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Joplin Wishing

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By DeeDee

Joplin Wishing
by Diane Stanley
HarperCollins, 2017. Fiction. 255 p.
Joplin's grandfather, a famous author, has died, and her mother isn't taking it very well.  When they visit her grandfather's home, Joplin is allowed to choose one item as a keepsake. Joplin finds a tin with the pieces of an old Dutch china platter in it.  It is so beautifully painted that a friend of the family agrees to arrange to have it restored. One day as Joplin is gazing at the picture of the girl on the platter, she wishes for a friend. That starts a series of events that lead Joplin to friendship, family, and magic.

Diane Stanley is a veteran fantasy writer but this is her first attempt at a contemporary setting. A lot of contemporary fantasy involves sword fights and monsters, but Stanley resolves the conflicts completely without violence. Joplin's compassion and persistence are the real magic in this read alike to Stead's When You Reach Me.  (255 p.)
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