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ruminations_reverie 's review for:

Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell
5.0

Yep! It is as good as they say. This unlocked the feelings I had when first reading The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, Harry Potter, and Percy Jackson, or watching shows like Avatar: The Last Airbender. There is magic on each page and wonder in each vivid description.

I am such a sucker for a middlegrade. There is something special about the simple, yet wonderous nature of the storytelling and power in each quote, imparting valuable life lessons. In this one there is a lot of commentary surrounding the underestimation of children, the strength and burden of memory, and, of course, the courage and bravery that lives in the heart of every child who refuses to turn and run from a challenge. These lessons are so important to learn at this age and I think Rundell does it in a fun and entertaining way.

Christopher and Mal were fantastic to follow and the little found-family that they gather along the way are dear to my heart. I tried picking just one favorite....but I simply can't. The myriad of magical creatures, mysterious strangers, and brave adventurers that are contained within, each offer something special to the story. They act as elements of world-building, character development, and they help to further the story. The characters are spunky, funny, and full of personality. Each is unique from the others and none are unlikable.

My only real complaint is that the pacing seems to speed up toward the end and we quickly hop from scene to scene, not giving us the opportunity to live in the moments that could have helped to build this story further,

Overall, an incredible read that has heart, humor, and adventure. Perfect for that special kid in your life or that person who wants to rediscover the magic they once held deep inside. I hope this is the beginning of a series, as I am desperate to follow Christopher as he ventures back to the Archipelago and encounters more of the magical species that reside within.