When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales is a fun retelling of classic fairy tales. This is my first book by this author, and I was not disappointed. She has created a fairy tale museum and tells well-known stories in new ways. Using fantasy, paranormal, romance, and more, the stories come to life. I also enjoyed that each story read quickly so I could catch one while waiting for meetings and other inconveniences that daily life brings. YA fans and older could enjoy the stories. The author really put effort into reworking the stories so they have their own life instead of being a standard retelling. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sheri Schraderhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSheri Schrader2023-07-31 19:16:422023-08-04 11:56:51When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve – Review by Sheri Schrader
A girl in Nee Mexico steals a magical artifact. A man in the Rocky Mountains studies a girl in the wild. A raging storm wakes a boy. What do they have in common?
Fairy tales are everywhere and are constantly being altered to match the modern world. Watch closely because you never know what fairytale you might find yourself in.
“When Magic Calls” was far from what I was expecting, but in a good way. I love a fairytale retelling, but this took telling tales to a whole new level. It was a magical twist and turn in directions I never would’ve predicted with each story told.
This collection of fairytales is different than the usual tales we hear and was truly engaging and magical. You won’t want to miss it!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tia Martelhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTia Martel2023-07-30 21:08:442023-08-04 11:48:14When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve – Review by Tia Martel
I read this book in one sitting and I imagine many others will as well.
We meet Russell right away. He’s in the 5th grade, and well, it’s just not his year. So many changes have occurred over the past year that it’s really affected his performance in school. Grandpa moved in, resulting in his room to change, his dad starting drinking more, and Tyler became a bully. That’s a bit much for a young man to have to take on.
Grandpa loves going to the carousel everyday, much to Russell’s chagrin. One day, that all changes for both Rusty and Grandpa though. Things will never be the same again…and that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
This book is pretty deep and one that teenagers could likely relate to. There are some intense topics covered and there are ways to help those issues throughout the story. I’ll also admit, I cried at the end!!! Have a box of tissues handy if you’re soft hearted!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2023-07-30 20:23:432023-08-04 11:47:39The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Julie Johnson
This was a very unique and enjoyable collection of fairy tales for adults. The author was extremely vivid in her characters and you definitely could feel the magic within! Some of the stories I couldn’t quite place how they related to other fairy tales, but it did not make them less enjoyable. My absolutely favorites were, “Letters from a Wu”, “Borrowed Skin, Borrowed Year”, “A Love to Sleep for”, and “Bones of the Soul.” This was definitely a wonderful collection and I greatly enjoyed all of the stories. If you are a lover of fairy tales, this is a diverse collection of magical tales.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Haller-Dorishttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Haller-Doris2023-07-30 20:19:512023-08-04 11:42:28When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris
I was initially drawn to this novel because of the title, I am, and always have been a massive nerd. I was playing D&D 5e before it was fully published and was still being called D&D Next. So when I saw a novel referring to oathbreaker paladins, I was immediately intrigued. The author did not disappoint, the main character was a half-orc paladin who called his club a ‘Smite Stick’. The novel kicks off with Marluck, the main character, losing his paladin powers and falling into a depressive spiral. Marluck ends up joining an AA style group called Oathbreakers Anonymous, and going on a quest with an eclectic group to try to regain their powers, in a scene that has fond echoes of LotR.
Once the plot kicks off, things happen at a breakneck pace. Which, while a good thing, is almost too much. We aren’t given any time to process what just happened before we are once again onto the next leg of the quest. That is honestly my only real issue though, the author did a wonderful job, made me like the characters, and made me laugh many, many times with all of their jokes and nerdy humour. It was very obvious that the author is knowledgeable of pop culture, the nerdier the better. You could tell immediately just from the references and jokes that made it into the novel, I even got introduced to my new favourite deity, Chocklar the god of hangry snacking. Chocklar will be a part of my D&D campaigns going forward for sure!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Santana Hickshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSantana Hicks2023-07-30 16:54:152023-08-04 11:37:33Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren – Review by Santana Hicks
This book takes us back to the world of Arcelia and Rodrick, as they go through their adult life and manage their relationship with the politics of their families. I very much enjoyed this book, it was a quick read that I disappeared into after a day out on the river. With the way it ended, it wouldn’t surprise me if it was a final book in the series, but I would like to see another book pop up. Overall, a good book and a good series to try out!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lucy Machardhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLucy Machard2023-07-29 23:07:332023-08-04 11:41:07The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Lucy Machard
I definitely liked this book a lot better than the sequel in the series. I really enjoyed how it followed a different character, and the book definitely kept me engaged. Sometimes I feel like I get slammed with character after character, and I feel like there could be more to the story, just a couple more details here and there. The plot was a fantastic plot, and it I enjoy seeing the writer grow as the series grows. Catch you at book four!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lucy Machardhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLucy Machard2023-07-29 23:04:562023-08-04 11:40:53The Lone Star Child (The Gods’ Scion Book 3) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Lucy Machard
The book seemed to drag on a little bit through the beginning and middle. It goes over a lot of politics for a good half of the book, which does tie in to the plot, but also can be a bit tedious. After the first books ending with Roderick and Arcelia, I was expecting a bit more romance, but of course nothing comes as easy as we think with books. I do enjoy the plot the author gives out, but the writing style can be a bit confusing. There’s a lot of POV jumps from character to character, and half the time I didn’t know what character was telling the story until about halfway through it. Make sure you’re reading the series in order, since the first book goes over the lore and background of the world and society set up. Over all, a book I did like, and I’m curious to see what the author does next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lucy Machardhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLucy Machard2023-07-29 23:00:502023-08-04 11:40:46Descendants of Time and Death (The Gods’ Scion Book 2) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Lucy Machard
This is the fourth in the Gods’ Scion series and I highly recommend reading the previous books before reading this one. By doing so, you’ll have a clearer picture on what had happened previously, the current struggle faced, and the characters involved.
Once again, I applaud the author’s world building and ability to paint a vivid picture of the scenery with words. The characters are well-constructed and have you rooting for them beginning to end and feeling their emotions alongside them.
There are more secrets and lies to be uncovered in this book and the twists leave you unsettled and asking who can be trusted.
I enjoy this series and how there are unique aspects to each, you just can’t get bored reading these books.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-07-29 18:43:332023-08-04 11:38:47The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the third book in the Gods’ Scion series. I would highly recommend reading the first two books before this one for a better understanding of events, the world and characters.
Once again, the world building in this series grabs my attention almost immediately. It’s strong and links together between the books beautifully. The author also does a great job in painting vivid imagery to bring it to life for the readers.
The plot is gripping, and I was intrigued. It’s unique and enjoyable full of lies and adventure for the characters to discover as the story unfolds. Another aspect which stood out to me is the emotion that the author includes. Not only is it clear what the characters are feeling, but the emotion leaks out through the pages, and you almost feel them as your own.
I have been enjoying this series and look forward to more.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-07-29 18:14:582023-08-04 11:35:12The Lone Star Child (The Gods’ Scion Book 3) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This was a really good YA fantasy to fill my downtime with. I’ve read other books by this author and always seem to enjoy myself, so I didn’t hesitate to pick this one up. I liked the relatable characters and the detail throughout this story. I would recommend picking up the previous books in the series as they build upon each other, and you risk not fully capturing the essence of the book without them. The author expertly crafts a world that is full of secrets and seems to expand with each chapter. The flow of the story felt a little odd at times and it snapped me out of the adventure a bit, but overall, I really enjoyed myself. I plan on following this author’s work in the future!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shannen Kernhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShannen Kern2023-07-29 16:36:232023-08-04 11:34:38The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Shannen Kern
This was another book to this series. Highly suggest that you read the other books in the series before diving into this one. This book had me from the beginning once again, I couldn’t read it fast enough to find out everything that was going on in it. This book was very well written that it makes you feel like your right there with the characters of Arcelia and Prince Rodrick. the love between these two almost feels like your eves dropping on then and you really shouldn’t be, but it really makes you love and care for each one of the characters in their own way. This book had some twist and turns that were unexpected but amazing and really kept me reading more. It is high paced but filled with so much from love, romance, secrets, lies, mystery, suspense, action.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Reimerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Reimer2023-07-29 14:57:232023-08-04 11:33:03The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Jennifer Reimer
Anticipating Book # 4 of this series…this story continues to bring me intrigue, adventure, secrets, love and family. I had to really pay attention a bit as the change of the chapters of whom was “speaking” but I quickly caught on and I thoroughly enjoyed this book so much.
Picking up with Arcelia and Prince Rodrick ….Arcelia is trying to prove she is with Prince Rodrick for love and not for power as Prince Rodrick’s mother believes this may be. Arcelia heads to underground city of Siesa Arid…. where her family, twin cousins, resides. In light, Arcelia is trying to find out if her mother is behind some devious crime. Will Arcelia find out any truths or be encircled with more lies? Will Prince Rodrick be there for Arcelia, especially with danger around?
This is a very good fantasy story that really leaves you wanting more. I am so looking forward to seeing what is in store to come from this author!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lorralei Hoernerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLorralei Hoerner2023-07-29 14:54:192023-08-04 11:32:54The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Lorralei Hoerner
Descendants of Time and Death (The Gods; Scion Book 2): This is the second book in the series and I suggest reading them in order as the story will make more sense that way. This is another wonderfully written piece of fantasy that I highly recommend taking the time to read! An entire year has passed since the Demon King Ryton’s reign has finished. Every turn and every corner, more threats are coming, and a war is on the horizon. Roderick and his brother Rayden are fighting to stop the upcoming war, along side Arcelia and her mother Riva. This amazing book is full of twists, turns, spirals, family secrets, and so so much more. This is another book that is beautifully written and I highly recommend taking the time to read!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michaelahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichaela2023-07-29 14:33:312023-08-04 11:32:44Descendants of Time and Death (The Gods’ Scion Book 2) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by
Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods; Scion Book 4): This is the fourth book in the series and I suggest reading them in order as the story will make more sense that way. This is another wonderfully written piece of fantasy that I highly recommend taking the time to read! In this installment, Arcelia finds herself navigating the desert and the City of Siesa Arid. She travels with Prince Rodrick and some of her family hopeful to find a semblance of peace and family unity once they reach the city. While threats follow them every step of the way, their story takes even more twists and turns as the story progresses. This is another book that is beautifully written and I highly recommend taking the time to read!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michaelahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichaela2023-07-29 14:03:272023-08-03 15:10:24The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Michaela Massie
When Magic Calls by Caitlin Berve- 4 out of 5 stars
Interesting take on Fairy Tales. The author gives these tales a magical twist intermixed with some darkness. I love how you can pick this book up, read one short story, and put it back down without feeling like you are left on a cliff. Each story is uniquely written and enjoyable, even for adult readers. This authors idea of a Fairy Tale museum is definitely unique. I recommend this book if you like quick reads.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elisha Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElisha Johnson2023-07-29 09:47:542023-08-03 15:08:02When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve – Review by Elisha Johnson
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61365636-the-sisterhood-of-secrets” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”The Sisterhood of Secrets” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1656693689l/61365636._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61365636-the-sisterhood-of-secrets”>The Sisterhood of Secrets</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18814984.Winnifred_Tataw”>Winnifred Tataw</a><br/> My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5728430818″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> This is the 4th book within the series, so definitely should read previous books to be able to follow along better.<br />The story is based upon a duchess who is struggling with her family due to her live interest. He is a prince but also an acolyte. There has been lies spread throughout. But can they get through all the hard times and make their love work? I definitely am going to go and read the rest of this series! <br/><br/> <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/6813301-tori”>View all my reviews</a>
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Torimittonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTorimitton2023-07-29 09:01:262023-08-03 15:07:40The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by
The Magic Carousel is the first book in The Brass Ring Series by K.L. Small. It is a wonderful children’s chapter book- a fun fantasy adventure with action, carousel, horses, a brass ring, magic, time travel, history, challenges, imagination, drama, and learning. The story is quite captivating with lovely illustrations sprinkled throughout, which really help to bring the story to life. I liked the notes provided for each chapter which was provided at the end of the book as they added extra insight and information that enhanced my appreciation of the adventure. There is also a helpful glossary of words at the end of the book. Another fun read from this talented author. A story for the young- and the young at heart. And… Can we take a moment to appreciate the fabulous cover! Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2023-07-29 06:31:562023-08-03 15:06:24The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book #1) by K.L. Small – Review by Angela Hayes
The Sisterhood of Secrets was another great book in this series. If you would like to follow along with the storyline better, I suggest reading the other books first. The world building and characters was well thought out. Two of the characters fell in love, which wasn’t allowed. They had to fight for their long along with everything else. This book was a page turner for me. It had me wanting to know what happened next in it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Melissa Finkhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMelissa Fink2023-07-28 18:30:322023-08-03 14:26:32The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Melissa Fink
What a fun book! Even as an adult, this was a great book of adventures I would be more than thrilled to go on. I also don’t care how old I get, the carousel will always be a fun ride. There are so many subjects touched upon in this book, that I think is very good for pre teens to learn about. Bullying, trouble with family members, health issues, etc. Each subject was nicely worked into the story and I was so pleased with the outcome involving Rusty’s grandfather, his dad and his friendship with Tyler. The end of the book has a list of different things mentioned in the book and their definitions or their explanations, which is a wonderful learning tool.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Carrie Reedhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCarrie Reed2023-07-28 14:27:312023-07-28 14:27:31The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Carrie Reed
The Sisterhood of Secrets The Gods’ Scion book 4 By: Winnifred Tataw Review by: Susan Ratchford 5 stars
As always Ms. Tataw continues with gorgeous detail and a wonderful story in her fourth installment of The Gods’ Scion series! As a whole this series continues to be unique and ethereal! It is one of my new favorites! The Sisterhood of Secrets as well as her previous installments have a really nice flow and tone that keeps you glued to the pages! I couldn’t flip them fast enough! The Gods’ Scion series is a wonderful read when you feel like you need an escape for a while. It completely transports you and it’s so easy to get lost in the story! Everything is so thorough, from the fashion to the culture and rituals Ms. Tataw truly thought of everything! Highly recommend this book and series to any supernatural or fantasy lover! You will not be disappointed!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Susan Ratchfordhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSusan Ratchford2023-07-28 00:30:232023-08-03 14:25:24The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Susan Ratchford
Descendants of Time and Death The Gods’ Scion Book 2 By: Winnifred Tataw Review by: Susan Ratchford 5 Stars
I have absolutely fallen for this series! The relationship between Arcelia and Rodrick gave me butterflies that continue with each book! Every installment truly just keeps getting better and better! Tataw creates beautiful and vivid imagery filled with castles and gardens that make you feel like you are actually there. With all the supernatural and fantasy aspects this book was already right up my alley but Ms. Tataw takes it one step further and creates an amazing world with so much detail! I enjoy the names she comes up with like “Street Crawlers” and “Mohidens”. It really keeps you reading because it is so engaging! Descendants of Time and Death is also filled with secrets and adventure as well as some amazing character development! I can’t wait to continue this gripping series! I highly recommend this book and The Gods’ Scion series to anyone looking for a great fantasy series to sink their teeth into!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Susan Ratchfordhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSusan Ratchford2023-07-28 00:22:382023-08-03 14:25:18Descendants of Time and Death (The Gods’ Scion Book 2) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Susan Ratchford
On the surface, Maldarehm was the perfect place to re-supply after a lengthy voyage at sea. Yet underneath this port city’s vibrant, bustling atmosphere, something was wrong. Ian Troy could feel it. After barely escaping the Wandering Isles, he was reluctant to go ashore. Ian was content with a slow, solitary ride along the coast.
Jarryd Kane, however, was anxious to explore a new land, especially one known as a haven for pirates. In the mood for adventure, he heads straight to Providence, the city’s infamous gambling house, and to a game with stakes unlike any other.
Two different paths lead both men to the same dangerous outcome, as Ian and Jarryd are caught in a brutal local tradition rooted in ancient beliefs and fueled by magic. Risk and sacrifice, death and reward—fortune and misfortune—ride on little more than a roll of the dice in Maldarehm. But what do you expect when you’re playing with gods?
Fortune’s Favorite is Book 2 in the Soulbound Journeys Series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/CL-SCHNEIDER-FORTUNES-PREORDER.jpg750750itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-07-28 00:01:192023-08-15 18:49:01🔳 *¨*✶*¨`*🔳 PREORDER 🔳 *¨*✶*¨`*🔳 Fortune’s Favorite (Soulbound Journeys Book 2) by C. L. Schneider
This book is a brilliant start to a new series for pre-teens. It is fun, interesting and written in a way that will really grab their attention. This is such a heart warming story about a young boy and his grandad. The connection that builds between them as the book goes on is lovely to see. This book is one of those that is engaging to both kids and adults. I read this to my daughter and it is one we both fully enjoyed. This was a new author for us and it won’t be the first book that we read from them. This is a great book and we are all looking forward to book 2.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2023-07-27 16:10:532023-08-03 14:23:41The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Kerry Baker
The Magic Carousel is Book One in The Brass Ring Series. It is a Kids Fantasy book designed for children ages nine to twelve years of age. This book was very entertaining and would be a good read for anyone that considers themselves to be young at heart. The story centers around the character of Russell who has dreamed of becoming a firefighter when he grows up, but he feels like he will never be brave enough. Ever since his seventh birthday his young life seems to be going downhill and he feels like a failure. Russell is failing fifth grade, his dad is a drunk, his mom works all the time, and he is being bullied by someone who used to be his best friend. When Russell’s grandfather moved in not only did he lose his room but he was moved into the cold, damp, smelly basement.
Now Russell is expected to take his grandfather to the park everyday after school so that his grandfather can ride the carousel. He loves his grandfather and enjoys hearing stories of his wild adventures but is afraid he will be bullied farther if someone sees him at the park. When Russell reluctantly agrees to ride the carousel with his grandfather everything changes, and he realizes that his grandfather’s tall tales are actually true. With the help of a bit of magic he sets off on a series of adventures on the carousel that transport him back in time. During each adventure he sees new places, learns new things, and eventually learns how to be brave.
I absolutely loved this book and cannot wait to read more in this series! The storyline was riveting, the settings throughout were spectacular, and the characters were relatable and lovable. I loved watching the transformation of Russell as he grew and learned how to be brave. Through a series of terrifying near-death experiences, he was able to overcome his fears. The horses and secondary characters all played a part in how Russell was able to push through his fears and face them head on. Now I want my own magic carousel so I can be transported through time and go on exciting new adventures. I highly recommend this book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-07-27 15:03:512023-08-03 14:23:19The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Reminiscent of the popular Magic Tree House series, I enjoyed the time traveling historical fiction book The Magic Carousel even better. Kept my interest as well, because you never knew which chapter would land you on which year or story, and I could see kids looking up even more about a favorite story (as a side note, I would have liked to know about the historical notes for each chapter/adventure- I did the ebook and didn’t think to flip to the end).
Loved how the storyline was unique and you grew to love the characters and the bond between grandparent and grandchild. The problems he encounters children (and adults) can relate to. Unlike the previously mentioned series that oftentimes seems flat (let’s go to the Middle Ages…. with not much story line), this reads like a novel/story. I can’t wait to see the series continue.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Crainhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Crain2023-07-27 14:16:582023-08-03 14:23:02The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Jennifer Crain
Delightful, magical read A great fantasy read for young and old, this brilliantly written book has a unique storyline. The author weaves a story filled with imagery and quirky characters that keeps the reader engaged right through until the end. With an easy to relate to MC and nostalgia of the carousel ride, this story would appeal to a wide audience. Highly recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rayne Easthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRayne East2023-07-27 06:52:022023-08-03 14:17:28The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Rayne East
The Magic Carousel is the unique award-winning first book in this series the Brass Ring. It is an adventure story for tweens between 8 – 12 years old but will capture the heart of anyone. Rusty soon learns there is more to the crazy old man he calls Grandpa, and his adventure begins. Time travel, a brass ring, magical powers, a gateway to magic are what you will find in this magical adventure fantasy. There is fun, heartache, drama, tragedy, bullying and much more. The characters are relatable with the story is told in the first-person. The Magic Carousel is an exciting educational history lesson. It is original and imaginative and an action-packed wild adventure where a young boy Rusty learns true courage and bravery. I wonder what new adventure will come next for Rusty.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2023-07-27 06:34:022023-08-03 12:28:48The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Jenni Bishop
What a fun story. Russell has to take his grandfather to the carousel at the park every day. The same routine…. One day, his grandfather opens an adventure and the fun starts there. This is an amazing history adventure that brings stories to life. Each chapter is a history lesson brought to life. A fun chapter book that will be a great addition to any child’s library. I will be adding it to our homeschool library.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2023-07-27 06:24:312023-08-03 12:15:54The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Shelly Kittell
When Russell’s eccentric, storytelling grandpa moves in with the family, Russell loses his bedroom and has to take Grandpa to the carousel in the park every day. As if he doesn’t have enough to deal with already. He’s flunking fifth grade, bullied at school, and his dad’s drinking has made him feel like a failure. Russell dreams of being a firefighter but fears he isn’t courageous enough.
Then Russell rides a carousel horse with Grandpa. Thanks to a magic brass ring, he finds himself magically transported into the past, where he faces life-and-death challenges. Each ride is a new, risky adventure. If he’s not careful, he could be trapped in one of his wild adventures forever!
This is the award-winning first story in the Brass Ring Series.
L. Small is the author of fantasy stories for the young and the young at heart, including A Dress To Remember: A Fairy Tale, the Brass Ring fantasy novels for young readers, and the Strand trilogy for young adults. She was born in Queens, New York, the oldest of nine children.
She was an avid reader as a child, and her father often told her “to get your nose out of that book and go outside.” While she did go outside, she never lost her love of reading, especially horse stories and fantasy novels. Some of her treasured possessions are several much-loved books by Marguerite Henry. She has taken one of the books, Five O’clock Charlie, into classrooms for the Great American Teach-In and shared the story with children, along with the letter she received from Ms. Henry in response to her fan letter to the author.
She attended Binghamton University, starting as a Creative Writing major. After earning a master’s degree from Syracuse University, she spent her professional career in the electric utility business in a variety of roles, ranging from environmental work, community relations, communication, and change management.
Her childhood dream was to own a horse and be an author. She is living her dream in Brooksville, Florida, with her husband, Rick, on a ranch called Carousel Acres. They own two horses: an off-the-track Thoroughbred named Rory and an American mustang called Skylark. They share the barn with three cats named after the Golden Girls: Blanche, Dorothy, and Rose. A fourth cat, Stan, has decided to join the barn crew.
You can learn more about K. L. Small and her current writing projects by subscribing to her newsletter here.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Magic-Carousel_5-x-8-in-EBook.jpg1200752itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-07-27 00:04:532023-11-28 12:02:26The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small
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