Posted in MG Novels, So Many Good Books

Over the Moon

Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Over the Moon (Scholastic Press, 2019) by Natalie Lloyd is a delightful fantasy. That doesn’t mean there isn’t trouble.

Twelve-year-old Mallie Ramble’s family depends on her wages, since her father can no longer go Down Under and work in the mine. But she’s sick of leaving Coal Top and going down to the valley to work as a servant for the rich. When an opportunity comes up for adventure and riches–even if it is for boys only, especially orphans–Mallie applies. However, her new job is more risky than she could imagine.

Meet Starbirds (flying horses), villains, monsters, and more in this world of dust where once people wove starlight.

I’ve recommended Natalie Lloyd’s first book here. See her other books here. And read about her here.

Posted in MG Novels, So Many Good Books

A Snicker of Magic

Marvelous Middle Grade Monday
SnickerofmagicA Snicker of Magic (Scholastic Press, 2014) by Natalie Lloyd reminds me a bit of Savvy by Ingrid Law–I think it’s Natalie’s wonderful use of language. I like the fullness of hope in this story, too.
Felicity Pickle sees and collects words from everywhere, like magic. And magic might just be what she is looking for. She and her little sister Frannie Jo are facing yet another new town and new school. But this time is different–Midnight Gulch is the town where their mother grew up. Maybe they’ll get to stay. And, maybe Felicity can undo the curse that sent the magic away all those years ago.
This is author Natalie Lloyd’s first book, but according to her blog we can expect more as she’s working on revisions… Yea! And you should take a look at her blog just to see pictures of her dog Biscuit.