Review: The Grace of Wild Things

By Heather Fawcett

HarperCollins Publishers, 2023. 360 Pgs.

Grace has always known that she was different from the other children at the orphanage and when she was overlooked for adoption once again she decides to run away. She has never been good at anything except magic so she goes looking for the witch who lives in the woods.

Grace is determined to become the witches apprentice no matter how scary she may be and Grace tells herself that the witch surely isn't as wicked as everyone claims. But when Grace is nearly eaten by the witch she is forced to reconsider her plan. In desperation she strikes a bargain with the witch. Grace agrees to complete the witch's book of spells by the time the cherry trees bloom. If she can finish all of the spells in the witch's book, the witch will take her on as her apprentice, but if she fails she must freely give her magic to the witch.

If you love the classic story of Anne of Green Gables you will enjoy this charming middle grade fantasy book. Throughout the story the author gives subtle nods to the classic story, Anne of Green Gables, through setting, characters and a few plot points but this book is not a copy of the original story but has its own enchanting tale of magic which I loved. The main character Grace is every bit as charming as Anne with her imaginative and chatty personality and her ability to find adventure among everyday life. A perfect read for anyone who sees the magic in the world around them.

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