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A review by amber_hastings
The Time of Green Magic by Hilary McKay
funny
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Hilary McKay can do no wrong! This was an unusual story that balanced dreamy, magical realism with a very realistic depiction of a chaotic blended family.
It's rare that I enjoy a wandering perspective but I think Hilary masters it so well, giving you just enough insight into the secondary characters to build empathy for them while remaining invested in the protagonist.
I'd have liked a little bit more insight into the magic of the ivy and where the kids go when they're transported from the house to the worlds within their books ... but I suppose the message is that readings books is such a solitary, personal adventure.
After reading the Casson series it was nice to see a parent who was a little bit more engaged with the kids while still busy with their own work life.
I thought it was lovely that the main character, Abi, held her tongue so many times when cross with her stepbrothers — a subtle way of showing kids that venting anger in a hurtful way is never the best thing to do. I appreciated the earlier dialogue where she tells her new brothers she's had to give up everything, and the fact she retreats from the family when they're first blended. Very realistic without being over explained.
It's hard not to love little Louis and his acceptance and love for Iffen. And Max's awkward teen crush was delightfully embarrassing to read.
It's rare that I enjoy a wandering perspective but I think Hilary masters it so well, giving you just enough insight into the secondary characters to build empathy for them while remaining invested in the protagonist.
I'd have liked a little bit more insight into the magic of the ivy and where the kids go when they're transported from the house to the worlds within their books ... but I suppose the message is that readings books is such a solitary, personal adventure.
After reading the Casson series it was nice to see a parent who was a little bit more engaged with the kids while still busy with their own work life.
I thought it was lovely that the main character, Abi, held her tongue so many times when cross with her stepbrothers — a subtle way of showing kids that venting anger in a hurtful way is never the best thing to do. I appreciated the earlier dialogue where she tells her new brothers she's had to give up everything, and the fact she retreats from the family when they're first blended. Very realistic without being over explained.
It's hard not to love little Louis and his acceptance and love for Iffen. And Max's awkward teen crush was delightfully embarrassing to read.