Review Detail

Eva Evergreen is a young witch about to embark on her Novice Quest. As the daughter of one of the most renowned Grand Master witches, many would expect her to pass a Novice Quest easily. However, unlike her mother, Eva only has a pinch of magic. Using too much causes her to fall asleep or pass out. If she doesn't pass her Novice Quest, the Council of Witches and Wizards will have her magic removed completely. With increasing pressure, she journeys to Auteri, a coastal town known for its Festival of Lights, where she must "do good" for the length of one moon. In her case, doing good means protecting the whole town from a dangerous magical storm that could potentially hit them. With just a pinch of magic, a lot of cleverness, and several new friends, Eva will discover that her own power is perfect as is.

EVA EVERGREEN: SEMI-MAGICAL WITCH is one of the most heartwarming, utterly adorable middle grade fantasy books I've ever read. The comparison to Kiki's Delivery Service is perfection. EVA EVERGREEN is a story that will wrap you up in a warm hug and let you know it's okay to have a path that differs from what's expected or what's ideal.

Eva's journey is a perfect balance of character growth and intensifying external plot. Between the threats from the head of the Council to the horrifying Culling to the anxiety-inducing mayor, Eva is right in the middle of quite the pickle(s). However, Eva can't repair everything alone. An important theme in EVA EVERGREEN is the power of community. Eva has a rocky start with the townspeople, but she keeps going, eager to help and to fix any mistakes she makes, and always willing to keep trying. As she gains new friendships, it is their encouragement and belief in her that helps her believe in herself. When it comes time to prove herself at the end, it is only with the help of the whole community that she is able to do what needs to be done.

Brimming with magic, friendship, wonder, and a touch of whimsy, EVA EVERGREEN is an absolute delight that will capture the hearts of young readers and show them that you don't have to be the most magical or the most of anything. You only have to be yourself and be open to stepping outside the box.