A Tale of Magic

91Y9BpiYGAL
Author(s)
Age Range
9+
Release Date
October 01, 2019
ISBN
978-0316523479
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This #1 New York Times bestseller is the first book in a new series set in Chris Colfer's Land of Stories universe, perfect for both new and longtime fans!

When Brystal Evergreen stumbles across a secret section of the library, she discovers a book that introduces her to a world beyond her imagination and learns the impossible: She is a fairy capable of magic! But in the oppressive Southern Kingdom, women are forbidden from reading and magic is outlawed, so Brystal is swiftly convicted of her crimes and sent to the miserable Bootstrap Correctional Facility.

But with the help of the mysterious Madame Weatherberry, Brystal is whisked away and enrolled in an academy of magic! Adventure comes with a price, however, and when Madame Weatherberry is called away to attend to an important problem she doesn't return.

Do Brystal and her classmates have what it takes to stop a sinister plot that risks the fate of the world, and magic, forever?

Fall in love with an all-new series from Chris Colfer, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Land of Stories, filled with adventure, imagination, and wonderfully memorable characters both familiar and new.

A #1 New York Times bestseller
An IndieBound bestseller
A USA Today bestseller
A Wall Street Journal bestseller

User reviews

1 review
Overall rating
 
5.0
Plot
 
5.0(1)
Characters
 
5.0(1)
Writing Style
 
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A Tale of Magic Review - Nice magical read!
(Updated: June 30, 2026)
Overall rating
 
5.0
Plot
 
5.0
Characters
 
5.0
Writing Style
 
5.0
Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)
 
N/A
A Tale of Magic follows Brystal Evergreen, a girl who discovers she has magical abilities in a society where both magic and education for women are forbidden. Her journey from punishment to possibility drives the story, especially once she enters a hidden world where magic is taught and protected.

What stands out most is Brystal herself. She is determined and not afraid to question rules that clearly do not make sense. Watching her go from someone with limited choices to someone who actively shapes her own future makes her storyline engaging. Her growth feels earned, especially as she learns to trust both herself and others.

The magic school element adds a lot of fun and variety. Each character brings something different, and the group dynamic makes the story more interesting. Their powers and teamwork create moments that feel exciting without losing focus on the bigger conflict. Madame Weatherberry also adds a sense of mystery that keeps things moving, especially when her absence becomes important to the plot.
Another highlight is how the story builds its conflict. The rules of the Southern Kingdom are strict, and the consequences for breaking them are serious. This makes every choice Brystal makes feel important. The stakes are clear, and the tension grows naturally as the story continues.

For new readers, it helps to know that the book includes characters facing unfair treatment. At the same time, it focuses on friendship, growth, and learning to use one’s voice. It is easy to follow and does not require background knowledge of the Land of Stories series.

Overall, A Tale of Magic delivers a strong main character, engaging friendships, and a storyline that keeps building toward something bigger.
Good Points
Brystal’s character growth feels meaningful and satisfying to follow

The magic school and group of characters add variety and energy to the story

The conflict builds in a way that keeps each decision important and impactful
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