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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Heidi Sturgess

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I just want a Grandpa with a magical brass ring and I want to go on a carousel 😍

I’m blessed to be a librarian at a local school and my visitors are aged between 6-14 years of age so what kids have to deal with isn’t unknown to me ( I’m also a mum of 3) and I’ve a few that come to visit my place of safety just to escape , read, colour or build puzzle and with all these different little personalities this read became so real to me on many levels as I could see some of my little friends in this stunning read ❣️📚

I just love Russell’s grandpa and I’ve created a picture in my mind of what he looks like and obviously the kids know I’m reading and they want constant updates and what fun it’s like we’re living the story together in between classes and break times ❣️

My heart broke when grandpa took ill but at the same time it was Russell’s time to be bold and brave and this is where he grows and my mommy heart swells with pride but my childlike side is so envious !

I actually want to get a little toy carousel to put in the library and when kids ask I can share this story as inspiration for them ! I just adored this read !

 

The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Jo Wright

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

OMG OMG OMG! I would like to see this as a movie! I think that this is extremely well-written! I absolutely love the character development and the way Rusty becomes a stronger, happier, and more confident boy because of his adventures. I absolutely want my second grader to read this book because I am truly thrilled about the message of the story!

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@jowright

The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Whisper Hymer

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small is the first book in the Brass Ring series. It follows 10 year old Russell as he learns the secrets of the brass ring and the magic carousel horses. He also learns to find lessons and adventures in the not-so-silly stories told by his grandfather. Along the way, Russell learns about himself and his own strengths. This is a great young-adult/coming-of-age story to share with kids as Russell deals with big feelings, bullying, and family.

Reviewed by @WhisperHymer

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Brandy Rymer

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Magic Carousel was a great read, full of imaginative adventures with Rusty and his grandpa. I loved how in-depth the descriptions of each carousel horse were, and the beauty that was found in such creatures that showed years of wear and tear. Rusty could enjoy the love that all of the younger children felt in seeing within each of the horses’ inner beauty and not the chips and wear and tear that showed the extent of years of bringing joy to young and old. I love that each horse had a different tale for Rusty to live through, which brought him closer to his grandpa, who loved him so dearly. This was such a great story teaching us to appreciate the joy of our youth and to hold those we cherish close to our hearts. What a beautiful story that helps to unlock our imaginations and live the thrill of the ride of such amazing horses on the carousel. If you are looking for a book that has wonderful images, life lessons, and heartfelt fun, then look no further, this is the book for you, it has everything!
@Brandy Rymer
08/2023

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Kelli Harper

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

WONDERFUL!!! This book is full of detail and it will take you through so much in Russel’s life. While this story is geared towards kids, I (being almost 50) was drawn in and captivated by the details and the adventures. What a wonderful way to spend time with your Grandfather. Wonderful book that will hopefully be enjoyed by many!

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

This was a fantastic story and I just loved the overall feeling of magic, family, imagination and life lessons. The story is geared from ages 9-12 but truly this story can be enjoyed for the young and the young at heart (like me). I am already eagerly waiting for more in The Brass Ring series. Highly recommend read and just overall wonderful story.

Russell is trying to survive 5th grade so he can make it to middle school. With his grandfather living with the family, an unruly bully on his heels and some family drama….all Russell wants is to grown up and become a firefighter. When a daily outing with his grandfather to the local carousel takes Russell and his grandfather on a magical journey, Russell learns new challenges may make or break from him wanting to become the firefighter he wants one day.

As each journey on the Magic Carousel embarks on just a new adventure for Russell, he will learn not only to be brave when he thinks he cannot but to also make his grandfather happy.

Magical wonderful story……..I cannot wait to see where the Magic Carousel takes me next.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Jennifer Ramos

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a wonderful story and start to this series! This is the second time I’ve read from this author and just loved this one as well! These books are great for those older elementary and middle school age groups and love when their imagination takes over! This book is also great to read out loud or for bedtime reading with your imaginative youngins.
The main character Russell has been going down a downward spiral as far as bad grades and bullies from school but the one thing that remains consistent is him taking his grandfather to the carousel everyday after school, his grandpa’s favorite spot. What Russell ends up finding out is the magic brass ring that belongs to his grandpa unlocks the magic within through a time travel adventure. Through this adventure that Russell embarks, he becomes a stronger person to conquer those areas in which he feels weak and defeated. Read this book with your kids and you get to go on the adventure as well! Can’t wait to read the others in this series!

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Nina Maes

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Great Story! An adventure awaits, strong characters and great storyline. This author will draw you in and keep you going to the end, painting you a vivid picture in your mind. Fast paced, I enjoyed this book thoroughly. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves to read.

The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great Story! An adventure awaits, strong characters and great storyline. This author will draw you in and keep you going to the end, painting you a vivid picture in your mind. Fast paced, I enjoyed this book thoroughly. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves to read.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Shannen Kern

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I know this was aimed at an audience way younger than me, but I thoroughly enjoyed it! Both of my kids (ages 7 and 11) absolutely adored this book, and it really started some good conversation in our family as well. This author is new to me, so I was pleased to find that they wrote a captivating tale of time-travel and family. We are eagerly looking forward to the second book in this series because we couldn’t get enough! I highly recommend picking this heart-felt, adventurous tale and sharing it with the kids (or just young-at-heart) in your life!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Ashley Sugar

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow what a magical and phenomenal read! It’s for a younger audience but my goodness, I’m so glad I decided to read this. Fantastic characters and it sincerely captured my heart. It was such a magical adventure that I never wanted it to end. If you want a book full of adventure, magic, challenges, emotion, bravery and courage…please read this! You will not want to put it down.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Jamie Truex

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book I’ve read by K. L. Small. I was intrigued by the title and the cover photo. I got hooked from the beginning. Russell is very relatable, especially to kids at the preteen age. He doesn’t want to be responsible for his grandpa! He’s got his own issues to deal with, like an old friend turned bully and his slipping grades. This book took me on adventures right along side Russell and his grandpa. I would recommend this book for many age levels and to be read to a younger group. I look forward to reading more books from this author.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Santana Hicks

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Russell feels like a failure in everything to do with his life. He is flunking school, being bullied by his old best friend and his own alcoholic father. His dream is to be a firefighter when he grows up but he knows he’s too weak and not brave enough to actually be one. On top of all that, his grandfather moved in and stole his bedroom. Russell’s mother works full time so it’s on Russell to take his grandfather to the park where there is a carousel his grandfather wants to ride everyday. Everyone thinks his grandfather is crazy. He always has these unbelievable stories he tells. Russell hates being seen with his grandfather as he thinks the bullying will get worse.

One day, Russell’s grandfather convinces him to ride the carousel with him. Reluctantly, Russell agrees. The duo was transported into another time and place on the horses they were on via the carousel. Russell realizes that the stories grandpa told might be real and his grandfather isn’t as crazy as originally believed.

From that day forward, Russell rides a different horse everyday and is transported into different scenarios, learning lessons about bravery and standing up for oneself.

Even though this is technically a kids book, I really enjoyed it. I like how every adventure was different and Russell was able to take something from each ride. The author did a good job with Russells character coming into his own as he embraces himself and becomes more confident with the help of magic.

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The Magic Carousel ( The Brass Ring Series book 1 ) by K.L. Small – Review by Caralee Loonat

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book by this author that I have read and I found it quite a unique story. This is a really good book for younger adults or pre teens. The author does a good job of creating a world and bringing the characters to life. I wish my kids were younger enough for this. The characters are very relatable. It is easy for kids to be able to relate to what the main character is going through. I would certainly read more from this author and this series.

Reviewed by @caraleeloonat
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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Russel’s been having a rough time lately, what with his grandpa moving in and taking his room, leaving Russel no choice but to stay in the basement, getting bullied, and possibly failing fifth grade. Though Russel has a dream to become a firefighter, he worries he won’t have enough courage. One day, when both Russel and his grandfather are out on their daily park outing, Rusell takes a ride on the carousel his grandfather always rides and finds himself transported into the past. This was a great and adventurous tale! The story was entertaining and easily kept the reader entertained throughout. Though this is a children’s book I was thoroughly engaged by both the events of the story and way the author seamlessly wove in the main elements of the book. This is a great story to read to kids that’s sure to captivate their imagination!

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Kerry Carr

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a beautiful story. It is one that children and adults will enjoy. The idea of this story is really unique and I love how each horse that Rusty rode on taught him a different thing about himself and made him realise just how brave and competent he is as a child growing into an adult.
Rusty is a sweet kid. But his life has problems, his dad is a alcoholic, he lost his bedroom to his grandad, he’s failing school and he is being bullied daily by someone who used to be his friend. Everyday is a fight as with every fight he loses his confidence in himself and his abilities gets less and less.
His grandad was always telling him fantastical stories. They were so crazy they couldn’t possible be real. One day when his grandad forced him to ride the carousel with him, Rusty sion finds out where his stories come from. What follows is an adventure that will take Rusty through time, meeting different horses and their lives and through it all learning just how brave and capable he is.

The horses characters were amazingly written and each one had a unique story and lesson to teach which really made it special.
This is a very magical ride which you will love no matter what your age.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Magical Carousel was a cute story. It is geared toward probably early elementary ages, but I enjoyed it as an adult. The author was great at painting the scenes. The characters were great and I’m glad it had a happy ending. I love that the author took the time to add the history lessons and glossary at the end of the book. What a fun way to learn a little of history and use of horses through the years. I see that the author previously released the book with another title, I like this one better. I love the relationship Rusty build with his grandpa. I like that the author created a strained relationship based on real life situations. I went through a similar situation as a teen, and the relationship I was able to build with my grandfather was one of a kind; a blessing. I was kind of caught off guard with the alcoholism added to the story, and how it was a turning point for Rusty. But I guess a lot of kids have to deal with that, so it can help them understand how it impacts their life, and it’s not their fault.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a fantastic story for readers both young and old. It dealt with some very real issues, such as serious illness, bullying, schooling struggling and an alcoholic parent, but written in a way that younger viewers could understand and not be overwhelmed. I loved the whimsy of a magical brass ring able to teleport the holder to all sorts of different time periods and places. I felt the character of Russell was very well written; his responses to the different stressors seemed pretty realistic. This was a great tale about a kiddo trying to find his footing and figure out who he is. I have read the author before and I really enjoy her use of imagery to really bring you into the story. I found it to be quick and easy read, but extremely enjoyable. I look forward to seeing the next books in the series.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Amelia Stansell

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an easy, great read. We meet Russel who is finishing up 5th grade. He is having a tough time this year. Grandpa had to move in and Russel and him go the carousel, one day something magical happens. Cannot wait for the next book.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

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I absolutely loved this book that I could not put it down. It reminds me of stories my grandma told me while I grew up. Russ is a bullied fifth grader who is struggling to find himself, you know like most fifth graders. He is constantly thinks that he is a failure but his grandpa reminds him that he isn’t. It’s amazing story that I like to read over and over again. Russ’s grandfathers’ love for the Carousel finds a place in Russ’ heart as well. If you get a chance to read this story, please read it. It really found a way into my heart and I can’t wait to read the other books in this series.

The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small

The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Star’s
The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small

The Magic Carousel is the first book in The Brass Ring Series and is a kids Fantasy that I think any age can enjoy. This is a preteen story that touches on many different subjects like bullying, family issues, health issues, then there’s drama, magic and so much more. Russell is a ten year old who has had life challenges and is being bullied add to that his grandfather is moving in with them as he’s not in good health. When grandpa ends up in the hospital he gives Russell something very precious. Get ready to be taken on quite the magical adventure and enjoy the wonderfully colorful illustrations that bring the story to life. I highly recommend reading this book and look forward to reading more from this Author.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Gillian Fawell

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I instantly fell in love with this story! The adventures took me back to my childhood when anything was possible and I was on the edge of my seat for each of Russell’s adventures! What would happen and how would he get through this one?! I particularly loved the historical aspect of each adventure and also the family sub-plot. I may have yelled at a couple of characters, but that’s a sign of an engaging story in my book! I can’t wait to read more in this series!

 

Reviewed by @sparkinside

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Jennifer Reimer

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was a very entertaining and interesting read. its about a boy named Russell who wants to be a firefighter when he grows up but doesn’t believe he’s brave enough to do it. with this magic of the carousel and his grandpa’s tales, Russell goes on an adventure he sees different places, learns new skills and in the grand of it all learns to be brave. This book was wonderfully written and was so amazing about how no matter what you can be brave deep down too. I felt like I was swept away with Russell and his adventure. This was a surprisingly amazing and well done.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Manda Kelly

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a very magical book. While it touched on very real things (medical issues, alcoholism, bullying) the author does an amazing job of tying the issues into the story and making it work in a way that young people can read and relate to, and understand. I, at 41, enjoyed the story. It was very well written and I look forward to reading more by this author.

Review By Manda Kelly

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Betsy Melano

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Russell feels like his life is falling apart. His former best friend is bullying him, his Dad is turning to alcohol, and his mom is making him take his grandfather to the local park everyday. What Russell doesn’t realize is that his grandfather has a special connection to the carousel. With a magic brass ring and the carousel, Russell’s grandfather can experience adventures you can only dream of. Some questions I can imagine kids asking as they read the book are, Where will they go next? How does Russell’s grandfather know which carousel horse to pic for these wild adventures?
This book would have been perfect for reading with my kids when they were elementary age. Although my kids are a bit older these days, I still think they would love it!

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Mandy Ott

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Magic Carousel is a fast-paced, exciting read! The target audience is 9-12 year olds, but my 39-year-old self absolutely loved it! It has a little bit of sadness with the sickness of Rusty’s grandpa, but it also has excitement, adventure, and magic! K. L. Small delivers unbelievably realistic characters who not only have flaws, but also struggle with different things in life. This book not only creates a magical world full of adventure, but also touches on real-world topics such as bullying, alcoholism, and health issues. This book reminded me that, despite all the negative things around me, there is still magic and excitement all around as well; I just have to look closer. The magical world beyond the carousel was so vividly detailed and explanatory that I felt like I was right alongside Rusty on his exploits. I can’t wait to read more books by K. L. Small!

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Amber Howard

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thought this story was adorable but it also showed how much what we do as adults affect children. My heart hurt for Rusty with everything he dealt with and felt. Very glad that he had his grandfather there to teach him that he was enough and that he had the power to steer his future and make a change. I love carousels and the magic of the story made them even better.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Crystal Brehant

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Clearly, this book is “meant” for elementary and middle school aged kids. I however, a full grown woman, thoroughly enjoyed this book. The magic and adventure included in this story is captivating. There are also relateable life experiences too that kids may relate to. My 6yo is at a 4th/5th grade level and I believe we will be adding this to his homeschool reading list! I think he will enjoy it. I hope there are more.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Melissa Saxton

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Poor Russel. We meet him as he’s struggling through school, failing exams, his best friend is now his constant bully. He’s been bumped to the basement for his room because his grandpa moved in. His father has a drinking problem. He feels resentful, he feels like he’s failing at everything.
Everyday he is supposed to bring grandpa to the park. Russell finds it silly grandpa wanted to ride the carousel every single day, but he’s about to learn just how special the carousel is!
Grandpa takes him on a journey to another land where Russel can be bold and brave. When they return from their first adventure grandpa has a stroke, leaving Russel to complete adventures
This book is a great read for school age kids with fantasty and real life components such as bullying, struggling at school, etc. So many great messages and I enjoyed the outcomes of the characters

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Ayla Eddy

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was an amazing adventure story! Reading to the littles before bedtime and they absolutely loved it. So much so that we ended up reading the whole story in one night. The time travel off a carousel ride was a great way to transport the magic. The way Russel struggles with school and home had both my children ready to jump into the book to defend him. Grandpa was an adorable old man. I would highly recommend this book to other middle grade readers. My littles and I cannot wait for the next book in the series. A new bedtime staple in this home!

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Kimberly Filer

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A wonderful adventure story for young adults. The main character Russell is relatable and you can’t help but feel everything he’s going through. His father drinks to much, his grades are slipping, he’s responsible for watching his aging grandfather while his mother goes to work. He’s lost his bedroom when his grandfather moved in with the family and now is stuck in the basement where its damp and dreary. Every day Russell must take his grandfather for a ride on the carousel, something which Russell feels is so babyish until that one day when something magical happens. The stories his grandfather used to tell have come to life in this heartwarming tale.