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Reading age
8-12
Genre
Fantasy
Publisher
Margaret K. McElderry Books
Publication date
August 20, 2024
Xavier loves birds. He enjoys watching them and learning about them and dreams of making an incredible discovery one day. However, when his dad loses his job and they have to move in with his Nana Susan, Xavier finds himself in a mysterious dell.
In this dell, he witnesses the sky ripping open and a magpie emerging. Tragically, bees attack the magpie, and all that remains of the bird is its skeleton, along with a strange marble. Soon after these events, Xavier meets a girl named Clem, who reveals that the magpie is no ordinary bird. Instead, it was a carrier tasked with bringing “The Nother” into the world.
This book was nothing short of exceptional, leaving a lasting impression with its captivating writing style. The author painted vivid images with words, allowing me to immerse myself fully in the story. One of the standout characters for me was Xavier; he struck me as a brilliant boy, radiating a refreshing nonchalance toward the opinions of others. His complexity was compelling, drawing me in with every chapter.
Clem, on the other hand, was equally fascinating. Her strong-willed demeanor and a deep sense of responsibility created a magnetic presence on the page. I found myself admiring her determination and tenacity. The dynamic between Xavier and his older brother, Nicholas, provided an engaging layer to the narrative. Nicholas’s annoying antics and Xavier’s responses added humor and tension, showcasing the complexity of sibling relationships.
Overall, the combination of a gripping storyline and well-developed characters made for a riveting read. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone in search of an exhilarating literary escape.