literaryzoe 's review for:

The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer

5.0

adventurous inspiring lighthearted medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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The wishing game follows Lucy Hart, who during her difficult childhood found comfort in a book series called Clock Island. Now a teacher's aide, Lucy shares the same love of the series with one of her students, Christopher, whom Lucy would do anything to adopt.

So when the famous author of the books announces that he has finally written a new book and is hosting a competition at his home on the real Clock Island, Lucy does everything she can to be a part of it.

This book felt like a warm hug.

I loved the magical realism and the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory vibes. The magical realism, in my opinion, was done really well.

I loved that this book also touched on heavier topics and shed light on what it’s like to be a “glass sibling.”

This book also centers around the power of dreams and facing your fears.

Every character was unique and different, but I couldn’t help falling in love with each and every one of the characters and their story.

The games were fun and enjoyable, and I especially enjoyed the addition of riddles. I have come to realize I love a riddle in books and trying to figure out the answer.

Overall I believe all readers should give this a go; it was brilliant and had a very nostalgic feel to it. I couldn’t help but think about all the children’s books that shaped my childhood; a few standouts of mine would have to be Peter Pan, The Magic Faraway Tree Collection, Tashi & BFG.