Reviews

I really wanted to love this story but unfortunately it 'only' got three stars from me (not a bad rating, I know). For me, the main reason I didn't love it was because the pacing felt off. The first half of the book was rather slow and the latter half felt a bit rushed. I did enjoy the little stories in between the chapters, though not so much the parts where the 'narrator' interrupted.

The illustrations scattered throughout the book were amazing though, and it really got me to enjoy the story a bit more!

lolarobles's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

makexbelieve's review against another edition

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5.0

Moonchild: Voyage of the Lost and Found is a wonderful Middle Grade adventure which will delight readers and have them racing to reach the end. It is full of rich world building, and the Sahar Peninsula is exquisitely described. From midnight souks, to animal-companion jinni, it has a magic children will long to be part of.

The real stand out for me in this story was the wonderful narration. It has easily the most vivid, exciting narrator I have come across in a children's story for a long time. The short stories woven through the main narrative are also skilfully done, and it was always a treat to have a glimpse into someone else's world.

Moonchild is full of representation, from characters with mental illness, to different skin tones, to Amira's two mothers. Despite its extraordinary magic, readers will find themselves reflected within Moonchild's pages, and a world that will welcome them no matter who they are. There are even discussions about periods, which I can't remember seeing in Middle Grade before and know I would have so appreciated at that age.

Bushby also packs in a powerful exploration of emotions and the importance of understanding them, rather than always trying to push them away or keep them bottled up inside. This story really is superb, and there's so much potential for the next in the series - I can't wait to find out what happens!

Thank you Egmont for letting me review this story via NetGalley

librarypatronus's review against another edition

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4.0

3.5 stars! This was a lovely, diverse middle grade read for fans of kitty cat sidekicks, stories within stories, and magical mayhem. I loved the discussions around emotions and how they are tied to the magic system. I also loved that we had LGBTQ rep without any drama around it, Amira has two sea witch mothers and no one seems to be surprised or have any problem with this.

charlottesomewhere's review against another edition

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adventurous mysterious

A lovely Middle Grade fantasy packed with magic and adventure. I adored Amira and her magical feline sidekick. Aisha's writing is, as always, gorgeous.

librarianlayla's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring mysterious reflective sad fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

4.5 stars.

Fast paced action and plenty of emotions, this story was a rollercoaster from start to finish and that ending hurt me. I look forward to the sequel!

Lovers of the moon, the sea and adventures of the soul will enjoy this magical story of love, loss and discovery.

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