Review Detail

Going into this book, I was not aware that it was a part of The Norendy Tales series I've seen in the stores. However, if you have read the first installment you may be more familiar with the magical setting. It can be enjoyed as a standalone as I did, and it had me intrigued to read the rest of the series.

The Hotel Balzaar is a wonderful fantasy that packs a lot into its pages even though it is short in length. The readers will want more after finishing the story, but DiCamillo ties the story up neatly in a satisfying way. The setting of a grand hotel reminded me of the Eloise books by Kay Thompson as the main character Marta finds wonder in even the smallest details of her current world. Seeing the world through her eyes will make adult readers full of childhood nostalgia and for its intended audience, one great big adventure!

Júlia Sardà's detailed artwork is stunning and adds to the overall atmosphere of the novel. It helps to illustrate the stories within the story and sparks the reader's imagination. I enjoyed the way the storytelling was done in a bedtime story manner it makes the novel feel like a cozy hug. You will find such delight in each new story the Countess tells adding a layer of suspense for the questions she leaves unanswered.

I appreciated how this novel is simple, yet fanciful and fun from beginning to end. It reminds us that
hope is always alive, even when things look bleak. I can't wait to read more of this series!