Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Book Review ~ The Book of Wonders

The Book of Wonders
by Jasmine Richards
published by HarperCollins
genre: MG, Fantasy, Debut

Summary (full @Goodreads): Magic, Djinn, Ogres, and Sorcerers. Thirteen-year-old Zardi loves to hear stories about fantastical beings, long banned from the kingdom of Arribitha. But anyone caught whispering of their powers will feel the rage of the sultan—a terrifying usurper who, even with his eyes closed, can see all...

My Thoughts: I've found when I'm having trouble finishing books, if I pick up an MG book it helps get me out of my slump. This book was no exception. I enjoyed both the world and the characters that the author brought us. Some may seem familiar, there is a correlation to Aladdin and Arabian Nights. We even have the characters searching for Aladdin to take over ruling Arribitha from the evil Sultan.
  There were times throughout that I wished the story had only focused on one character, either Sardi or Ridhan's. I found myself liking Rdhan better and was more interested in his story since it had to do with magic and sorcerers. Also, while the Sultan and what he did to Sardi's family (as well as the whole country) was terrible, Ridhan's dad came off as much more vile and those are the type of villain's I like reading about.
Overall, this was a fun enjoyable read with a great set up for a next book (nothing showing at this time).  From Sardi and Ridhan to the pirates and djinni there is something for everyone. The twists in the story made sure it did not become boring and keeps you reading to the end.

Rating: 4 (wavered between this and 3.5)

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