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53 pages 1 hour read

The Wishing Spell

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2012

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Book Brief

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Chris Colfer

The Wishing Spell

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

438

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Fairy-tale world • Timeless

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

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Super Short Summary

In The Wishing Spell by Chris Colfer, twins Alex and Conner Baily are transported into a fairy-tale world through their grandmother's book. They embark on an adventure to collect magical items for the Wishing Spell, their only way home, while encountering beloved fairy-tale characters. Their journey is complicated by the Evil Queen, who also seeks the spell for personal reasons.

Adventurous

Fantastical

Exciting

Playful

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.5

156,504 ratings

82%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Wishing Spell by Chris Colfer offers an engaging fairy-tale adventure that appeals to middle-grade readers with its imaginative plot and relatable protagonists. While praised for its creativity and humor, some critics find the writing style simplistic and the pacing uneven. Nevertheless, its charm and entertainment value make it a popular choice among young readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Wishing Spell?

Fans of The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell by Chris Colfer will likely enjoy stories like Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling and The Sisters Grimm by Michael Buckley. Readers who appreciate blending fairy-tale elements with modern adventures, strong sibling dynamics, and clever reinterpretations of classic tales will find this series enchanting.

4.5

156,504 ratings

82%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Alex Bailey

One of the protagonists, Alex is a smart and organized girl with blond hair kept neatly with a headband. She has a close connection to fairy-tale characters and follows rules closely.

The second protagonist, Conner is Alex’s twin, known for his popularity and willingness to bend rules. He is honest and often provides unique solutions to problems.

The story's antagonist with a complex backstory. She has faced years of grief and is motivated by the desire to free someone she deeply cares for.

A character cursed into a frog form, he lives in isolation until meeting Alex and Conner. His journey involves overcoming his shame about his appearance.

A classic fairy-tale character Alex and Conner encounter, known for her pale skin and dark hair. Her actions illuminate the complexity of her past experiences.

Another fairy-tale character Alex and Conner meet, she is known for her elegance and newfound sense of humor. Her story highlights unexpressed aspects of her personality.

A character on the run due to her encounter with the bears. Her story has been shaped by unexpected events from her past.

A young man known from the beanstalk tale, he finds himself in a love situation complicated by external feuds. He represents a spin on the traditional prince archetype.

A very pretty young woman who tries to gain Jack's attention. Her character challenges the notion that beauty alone leads to success.

A fairy-tale character dealing with the aftermath of her sleeping curse. Her dedication to her kingdom and its people is evident.

Both a love interest of the Evil Queen and the Magic Mirror. Mira’s role affects the dynamics of the queen's story.

A pivotal influence in Alex and Conner’s lives, she is seen as a hardworking single parent who molds her children's personalities.

Connects the real world and fairy-tale world, setting the stage for significant events. Her actions have long-lasting consequences.

Though deceased, he influences the story through his journal and past actions related to the Wishing Spell. His history is integral to their journey.

Book Details
Pages

438

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Fairy-tale world • Timeless

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

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