friends, he learns the value of teamwork and begins to discover his purpose. This is a grand adventure unlike anything that I’ve read before. I highly recommend it for middle grade and older readers.
A boy, grieving the loss of his grandfather and feeling as if he doesn’t belong anywhere, takes solace in the beloved forest where he often spent time with his late grandpa. Finding a grove of trees in danger, he vows to save them. This is only the beginning of a fantastical adventure that sweeps him away into a world of magical creatures and plant life. With the help of his new friends, he learns the value of teamwork and begins to discover his purpose. This is a grand adventure unlike anything that I’ve read before. I highly recommend it for middle grade and older readers.
January 2, 2024
The Garden is dying....
Middle school is the time we move away from imaginary friends to real ones. Imagine Thomas's surprise when he discovers his grandfather's imaginary garden is not only real, but it's in danger. And the gardener needs his help. The author blends fantasy and science in a fascinating tale filled with unique characters. My grandchildren were glued to the story, asking questions the entire time. Now, they are ready to plant their own garden and learn more about how they can help. They are already asking about the next book.
Middle school is the time we move away from imaginary friends to real ones. Imagine Thomas's surprise when he discovers his grandfather's imaginary garden is not only real, but it's in danger. And the gardener needs his help. The author blends fantasy and science in a fascinating tale filled with unique characters. My grandchildren were glued to the story, asking questions the entire time. Now, they are ready to plant their own garden and learn more about how they can help. They are already asking about the next book.
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March 16, 2024We all want to please those who we’ve lost.
Thomas took time to heal after he lost his wonderful grandpa, but the now twelve-year-old child ventured into the forest his grandpa loved. This heartwarming, highly imaginative story will entertain children for hours as they read it again and again. Along with Thomas, they will see a dying forest Thomas tries to save. The illustrations are excellent; the story is unique, and the forest comes to life as Thomas learns that working together is better than working alone.
Thomas took time to heal after he lost his wonderful grandpa, but the now twelve-year-old child ventured into the forest his grandpa loved. This heartwarming, highly imaginative story will entertain children for hours as they read it again and again. Along with Thomas, they will see a dying forest Thomas tries to save. The illustrations are excellent; the story is unique, and the forest comes to life as Thomas learns that working together is better than working alone.
May 15, 2026
Terracolina: A Place to Belong is exactly the kind of book I love recommending to reluctant readers. Thomas's grief over losing his grandfather is rendered with quiet honesty, and his journey into the magical world beneath the forest never feels like an escape from that pain it deepens it in the most beautiful way. The talking plants and telepathic creatures are inventive without being overwhelming, and the environmental underpinnings give the story genuine stakes. I've already had three students come back asking for book two. A well-deserved award winner.
March 28, 2024
Interesting and magical
This book is a great way to teach children about plants, bringing them into the story and then giving sweet illustrations was great.
The forest is dying while Thomas mourns the death of his grandfather, who had instilled a love of plants into the 12 year old.
Can Thomas save the trees from dying?
With charming mystical characters, this is a unique fantasy for children.
This book is a great way to teach children about plants, bringing them into the story and then giving sweet illustrations was great.
The forest is dying while Thomas mourns the death of his grandfather, who had instilled a love of plants into the 12 year old.
Can Thomas save the trees from dying?
With charming mystical characters, this is a unique fantasy for children.
January 6, 2025
This fantasy adventure, supported by wonderful illustrations is sure to intrigue young and old alike. Feeling misunderstood by his parents, Thomas discovers Terracolina. Helping fantastical creatures protect their hidden world gives the teen purpose. Using clever poetic phrases, the inhabitants of this hidden world teach the importance of protecting natural resources before it’s too late. Highly recommend!
December 9, 2023
A charming fantasy about Thomas, a quirky young boy who stumbles into a magical world known to the grandfather he’s been grieving. But the hidden forest is under attack and Thomas embarks on his own crusade to save this world from a relentless parasite. Thomas’ emotional journey is the core but the unique world is captivating. The writing is excellent.
December 26, 2023
reminiscent of Fablehaven
A magical story about a boy, and his magical relationship with his beloved late grandfather’s garden. And I do mean magical! Reminded me a little of Fablehaven, but more plant-based. I really enjoyed the read and recommend it for anyone who enjoys fantasy.
A magical story about a boy, and his magical relationship with his beloved late grandfather’s garden. And I do mean magical! Reminded me a little of Fablehaven, but more plant-based. I really enjoyed the read and recommend it for anyone who enjoys fantasy.
April 5, 2024
Saving the trees.
I like a book that begins with a good map or maps in this case. Nice line “they were both geeks.”
I can see why the book would have huge appeal to children with its array of interesting characters and a lead character full of courage who doesn’t forgets where he came from.
I like a book that begins with a good map or maps in this case. Nice line “they were both geeks.”
I can see why the book would have huge appeal to children with its array of interesting characters and a lead character full of courage who doesn’t forgets where he came from.
July 25, 2023
A green adventure
Lovely read. Reminded me of Tom Bambodil from LotR in parts.
Some great descriptive nature writing. Sad in parts too with Thomas’s relationship with his parents.
A recommended read for kids who like to adventure in the woods and use their imagination.
Lovely read. Reminded me of Tom Bambodil from LotR in parts.
Some great descriptive nature writing. Sad in parts too with Thomas’s relationship with his parents.
A recommended read for kids who like to adventure in the woods and use their imagination.
January 6, 2024
a great book to read together with a youngish one
a great book to read together with a youngish one!
Me and my little brother loved the wonder of the world and the pacing of the easy to read youthful Novella!
I feel almost young again
a great book to read together with a youngish one!
Me and my little brother loved the wonder of the world and the pacing of the easy to read youthful Novella!
I feel almost young again
January 13, 2024
This is an interesting book. It's about a boy grieving at the loss of his grandfather. He spends most of his time in a beloved forest. It is a fantasy adventure that includes magical creatures and plants. He finds himself having to save the beloved forest. It's a great book to read.
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January 14, 2024Magical Garden
This book is about Thomas and his grandfather’s magical garden. Thomas helps to save the garden from danger. This is a great book full of imagination, magic, and nature. Great read.
This book is about Thomas and his grandfather’s magical garden. Thomas helps to save the garden from danger. This is a great book full of imagination, magic, and nature. Great read.
March 6, 2024
Adventurous
A nice coming of age story about a bou, mourning the death of his grandfather. He discovered a different garden with different creatures to what he is used to, just like his grandfather's stories. Good book!
A nice coming of age story about a bou, mourning the death of his grandfather. He discovered a different garden with different creatures to what he is used to, just like his grandfather's stories. Good book!
March 17, 2024
how cute
What a sweet story! This was so much fun.
I enjoyed this authors writing style and storytelling ability. Not something you see a lot. Definitely for younger readers, but still fun for adults. Highly recommended
What a sweet story! This was so much fun.
I enjoyed this authors writing style and storytelling ability. Not something you see a lot. Definitely for younger readers, but still fun for adults. Highly recommended
March 27, 2024
Wow! What a great tale!Wow! What a great tale!
Not only was this a wonderful and unique story, but the writing was amazing! I couldn't put it down, and for the first time in many years I didn't want it to end!
Not only was this a wonderful and unique story, but the writing was amazing! I couldn't put it down, and for the first time in many years I didn't want it to end!
June 24, 2024
An enchanting and magical middle grade story with strong messages about the environment and responsibility. Even as an adult reader I was charmed by this book and look forward to reading more about Thomas and Terracolina.
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