This is the first book in the Reeds of West Hills series. This falls into the 9-12 year old fantasy category but as an adult I still found reading this book an enjoyable experience. The story focuses on twins Jon and Frank, and the magical gifts they are learning to control at their magical school. The writing was age appropriate and easy to follow, setting up the series nicely. The plot was fun and entertaining, keeping me engaged throughout with wit mystery and adventure. I certainly enjoyed reading this, and will move straight onto the second in the series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-09-01 19:06:562023-09-14 08:08:58The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This book is the first book in the series. This is a middle grade kid’s series. It was a fun read. It pulls you right in with the great characters. The plot also pulls you in and you just can’t wait to see what happens next.
This is a good book for kids who enjoy the adventure and mystery aspect. It gives off Harry Potter vibes and that’s always a win. Now that I’ve read it I’m going to recommend it to my son! Can’t wait to see the remainder of the series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angelina Frazzinihttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngelina Frazzini2023-06-09 07:50:252023-06-17 15:11:41The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Angelina Frazzini
This book is about a set of twins who begin to discover they have some special powers. When their powers are too much, they are sent away to a special school to help them learn to control them, (much like Harry Potter). Also like HP, they get into some trouble along the way. Jons rare gift leaves him as primary suspect for the theft of the Guardian of Whispers and he needs the help of his brother to clear his name. Good thing his brother can hear voices. This was a fun read and I really enjoyed it. It is well put together and the foundation is set for future books in the series. I am excited to see what comes next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Torey Fosterhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTorey Foster2023-06-02 10:30:522023-06-05 14:01:33The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Torey Foster
This was a fun read! It is definitely reminds me of Harry Potter, one of my very favorite series. This book takes me back to being a teenager reading Harry Potter for the first time. If 35 year old me loved this, then I know 13 year old me would love this book! I cannot wait to read more in this series. A little fantasy and fun to keep things exciting!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashlyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshly2023-06-01 00:00:112023-06-05 13:46:22The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Ashly Renner
This was a fun story to read….and perfect for the younger middle school ages and even for adults as well. The author took me on an adventure with mystery, intrigue, special gifts and I love the bond of the twins Jon and Frank. I am already looking forward to more in this series.
Jon and Frank are normal twin boys with a loving family and siblings. Jon is more of the adventurous and not afraid to stir up a little trouble, while his twin brother, Frank, definitely more quiet and laid back. When the time comes….the twins start to notice some changes…and their parents take note as well….the boys are truly special. Needing to hone in on their gifts and the rules that apply… Jon and Frank are sent to a special school for children whom have different special gifts.
What comes with these special gifts is learning how and when to use them….but when Jon is in trouble when a special relic goes missing…..will Frank, McClery and friends be able to clear Jon’s name?
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 Hoerner2023-05-31 21:31:332023-06-05 13:51:36The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Lorralei Hoerner
What a fun read! My 11-year-old daughter and I read this one together, and we both really enjoyed it! I think the story flows flawlessly and draws you into what the twins, Frank and Jon, are going through. I really enjoyed the imagery created around the Perceptually Gifted West Hills School as well. I feel like I would have read this even without my daughter, so we can’t wait for The Reeds of West Hills series to continue!
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 Kern2023-05-31 21:30:362023-06-05 13:51:16The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Shannen Kern
What would you do if a mysterious doctor showed up at your house and wanted to examine you and your twin brother? Then your parents start acting strangely, secretive even and they won’t let him check you out. This is exactly how Jon and Frank Reed’s adventure begins in the book The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett. This is an engaging tale of twin brothers who find out they have “gifts.” Both brothers have a hard time adjusting to and controlling their “gifts” aka powers. Deciding they needed help learning to control them, their parents sent them to a boarding school in Washington where their mom went when she needed to learn to control her power. So not only do they have to adjust to new powers, but also to a new place, and new people thousands of miles away from their big family.
I’m well over the 9-12 year old intended target age for this book but I really enjoyed it immensely! The characters are fun, realistic, and well-written; this helped the story flow nicely. The author has woven a magical tale that will leave you wanting more! I can’t wait to read the next installment and see what other adventures await Jon and Frank Reed.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Donyahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDonya2023-05-31 21:27:452023-06-05 13:51:00The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Donya Pedigo
The Guardian of Whispers is Book One in The Reeds of West Hills Series. This author was new to me, and I picked up a copy of the book, not realizing that it is a kid’s fantasy book aimed at children between the ages of nine to twelve years of age. It was actually the cover and title that intrigued me and compelled me to obtain a copy and I am so glad that I did. Now that I have read and enjoyed it, I feel that it can be enjoyed by both young and old alike.
The story focuses on twin boys who discover around the age of ten-years-old that have powers that as special as they are, also come with side effects. Jonathan has the power of prophecy which gives him horrendous nightmares. Franklin has the power of telepathy which causes him to hear constant whispering in his head. The children must learn to hone and control their special powers which requires them being sent away to a special school that is located thousands of miles from home. At West Hills School for the Perceptually Gifted they try to adjust to being away from their family while making new friends and honing their powers. When a powerful artifact is stolen from the school the fingers are pointed at Jon and it is up to the twins and their new friends to prove their innocence.
I loved this book and was captivated from the first few pages. The author’s writing style is engaging, and this book is fun, imaginative, and entertaining. The storyline was compelling, the characters were unique, quirky, and lovable, and the setting was vividly written which immerses you into the story. The special powers that the characters had were fascinating and I found myself wishing that I had some of those abilities. This book had action, mystery, drama, suspense, and of course magical powers. I cannot wait for the next book in this series.
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 Barnes2023-05-31 17:53:462023-06-05 13:37:04The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
This is the first book in The Reeds of West Hills series. It is about The Reed family, Frank and Jon (twins) discover they have special powers. Frank can read minds and Jon can see the future. They come by this gift from their mother. They get sent to a school in Washinton State to learn to adjust to their new gifts, and with magical adventures ahead. This book is wonderfully written and perfect for kids in middle grade. I personally can’t wait to share it with my grandson who is 10 and loves to read. As an adult I loved this book and can’t wait to see what other adventures await.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Toni Sellershttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngToni Sellers2023-05-30 21:18:022023-06-05 13:31:57The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Toni Sellers
This was so much fun to have my son read to me; we’re working on reading skills, and he did really well with it. He loved the book and can’t wait for more. We haven’t read this author before, but based off this book we need to check out any others! I loved how easily it kept my son engaged, with a little suspense to it. We can’t wait to see what comes next!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Westermanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Westerman2023-05-29 21:01:212023-05-29 21:01:21The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Ashley Westerman
This is an entertaining story right from the start. The twins were brilliant characters. I loved their dynamic and the connections they built with the the other characters. They were engaging and easy to connect with. The story itself was well written and fast paced. It was an exciting story that would appeal to all ages. I also really liked the cover of the book. It has a light hearted feel, which is unusual for this genre Book. This is a great story that is thoroughly enjoyable.
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 Baker2023-05-29 15:23:442023-05-30 08:09:03The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Kerry Baker
Mystery, adventure, suspense. This fun read will pull you in quickly. Frank and Jon are twin brothers that have to navigate their discovery of magical powers. As the story goes on, you are drawn in more and more and root for them until the last page. The supporting characters and descriptive text bring the story to life in front of your eyes! Definitely a great for those young readers who are into magic and lore or older readers who want a fun shorter read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Nakyshia Legerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngNakyshia Leger2023-05-29 08:21:472023-05-30 08:12:26The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Nakyshia Leger
This book is the first in a series and I would say it’s aimed at children/middle grade. It’s an alternative fantasy/magical school setting. It was a fun story, very easy to read, and light-hearted.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Robbhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Robb2023-05-29 07:10:322023-05-30 08:12:15The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Stephanie Robb
A little bit of a Harry Potter feel to it has the reader diving into the story of Jon and Frank Reed. They are twins with some pretty cool special abilities. When they are sent away to school to refine these abilities, they come across some interesting people who are like them in some ways. The school has regular academic coursework, along with classes for each special gift.
Jon is a bit of an enigma as they’ve not seen his gift in many years. Could that gift become his downfall, his curse? He gets to have exposure to the Guardian of Whispers but then it does missing and everyone automatically blames him. Can Frank help him out in any way? Frank hears voices so maybe Jon can get a message to him before it’s too late.
This is a super fun middle school fantasy book. I look forward to reading about the next adventures of the Reed brothers!
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 Johnson2023-05-27 14:36:562023-05-30 08:06:50The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Julie Johnson
B. E. Padgett’s The Guardian of Whispers, the first book in an enchanting series for middle-grade readers, offers a captivating and imaginative adventure that will remind you of the beloved Harry Potter and Percy Jackson stories. Set around the Reed family, including Eugene, mischievous twins Jonathan and Franklin, Peter, Clara, their doctor father Harvey, law enforcement mother Cecelia, and their caretaker, great aunt Gladys, the book takes readers on a delightful journey. The Reed family’s ordinary routine takes an exciting turn when Dr. Harrison arrives, displaying a keen interest in examining the twins. To their surprise, it is revealed that both boys possess extraordinary abilities inherited from their mother—Franklin has telepathy, while Jonathan has the gift of prophecy. As a result, the twins are enrolled in a specialized school designed to help them control and understand their unique powers. Once at their new school, Jonathan and Franklin begin forming friendships, but Jonathan soon realizes that his gift is extremely rare among his peers, leaving him feeling isolated. Furthermore, he becomes suspicious of his assigned teacher. Jonathan’s protective nature towards his brother and his fiery temper often land him in trouble. Things take a sinister turn when a valuable artifact goes missing, and incriminating evidence is planted in Jonathan’s house, making him the prime suspect. Franklin and their friends Damien and Nate also find themselves under scrutiny. With only a few supporters believing in Jonathan’s innocence and constant surveillance weighing them down, the children must band together, with the help of Mr. McClery, to uncover the identity of the thief known as the Guardian of Whispers. From the very beginning, The Guardian of Whispers captivates readers with its thrilling pace, limitless imagination, and sheer entertainment value. While it shares similarities with Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, the story weaves its own unique innovations within this familiar framework, presenting a refreshing narrative that keeps readers engrossed until the very last page. The storytelling is superb, ensuring that every moment is enjoyable, making the book a truly delightful and satisfying read. Well-written and engaging, The Guardian of Whispers feature realistically portrayed characters and a plot that holds your interest from start to finish. It’s the perfect book to share with your child and embark on a thrilling adventure together.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Nicolehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngNicole2023-05-26 13:38:162023-05-30 07:54:08The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills) by B.E. Padgett
Loved the story line even as an adult, and much in the lines of Percy Jackson, Wings of Fire, Harry Potter; yet less dark so suitable for audiences of all ages. I enjoyed the banter between the two main characters, Frank and Jon, and the connection they have being twins.
The role of minor characters is also important in this book, which I think sends a positive message that not everyone needs to be a lead character/person to make an impact in the world. The mystery aspect of this book was intriguing, and even as an adult I didn’t guess the culprit until he was revealed. I enjoyed learning about the different classes the 10 year olds attend, and the author does a great job “showing” instead of boringly giving a syllabus. Overall, I recommend this read!
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 Crain2023-05-24 20:07:542023-05-30 07:44:31The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Jennifer Crain
This middle grades book is a great one for kids from 4th- 7th grade and beyond. The characters – the twins, Jon and Frankie are likable. It was fun to read about their discovery of their own special gifts, going to boarding school, and making new friends! I liked that each student of the school had their own special teacher based on their specific gift. I know Jon wasn’t too happy with his teacher at first (cleaning the house and yard were not his gift!), and he had a hard time with learning how to control his gift and the nightmares were not fun. And while all this is happening, Jon and Frankie are still just typical kids – wanting friendships, playing soccer and missing their mom, dad and brother.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tanya Wallhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTanya Wall2023-05-24 10:35:512023-05-30 07:39:22The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Tanya Wall, May 2023
This middle grade fantasy book is like Avengers ,Twilight or any other super hero book/movie where every child finds out that he/she has a super natural power. They find out the power, they struggle to gain control over it. They have to go to a gifted school or a school of magic where they have to be trained to control their power. There they face challenges and it is upto them to face the hurdles and emerge victorious with their evolving powers. I love these type of books. This book is centred around twins Frank and Jon, who figure out they have fascinating abilities, one can read minds and other can see future. But the gifts are never gifts, one has to pay the price. They are to attend a new school, and Jon gets into trouble. Will Frank and his new friends help Jon from the trouble and getting expelled? I enjoyed it thoroughly, it was an easy read and I hope to read many more of this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Anantha Rusumhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAnantha Rusum2023-05-21 10:36:492023-05-30 07:21:43The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Anantha Rusum
Jonathan and Franklin Reed are twin boys living in Florida with their family, which consists of their parents, Aunt Gladys, older brother Eugene, younger brother Peter, and younger sister Clara. The bossy life is pretty typical, until just after they turn 10. Then Jonathan begins to see shadows of events that happen shortly after, while Franklin starts to hear voices that nobody else hears. At first, the boys keep these new abilities to themselves, until one night Franklin has a nightmare that he is almost unable to wake up from. That’s when his mother calls in an old friend who looks at the boys and figures out what is going on with them. The friend, as well as the mother, has gifts, for the mom, it’s being an empathy, which she puts to work in her job as a cop. For the friend, it’s being able to hear other peoples thoughts, much like Frank. Jon on the other hand has a much rarer gift, the ability to see the future. The twins head off to a school in Washington state for people with just such gifts. Here they find friends, mentors and others like them, but also danger and trouble.
This book is an excellent read. I would recommend it for anyone over the age of about 10, who likes magic, mystery and friendship. I truly cannot wait for the next book in this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Candice Esteshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCandice Estes2023-05-20 23:35:082023-05-30 07:21:06The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by
I absolutely LOVED this book. As an avid reader, I seek out stories that have continuing characters because when you fall in love with a character, you never want their story to end. The first draw to me was that this is a series, the next was the fantasy aspect. I think sometimes “fantasy” can get a bad rap; I enjoy stories that take ordinary people and give them a touch of the extraordinary, which is exactly what B.E. Padgett did with this story! This book probably falls under the teen/young adult category, in terms of audience it was written for, but I enjoyed it just as thoroughly as I do books “written for me” (meaning my age group). I have a son in elementary school, and although the Reed boys are a bit older than my kiddo, I easily could see my son and his friends as the characters in this book, and that added to the fun!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sharonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSharon2023-05-20 13:32:312023-05-27 08:39:51The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Sharon Funkhouser
This is the beginning of a fabulous new series! The characters are amazing. Secret societies, and special schools. There are siblings, friends, foes, and loved ones. I love the way the author set up the next installment. I read this on my Kindle, but now I’m going to have to get a hard copy for my classroom.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Alison Risherhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAlison Risher2023-05-17 18:01:502023-05-24 13:53:52The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Alison Risher
I enjoyed reading this middle school story. It is a story that has a twist of suspense to it. A story that is well written and one that any middle schooler would enjoy. Frank and Jon both have some talents that could just get them in trouble. They are sent to a school that is for the gifted and they hope that this will be better for them. Jon finds himself being suspected of stealing a relic. Will the crime get solved before Jon gets expelled? I enjoyed how they pulled me into their story. They all have great growth throughout. This is an easy story to read and entertaining as well. This is a great story that I highly recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2023-05-17 08:28:082023-05-24 13:47:32The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Bobbi Wagner
The book had me hooked from the first chapter. It was an enjoyable read that keeps your interest from start to finish. The characters are thought out and easy to connect with. It has adventure, action, and plot twists. I cannot wait to continue on in this series!
This is the first book in The Reeds of West Hills series. It follows twins Frank and Jon as they gain unique powers in fifth grade. Frank can read minds while Jon can see the future. Unable to control their powers the boys are sent to a boarding school that will assist them in learning to use their powers. However, this move isn’t going as planned when Jon becomes the one blamed for a dangerous relic going missing. Frank, friends, and a grump teacher must hurry to clear his name before Jon gets expelled. Does Jon get expelled? Pick up the book and find out!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ayla Eddyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAyla Eddy2023-05-05 05:50:162023-05-12 13:06:29The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Ayla Eddy
The Guardian of Whispers is the first fun and engaging book in The Reeds of West Hills a kid’s fantasy series. It is a little Harry Potteresque and is aimed at teens aged 9 to 12 years. Having said that I am sure that a YA audience will enjoy it to. This is the first book I have read by this author, and I enjoyed the tale. This magical tale is one of growth and confidence, siblings, family and friendships. Follow along as we join ten-year-old twins as they learn to rely on each other and new friends as they are sent to West Hills School for the Perceptually Gifted after gaining special abilities. However not everything is smooth sailing. Abilities comes with consequences and the boys much learn how to navigate them. When the Guardian of Whispers goes missing it is up to one of them to clear the others name. With newfound friends they work together to find the real thief and save the day. If you love Percy Jackson and other magical tales, then you will enjoy this one.
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 Bishop2023-05-04 23:13:182023-05-12 12:57:10The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Jenni Bishop
I have read and watched all of the Harry Potter books/movies. I have to say that this book has a similar feel to it, and I absolutely loved it! This book is about twins Frank and Jon Reed who have some fascinating abilities: Frank starts reading minds and Jon can see the future. Both gifts have come with a heavy price tag, and are difficult to control. So, the twins must attend West Hills School for the Perceptually Gifted in hopes that they can learn to control their powers. However, as Frank and Jon soon discover moving to a new school is challenging. Jon gets himself into a big bind when something important goes missing. Will Frank and his friends save Jon from expulsion from the school? Find out by reading The Guardian of Whispers today!
I seriously read the whole book in one sitting and could not stop!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jamie Burnshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJamie Burns2023-05-04 23:06:362023-05-12 12:57:04The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Jamie Burns
“All right, Mister Ree-ed.” McClery drew Jon’s last name out with a grumpy tone. “Follow me then.” McClery passed him, leaning on his cane and limping slightly. Professor Mortensen grinned nervously at Jon but didn’t offer any comfort. Sucking it up, Jon lifted his chin and followed the older man out the door. They left the main school building by way of the front stairs and continued down a pathway. “Sir, where are we going?” Jon asked, but the man beside him only grunted. Jon hated being ignored, but he was too nervous and confused to say anything. Their strangely silent walk ended at a small cottage on the edge of the school property. McClery pulled an old skeleton key out of his pocket and jimmied the lock a bit before opening the door. “There is no classroom available for your lessons,” McClery grumbled as he pocketed the key and shuffled inside, “so we will be using this house for the time being.”
“Food fight!” yelled Damien as he grabbed what was leftover on his plate. Chaos erupted in the cafeteria. Even though it had started at the fifth-grade table, the sixth and seventh graders quickly joined in with their own methods of attack. Many students ran for the doors, while others scrambled to combine what ammunition they could find. For the first time in almost a month, Jon chuckled. His laugh only grew as Frank wiped potatoes from his face and stared at him. Soon, Frank couldn’t hold back his chuckles either. Grabbing his brother’s hand, Jon pulled him under a table. “All right, you’re on collections. I’ve got targeting.” “Sniper?” Frank whispered. “Yes. Can you find me more meatloaf?” Frank nodded and left, returning quickly with several half-eaten pieces. Jon searched under the table until he found a spoon and fork. Perfect. As Frank massaged the meatloaf pieces into small balls, Jon placed them on the fork, drawing on years of practice for high-precision aiming. Meatloaf balls started flying from their corner. Jon pumped his fist as one hit a larger eighth-grader on the shoulder. A loud, booming voice gave Jon his next target. He pulled his fork back like a catapult and let the meatloaf ball fly. It soared through the air and landed with a small splat. “Yes!” Jon jumped up to see his victory hit. His voice echoed through the suddenly silent room. “Mister Reeeeeed!” A piece of meatloaf was dangling from Professor Owens’s mustache.
The Guardian of Whispers is the first book in The Reeds of West Hills by B.E. Padgett. This is the first book that I have read by Ms. Padgett, so I really didn’t know what to expect from one of her stories- but the cover and blurb intrigued me, so I one-clicked a copy and set off to explore. What I discovered was a fun urban fantasy aimed at middle school aged children (9 – 12 years old)- but I am WAY older than that and I still enjoyed following along on the adventure- so I would say that it is a story that could be enjoyed by any age (from 7 years and up). This paranormal adventure introduces us to Jon and Frank, 10yr old twins, and their large zany family. They reminded me of the Weasley’s from Harry Potter- and the story definitely has Harry Potter/Percy Jackson vibes- as Jon and Frank have magical gifts that they need to learn to control, and so off to the magical academy they go., where their adventures really begin. The story is a fun start to the series, and even though there were times that the story felt rushed, or sections with some info dumping- the story, as a whole, was enjoyable. I can see how the author was trying to lay the groundwork/foundations for the series here, as well as setting up this adventure, and as the story progressed, things did get smoother. So, I am looking forward to seeing how things develop in book #2- The Secret of Arkaim. With action, adventure, magical powers, challenges, a priceless missing relic, crime and investigation, mystery, intrigue, mayhem, antics, banter, quirky characters, self-discovery, boarding school for the gifted, friendship, family, drama, and a touch of the unexpected- makes for a fun read. 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 Hayes2023-05-04 23:05:042023-05-12 12:56:55The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book #1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Angela Hayes
I thought the author did a wonderful job of setting up a fantastic series start. We meet the Reed twins, Jon and Frank, who it turns out, have special powers. This story definitely gave me Percy Jackson vibes and fans of that series will absolutely love this series. The book does a great job a creating a nice mixture of action, adventure, heart, and humor. The author has created a magical new world that will delight readers young and young at heart. I can’t wait to see what happens next in the series.
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-Doris2023-05-03 21:02:442023-05-12 12:37:48The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris
I found this to be an entertaining story. It did remind me of Harry Potter in some ways. It does have a fresh and original way in other ways. The characters, especially the brothers, have such a tight bond. This makes their adventures kind of exciting. I found the whole book to be exciting when looking at it from a child’s stance. It’s got that sense of adventure and fun that kids are looking for. I loved the suspense between the parents and the doctor. It’s a good book.
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 Kittell2023-05-03 08:21:352023-05-12 12:32:34The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Shelly Kittell
Not long into fifth grade, ten-year-old twins Frank and Jon Reed undergo extraordinary changes: Frank starts reading minds. Jon can see the future. But every magical gift has a cost.
The constant voices whispering in Frank’s head won’t stop. He can’t sleep or even think. Horrifying nightmares plague Jon, making it harder and harder for him to wake up.
Their hope lies at West Hills School for the Perceptually Gifted, a boarding school in the Pacific Northwest, and the only place they can learn to control their powers.
Moving to a new school means making new friends, meeting new teachers, and being required to live thousands of miles from their family. At least they have each other . . . until a dangerous relic, the Guardian of Whispers, goes missing. All evidence of the theft points to Jon.
With the school board on the verge of expelling Jon for the crime, Frank, his friends, and a grouchy old gifts teacher must catch the real culprit and clear Jon’s name.
The Guardian of Whispers is the first book in the middle grade kid’s fantasy series The Reeds of West Hills. Fans of Rick Riordan and TJ Klune’s The House in the Cerulean Sea will enjoy this book.
B. E. Padgett is a poet and children’s author in the Pacific Northwest. She was a student affair professional at Everett Community College before pursuing her passion for writing and storytelling. She graduated with a B. A. in Professional and Creative Writing from Central Washington University. She was editor-in-chief at Manastash Literary Journal and event coordinator for Poetry Northwest.
Growing up in a loud and chaotic family of eight inspired her to create stories about sibling connections and challenges. Although she enjoys many things in life, she considers being an auntie one of her biggest joys. She is best known for her series The Reeds of West Hills.
Her hobbies include crocheting stuffed animals, dress up tea parties, graphic design, illustration, whistling and reading.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/guardianofwhispers.jpg1200794itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-05-03 00:04:452023-11-28 12:06:55The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett
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