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Nevermoor #2
Wundersmith: The Calling of Morrigan Crow
Wunder is gathering in Nevermoor ...
Morrigan Crow may have defeated her deadly curse, passed the dangerous trials and joined the mystical Wundrous Society, but her journey into Nevermoor and all its secrets has only just begun. And she is fast learning that not all magic is used for good.
Morrigan Crow has been invited to join the prestigious Wundrous Society, a place that promised her friendship, protection and belonging for life. She's hoping for an education full of wunder, imagination and discovery - but all the Society want to teach her is how evil Wundersmiths are. And someone is blackmailing Morrigan's unit, turning her last few loyal friends against her. Has Morrigan escaped from being the cursed child of Wintersea only to become the most hated figure in Nevermoor?
Worst of all, people have started to go missing. The fantastical city of Nevermoor, once a place of magic and safety, is now riddled with fear and suspicion...
Morrigan Crow may have defeated her deadly curse, passed the dangerous trials and joined the mystical Wundrous Society, but her journey into Nevermoor and all its secrets has only just begun. And she is fast learning that not all magic is used for good.
Morrigan Crow has been invited to join the prestigious Wundrous Society, a place that promised her friendship, protection and belonging for life. She's hoping for an education full of wunder, imagination and discovery - but all the Society want to teach her is how evil Wundersmiths are. And someone is blackmailing Morrigan's unit, turning her last few loyal friends against her. Has Morrigan escaped from being the cursed child of Wintersea only to become the most hated figure in Nevermoor?
Worst of all, people have started to go missing. The fantastical city of Nevermoor, once a place of magic and safety, is now riddled with fear and suspicion...
467 pages, Paperback
First published October 30, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,892 reviews
January 4, 2019
4.5 Stars! Review to come! I adored this sequel.
August 30, 2020
1.) Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow ★★★★★
This is just such a perfect story about finding your safe places in the world, and also escaping people's expectations of you, while also feeling a sense of belonging. I just love Morrigan so much, and this truly feels like a once in a lifetime series. The power of a little magic, a lot of friendship, and all the unconditional love.
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This is just such a perfect story about finding your safe places in the world, and also escaping people's expectations of you, while also feeling a sense of belonging. I just love Morrigan so much, and this truly feels like a once in a lifetime series. The power of a little magic, a lot of friendship, and all the unconditional love.
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May 23, 2022
"Listen, I know I'm Mr. Cool-Guy Laidback Relaxington and all that..."
Review of Book 1
"Mum says dirt's good for the immune system."
Since everything that was good about the first book is still applicable here, thought of linking that review instead of repeating everything. The Calling of Morrigan Crow is an excellent continuation of that wonderful first book, taking us through the first 'official' year of Morrigan at Wunsoc. The storyline is still quite short, giving the feeling that this is in fact the second half of the first book, but I'm glad that Townsend's not pushing things too far, and taking it at a steady pace.
By the end of this book, readers are going to have a solid foundation to wherever the author decides to take us in future. Hopefully, it would be a long and equally adventurous journey!
"What remains of lost history - the stuff people remember longest - is usually the worst of it."
Review of Book 1
"Mum says dirt's good for the immune system."
Since everything that was good about the first book is still applicable here, thought of linking that review instead of repeating everything. The Calling of Morrigan Crow is an excellent continuation of that wonderful first book, taking us through the first 'official' year of Morrigan at Wunsoc. The storyline is still quite short, giving the feeling that this is in fact the second half of the first book, but I'm glad that Townsend's not pushing things too far, and taking it at a steady pace.
By the end of this book, readers are going to have a solid foundation to wherever the author decides to take us in future. Hopefully, it would be a long and equally adventurous journey!
"What remains of lost history - the stuff people remember longest - is usually the worst of it."
January 26, 2021
i’m honestly overwhelmed by how good this series is!
1/25/21: re-read and just as in love
1/25/21: re-read and just as in love
January 7, 2019
I just love this series so much!!!
November 13, 2018
Wow, this was brilliant fun and in my opinion even better than the first in the series. I think this one gave me all those nostalgic feelings of when I first read Harry Potter, and I couldn't help but to fall in love with the world once again and get emotionally invested in the characters. There was so much to like in this book, and Morrigan's story felt a bit darker and the stakes were higher too. I think if you like the first you will love the second!
This book continues where the first one leaves off. After some troublesome trials in book 1 we know that many of the students were dropped without a chance of making it to the Wonderous Society, but now it is time for the ones who have made it to go to WunSoc and learn about just what they can do.
Morrigan is still very much unsure about her Knack and what she needs to learn about it as time goes on, but she quickly realises that although there are some firm friends who support her, she needs to earn the loyalty of those others in her group. She is forced to attend some mind-numbingly boring classes and yet she is also expected to keep her magic under wraps, and she has to do all of this whilst her guardian is once more absent for most of the book. Also, there's a whole lot of people disappearing strangely and she is more than likely going to get mixed up in the trouble because trouble just seems to find her...
What I loved about this was seeing the streets that changed as you went down them and the markets which were filled with magic and mayhem. There are seasonal celebrations, festivals, dramatic events and wondrous surprises that Morrigan can barely believe. Nevermoor has so many secrets to offer if you can just start to understand it and believe in it, and this is the real beginning of Morrigan's time to explore.
Overall, the plot and the magic were great and the characters became even better in this one too. I thoroughly enjoyed this and read it all in two sittings, and I highly recommend this as one to just lose yourself in for an evening. The magic will give you Harry Potter nostalgia, but the story is unique and wonderful too. 5*s from me :)
This book continues where the first one leaves off. After some troublesome trials in book 1 we know that many of the students were dropped without a chance of making it to the Wonderous Society, but now it is time for the ones who have made it to go to WunSoc and learn about just what they can do.
Morrigan is still very much unsure about her Knack and what she needs to learn about it as time goes on, but she quickly realises that although there are some firm friends who support her, she needs to earn the loyalty of those others in her group. She is forced to attend some mind-numbingly boring classes and yet she is also expected to keep her magic under wraps, and she has to do all of this whilst her guardian is once more absent for most of the book. Also, there's a whole lot of people disappearing strangely and she is more than likely going to get mixed up in the trouble because trouble just seems to find her...
What I loved about this was seeing the streets that changed as you went down them and the markets which were filled with magic and mayhem. There are seasonal celebrations, festivals, dramatic events and wondrous surprises that Morrigan can barely believe. Nevermoor has so many secrets to offer if you can just start to understand it and believe in it, and this is the real beginning of Morrigan's time to explore.
Overall, the plot and the magic were great and the characters became even better in this one too. I thoroughly enjoyed this and read it all in two sittings, and I highly recommend this as one to just lose yourself in for an evening. The magic will give you Harry Potter nostalgia, but the story is unique and wonderful too. 5*s from me :)
June 4, 2024
2021: 4,5/5
2022: 5/5
2024: 5/5
2022: 5/5
2024: 5/5
January 5, 2023
Seria życia. Pozdrawiam Doktor Book
January 10, 2020
I think I liked this better than the first one!
It's magical and funny, it has charming characters and the world building is super interesting. I wish we'd get a little more of it though. Excited for the third installment!
It's magical and funny, it has charming characters and the world building is super interesting. I wish we'd get a little more of it though. Excited for the third installment!
February 24, 2019
What can I say except I LOVE THIS SERIES.
Once again, Townsend pulls you into a world of wunder and whimsy, and doesn't let go. We follow Morrigan as she begins classes as the Wundrous Society, and follow her on a journey about belonging and finding yourself.
Like many of the great classics of children's literature, Townsend plays with the fallibility of adults. What do you do when the people who are supposed to look out for you, to know what to do when faced with challenges, aren't there to help? What do you do when well-meaning adults make choices that ultimately harm you or your friends? What do you do when those with power actively wield that power in harmful ways? Townsend explores these questions with care and nuance.
I love that in a book about inclusivity and belonging, Townsend has clearly taken the time to craft a world that is itself inclusive. We see a diverse range of characters, and that diversity never feels shoehorned in. We also don't get any of that, "Well, I never said Hermione wasn't Black!" retcon nonsense--characters of color are described as such, made plain in the text. All children deserve to feel seen in the stories they consume, and it's lovely to see a book that puts in the effort to include representation.
As a sequel, this is fantastic. The world is expanded, the stakes are raised, and it has a distinctly darker tone than the first book. The well-meaning adults feel more insidious, the villain is more villainous.
I can't wait for this serious to continue.
Once again, Townsend pulls you into a world of wunder and whimsy, and doesn't let go. We follow Morrigan as she begins classes as the Wundrous Society, and follow her on a journey about belonging and finding yourself.
Like many of the great classics of children's literature, Townsend plays with the fallibility of adults. What do you do when the people who are supposed to look out for you, to know what to do when faced with challenges, aren't there to help? What do you do when well-meaning adults make choices that ultimately harm you or your friends? What do you do when those with power actively wield that power in harmful ways? Townsend explores these questions with care and nuance.
I love that in a book about inclusivity and belonging, Townsend has clearly taken the time to craft a world that is itself inclusive. We see a diverse range of characters, and that diversity never feels shoehorned in. We also don't get any of that, "Well, I never said Hermione wasn't Black!" retcon nonsense--characters of color are described as such, made plain in the text. All children deserve to feel seen in the stories they consume, and it's lovely to see a book that puts in the effort to include representation.
As a sequel, this is fantastic. The world is expanded, the stakes are raised, and it has a distinctly darker tone than the first book. The well-meaning adults feel more insidious, the villain is more villainous.
I can't wait for this serious to continue.
April 15, 2022
Kocham Morysię 🥺 kocham właściwie każdą postać. Ta seria to złoto.
August 25, 2022
3.5⭐
Similarly as the first book, I am not fully invested in the characters and story but I know that this is a good book. It has good bones. I just need to come back to again at a later date. That's how it is with me with characters most of the time. I don't attach right away. Like with Six of Crows. I gave it 4 stars the first time I read it. But upon reread, I gave it 5 stars and considered it a favorite of all time. I needed to fall in love with the characters first.
Similarly as the first book, I am not fully invested in the characters and story but I know that this is a good book. It has good bones. I just need to come back to again at a later date. That's how it is with me with characters most of the time. I don't attach right away. Like with Six of Crows. I gave it 4 stars the first time I read it. But upon reread, I gave it 5 stars and considered it a favorite of all time. I needed to fall in love with the characters first.
November 8, 2018
Nine young people in Morrigan Crow’s unit – nine who had said under oath to be friends, be loyal to each other. Morrigan was thrilled to finally have a family; to have people who cared about her. When they all began their classes, the students had ingenious and exciting things to learn – all except Morrigan, whose teacher would concentrate on Wundersmith’s alone – and how evil and degraded they all were, both past and present. Morrigan’s patron, Jupiter North, did all he could to change the Elder’s minds about her classes, but they wouldn’t be budged…
When first one, then another went missing, Jupiter was away, searching constantly. His nephew Jack was occasionally by Morrigan’s side – when his schooling allowed – as was her best friend Hawthorne. But with the blackmailing threats focused on Morrigan’s group, she feared she would have no one left by her side. Everyone blamed her for the misfortunes that were happening – what could she do? And what had Ezra Squall to do with it all? The fear rippling through Nevermoor was infiltrating everyone.
Wow! What.A.Ride!! Wundersmith is the second in the Nevermoor series by Aussie author Jessica Townsend, and it is just as fantastical and exciting as the first. Fast paced with loads of action, plenty of magic and heart stopping tension, Wundersmith is one I highly recommend. But I also suggest Nevermoor be read first so the full benefit of the series is felt.
With thanks to Hachette AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
When first one, then another went missing, Jupiter was away, searching constantly. His nephew Jack was occasionally by Morrigan’s side – when his schooling allowed – as was her best friend Hawthorne. But with the blackmailing threats focused on Morrigan’s group, she feared she would have no one left by her side. Everyone blamed her for the misfortunes that were happening – what could she do? And what had Ezra Squall to do with it all? The fear rippling through Nevermoor was infiltrating everyone.
Wow! What.A.Ride!! Wundersmith is the second in the Nevermoor series by Aussie author Jessica Townsend, and it is just as fantastical and exciting as the first. Fast paced with loads of action, plenty of magic and heart stopping tension, Wundersmith is one I highly recommend. But I also suggest Nevermoor be read first so the full benefit of the series is felt.
With thanks to Hachette AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
April 9, 2019
I am loving this series so much. This second installment was a blast and a half. It definitely continues to have some Harry Potter vibes with horrible teachers, a fantastical carriage/common room, a missing cat (Mrs. Norris?), a Malfoy-and-others-type group of bullies, and Morrigan being a parselmouth... *cough* I mean... lol enemies of the heir beware! But it is it's own story with tons of adventures for Morrigan and her classmates that keep you engaged and thoroughly entertained. My favorites were the alleys that changed as you went down them. Very twisty and unpredictable. I'm eager to get my hands on the third book!
December 3, 2018
Five glorious stars. I’m obsessed.
April 3, 2019
Number two in the series and a great follow up to Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow. The author advanced all the characters and the main story line but still left plenty hanging to keep our interest open for the next book.
Jessica Townsend writes well. These are really middle grade children's books but they still stand up for an adult reader. There is plenty of action as Morrigan begins to come into her powers. She is a little bit prone to throwing herself into situations she has been warned about, regardless of her own or anyone else's danger but I guess if she was more sensible the story would not be so much fun.
I am really looking forward to the next book now. We need to see Morrigan really rocking that Wunder and dealing with all the baddies once and for all. And we definitely need more dragons. I am hoping Hawthorne is building them up for a big battle scene. Whatever happens I know it will be good - can't wait!
Jessica Townsend writes well. These are really middle grade children's books but they still stand up for an adult reader. There is plenty of action as Morrigan begins to come into her powers. She is a little bit prone to throwing herself into situations she has been warned about, regardless of her own or anyone else's danger but I guess if she was more sensible the story would not be so much fun.
I am really looking forward to the next book now. We need to see Morrigan really rocking that Wunder and dealing with all the baddies once and for all. And we definitely need more dragons. I am hoping Hawthorne is building them up for a big battle scene. Whatever happens I know it will be good - can't wait!
April 24, 2019
In this follow up to the highly original Nevermoor, Jessica Townsend continues the adventures of Morrigan Crow as she is admitted into the Wundrous society and sent to the Wundrous Society headquarters to receive her education along with the other successful applicants. While everyone else in her group is doing really interesting subjects, Morrigan is frustrated that the society doesn't seem to want her to learn anything useful. Jupiter is too distracted to help her as he is busy looking for a number of missing people and creatures and doesn't realise that she might be in danger.
This is a series that will delight children and parents alike as Morrigan navigates her way through trying to do make friends, and do the right thing which sometimes means disobeying the rules and getting into dangerous situations. The characters are developing well and the stage is now set for Morrigan to develop as a Wundersmith and to have a showdown with the evil Ezra Squall.
This is a series that will delight children and parents alike as Morrigan navigates her way through trying to do make friends, and do the right thing which sometimes means disobeying the rules and getting into dangerous situations. The characters are developing well and the stage is now set for Morrigan to develop as a Wundersmith and to have a showdown with the evil Ezra Squall.
September 15, 2020
Hach... vom Inhalt her kann ich bei einem zweiten Teil natürlich nicht viel sagen.
Trotzdem weiterhin meine Empfehlung für diese Reihe! Auch Band 2 hat mich auf jeder Seite wieder begeistert und ich war nach nur wenigen Zeilen wieder in der Welt von Morrigan Crow, Nevermoor und jetzt auch der Wundrous Society (Wie heisst sie auf deutsch eigentlich?). Ich liebe Jessica Townsends Schreibstil: So wunderschön beschreibend und eindringlich, dass man mitten drin ist und alles gut nachvollziehen kann. Trotzdem auf keiner Seite langatmig oder gar langweilig. Es passiert immer etwas und man fliegt durch die Seiten, dass man alles um sich herum vergisst - Besonders die Zeit :)
Die Message ist toll, die magische Welt ganz besonders und die Charaktere habe ich alle so fest in mein Herz geschlossen, dass ich jetzt schon die Tage zähle, bis Band 3 in meinen Händen liegt!
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15.09.2020 - Re-Read
Das englische Hörbuch ist super vertont und hat so viel Freude gemacht. Jetzt bin ich perfekt vorbereitet auf Band 3, der hoffentlich bald bei mir eintrifft!
Trotzdem weiterhin meine Empfehlung für diese Reihe! Auch Band 2 hat mich auf jeder Seite wieder begeistert und ich war nach nur wenigen Zeilen wieder in der Welt von Morrigan Crow, Nevermoor und jetzt auch der Wundrous Society (Wie heisst sie auf deutsch eigentlich?). Ich liebe Jessica Townsends Schreibstil: So wunderschön beschreibend und eindringlich, dass man mitten drin ist und alles gut nachvollziehen kann. Trotzdem auf keiner Seite langatmig oder gar langweilig. Es passiert immer etwas und man fliegt durch die Seiten, dass man alles um sich herum vergisst - Besonders die Zeit :)
Die Message ist toll, die magische Welt ganz besonders und die Charaktere habe ich alle so fest in mein Herz geschlossen, dass ich jetzt schon die Tage zähle, bis Band 3 in meinen Händen liegt!
---------------------
15.09.2020 - Re-Read
Das englische Hörbuch ist super vertont und hat so viel Freude gemacht. Jetzt bin ich perfekt vorbereitet auf Band 3, der hoffentlich bald bei mir eintrifft!
January 30, 2019
I've just finished this book and I'm struggling to figure out the best way to sum up just how much I loved it. I can say with confidence that the Nevermoor series has already earned it's place amongst my favourite books. I adore Morrigan Crow, she is such a wonderful character, but it's not just her, it's Jupiter, Hawthorne, Fenestra, the hotel, the brilliantly crafted world that Jessica Townsend is sharing.
I'm so excited for the next one (release date unknown), but in the meantime, I wouldn't be surprised if the two that are currently out get at least one reread! 😺📖
I'm so excited for the next one (release date unknown), but in the meantime, I wouldn't be surprised if the two that are currently out get at least one reread! 😺📖
February 16, 2019
This was SO GOOD!!! Seriously -- ALL THE STARS!!! *Insert unending heart eyes here*
February 22, 2021
A solid continuation, feeling much more distinct from Harry Potter than it's predecessor
I have no time for childish problems. Should any arise, you will either take them up with your unit conductor, or squash them deep down in the pit of your soul where they shall no longer bother you. Have I made myself clear?
Jessica Townsend again managed to create a bubbling and fun book, focussing on the first year of Morrigan in school. Townsend even managed to write so convincing that I had a high tea this weekend, just inspired by the high tea Morrigan needs as comfort food after her first week at school :-)
The sweetness level in general in terms of the story and supporting adults is a bit toned down, with both quite harsh confrontations with fellow students (and even her own unit) and ghastly headmistresses. The museum at the end is a really creepy idea, the developing relationship between the kids is nicely done (with Jack suddenly quite a bit warmer than in The Trials of Morrigan Crow) and there are enough tantalising strings that still require a follow up story. We even get to see the Nevermoor Bazar, a magical combination of the internet in real life with a food court blended into it.
The only criticism I could raise is that the number of rememberable new characters is limited, with Miltman being an exception. Still very keen to see how Townsend manages to develop the story of Nevermoor further in Hollowpox: The Hunt for Morrigan Crow!
I have no time for childish problems. Should any arise, you will either take them up with your unit conductor, or squash them deep down in the pit of your soul where they shall no longer bother you. Have I made myself clear?
Jessica Townsend again managed to create a bubbling and fun book, focussing on the first year of Morrigan in school. Townsend even managed to write so convincing that I had a high tea this weekend, just inspired by the high tea Morrigan needs as comfort food after her first week at school :-)
The sweetness level in general in terms of the story and supporting adults is a bit toned down, with both quite harsh confrontations with fellow students (and even her own unit) and ghastly headmistresses. The museum at the end is a really creepy idea, the developing relationship between the kids is nicely done (with Jack suddenly quite a bit warmer than in The Trials of Morrigan Crow) and there are enough tantalising strings that still require a follow up story. We even get to see the Nevermoor Bazar, a magical combination of the internet in real life with a food court blended into it.
The only criticism I could raise is that the number of rememberable new characters is limited, with Miltman being an exception. Still very keen to see how Townsend manages to develop the story of Nevermoor further in Hollowpox: The Hunt for Morrigan Crow!
July 16, 2024
The second book in the Nevermoor series and I think it was slightly better than the first, it was really good fun. Loneliness is such a huge part of this book and it's such an important message. Exclusion is also part of this book, being an outsider and dealing with peoples negativity around you not just from other young people but from adults only.
This is a middle grade so the writing is a little more basic and less lyrical or whimsical than I usually prefer. Having said that the descriptions in this book are so good, from the world building to character descriptions you really feel like your in another world. I think this is one of the reasons people compare it to Harry Potter, the descriptions can seem quite familiar and especially the description around food.
There are few stand out characters for me, Ms Cheery I really love I think she is described so well not just the way she looks but her nurturing 'mother bear' nature too. Jupiter however would infuriate me so much he is way too all over the place. I like the main character enough but I don't feel the biggest connection to her unfortunately.
I like that we learnt more about the world as a whole in this book and there were some really nice additions in the world building and magic complexity. We also have more insight into the other children in the world and what their knacks are and how they work which was really fun. The school setting was well done but I think it could have been better.
For a middle grade I do think the pacing is a little slow. I will be carrying on with series and I am looking forward to the next book.
This is a middle grade so the writing is a little more basic and less lyrical or whimsical than I usually prefer. Having said that the descriptions in this book are so good, from the world building to character descriptions you really feel like your in another world. I think this is one of the reasons people compare it to Harry Potter, the descriptions can seem quite familiar and especially the description around food.
There are few stand out characters for me, Ms Cheery I really love I think she is described so well not just the way she looks but her nurturing 'mother bear' nature too. Jupiter however would infuriate me so much he is way too all over the place. I like the main character enough but I don't feel the biggest connection to her unfortunately.
I like that we learnt more about the world as a whole in this book and there were some really nice additions in the world building and magic complexity. We also have more insight into the other children in the world and what their knacks are and how they work which was really fun. The school setting was well done but I think it could have been better.
For a middle grade I do think the pacing is a little slow. I will be carrying on with series and I am looking forward to the next book.
September 10, 2020
Update 8/9:
I laughed, I cried, I relistened to certain chapters because they’re so fun or whimsical. Either way, still a perfect book.
Update 7/11:
Gemma Whelan does it again! She is such a stunning narrator and truly captures the magic and whimsy of this series. Her voice talents are unparalleled in her ability to voice such a variety of characters. I can’t wait to listen to this again before the release of Hollowpox.
Original review:
This goes as no surprise to anyone who has had to listen to me talk about how much I loved the first book, but guess what? I LOVE THE SECOND ONE JUST AS MUCH.
Why? Because it’s magicalfunwhimsicalwittyandstupendouslyamazing! Yeah. You read that right. It’s one word good.
Morrigan is now a junior member of Wunsoc and while she thought the trials ended last year she’s come to find out more await her. There’s blackmail, disappearances, a boooooooooooooring class schedule, dragons, the black market, and epic parties.
There’s is so much fun and whimsy to be had with this novel and honestly ya just gotta buy it! It’s wunderful.
I laughed, I cried, I relistened to certain chapters because they’re so fun or whimsical. Either way, still a perfect book.
Update 7/11:
Gemma Whelan does it again! She is such a stunning narrator and truly captures the magic and whimsy of this series. Her voice talents are unparalleled in her ability to voice such a variety of characters. I can’t wait to listen to this again before the release of Hollowpox.
Original review:
This goes as no surprise to anyone who has had to listen to me talk about how much I loved the first book, but guess what? I LOVE THE SECOND ONE JUST AS MUCH.
Why? Because it’s magicalfunwhimsicalwittyandstupendouslyamazing! Yeah. You read that right. It’s one word good.
Morrigan is now a junior member of Wunsoc and while she thought the trials ended last year she’s come to find out more await her. There’s blackmail, disappearances, a boooooooooooooring class schedule, dragons, the black market, and epic parties.
There’s is so much fun and whimsy to be had with this novel and honestly ya just gotta buy it! It’s wunderful.
January 29, 2019
The adorable quirky tales of Ms. Morrigan Crow continue...and her adventures get even more exciting...
After having barely passed her trials, Mog is left confused and bewildered. Saying anything more about the finale of the first book or elaborating further on the title of this book, will amount to revealing spoilers for the first book. So, I'll keep mum.
This book gives more reasons to the reader to draw parallels with Harry Potter. The stand-offs with the adversary, questioning one's own goodness, and an outlandishly faithful, loyal and protective parental figure will stir all those feelings inside you.
But, for me, I consider HP as the trope that the Nevermoor exploits and masters beautifully!
And the fact, that I can forget my adult problems and be a child again while in this whimsically crafted universe is a reason enough for me to read each and every book in the series that are yet to come out.
Oh, and...
4.5 stars
:)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
There is something so uniquely endearing about this series, that even in the middle of a horrible reading slump, I flew through this in ONE DAY...
Full RTC.. :)
After having barely passed her trials, Mog is left confused and bewildered. Saying anything more about the finale of the first book or elaborating further on the title of this book, will amount to revealing spoilers for the first book. So, I'll keep mum.
This book gives more reasons to the reader to draw parallels with Harry Potter. The stand-offs with the adversary, questioning one's own goodness, and an outlandishly faithful, loyal and protective parental figure will stir all those feelings inside you.
But, for me, I consider HP as the trope that the Nevermoor exploits and masters beautifully!
And the fact, that I can forget my adult problems and be a child again while in this whimsically crafted universe is a reason enough for me to read each and every book in the series that are yet to come out.
Oh, and...
4.5 stars
:)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
There is something so uniquely endearing about this series, that even in the middle of a horrible reading slump, I flew through this in ONE DAY...
Full RTC.. :)
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March 31, 2023
I powered through and finished this [LOVED it] even though my heart couldn't handle the bullying and the injustice of some of the plotlines.
That said, I totally figured out the plot twist about the blackmailing ;)
Finally putting those Agatha-Christie-plot-reveals to good use!
That said, I totally figured out the plot twist about the blackmailing ;)
Finally putting those Agatha-Christie-plot-reveals to good use!
November 19, 2020
Magic schools and wondrous knacks make for an outstanding children's story in Jessica Townsend's follow up to The Trials of Morrigan Crow. As an illustrious new member of the Wunderous Society, Morrigan must face new challenges and new tests in her journey to uncover the mystery behind missing Arcanes, while also getting her new classmates to like her. Not such an easy task when they're terrified of your knack.
I loved this. Not only is it wonderfully written, filled with all the magical joy and excitement I want in a children's story, but also featuring complicated and we'll developed characters. Morrigan is still struggling with who she is, and coming out of a horrible childhood where she wasn't wanted. Several times, when things go wrong, she blames herself. She's hiding herself, and this is bolstered by the WunSoc also trying to hide her away. I loved seeing her come out of this shell and discovering herself and experience life and realising she's special. I also love all of her unit. Each character has a special knack, something that makes them different and I liked exploring each of them. I particularly loved Cadence and Hawthorne and their growing friendship. No matter what Morrigan does, Hawthorne takes it in his stride and knows she's a good person. In many respects he keeps her grounded and allows her to explore herself. Cadence is the friend who will push Morrigan outside of her comfort zone, knowing she can handle it. In the background, as a constant if chaotic father figure is Jupiter North. Charismatic, ginger, good natured. He's rather wonderful.
The story and plot are also so well done. There's a running mystery throughout involving missing people, but we also get a better look at the world of Nevermoor and all its tricks. There are strange passageways, unusual corridors and a subterranean school all waiting to be discovered. At no point did I feel the plot dragged, and I was fully invested in this world and characters. The pacing is fantastic, skipping from adventure to reveal and beyond managing to balance that fine line between action and rest without it ever feeling like a chore.
This series just seems to get better and better, as we delve deeper into the mythology of Nevermoor and examine hints of greater machinations in the background. Morrigan has a lot on her young shoulders, and it doesn't look like it's going to let up for her any time soon. And I can't wait to see what's next.
I loved this. Not only is it wonderfully written, filled with all the magical joy and excitement I want in a children's story, but also featuring complicated and we'll developed characters. Morrigan is still struggling with who she is, and coming out of a horrible childhood where she wasn't wanted. Several times, when things go wrong, she blames herself. She's hiding herself, and this is bolstered by the WunSoc also trying to hide her away. I loved seeing her come out of this shell and discovering herself and experience life and realising she's special. I also love all of her unit. Each character has a special knack, something that makes them different and I liked exploring each of them. I particularly loved Cadence and Hawthorne and their growing friendship. No matter what Morrigan does, Hawthorne takes it in his stride and knows she's a good person. In many respects he keeps her grounded and allows her to explore herself. Cadence is the friend who will push Morrigan outside of her comfort zone, knowing she can handle it. In the background, as a constant if chaotic father figure is Jupiter North. Charismatic, ginger, good natured. He's rather wonderful.
The story and plot are also so well done. There's a running mystery throughout involving missing people, but we also get a better look at the world of Nevermoor and all its tricks. There are strange passageways, unusual corridors and a subterranean school all waiting to be discovered. At no point did I feel the plot dragged, and I was fully invested in this world and characters. The pacing is fantastic, skipping from adventure to reveal and beyond managing to balance that fine line between action and rest without it ever feeling like a chore.
This series just seems to get better and better, as we delve deeper into the mythology of Nevermoor and examine hints of greater machinations in the background. Morrigan has a lot on her young shoulders, and it doesn't look like it's going to let up for her any time soon. And I can't wait to see what's next.
November 20, 2020
5 Sterne, was auch sonst?!
Band 2 hat mir noch besser gefallen als der Auftakt der Reihe (und Band 1 war schon herausragend!)
Jessica Townsend vereint in dieser Reihe einfach wunderbar bunte Figuren mit einer magischen Welt, deren Einfallsreichtum an vielen Stellen nur mit staunend aufgerissenen Augen auszuhalten ist (das wundersame Hotel Deucalion, die teils surreale Stadt, die detailreich beschriebene Schule uvm.)
Während der Erzählton ganz gut zur Zielgruppe von Kinderbüchern passt, werden auch reifere und teilweise richtig gefährliche Themen miterzählt. So werden kindliche Leser*innen nicht für dumm verkauft und auch erwachsene Leser*innen können wunderbar zwischen den Zeilen lesen.
Besonders beeindruckend fand ich, wie Townsend das Thema „Akzeptanz“ eingewoben hat. Akzeptanz von sich selbst, mit allen vermeintlichen Ecken und Kanten; aber auch fehlende oder wenigstens wachsende Akzeptanz durch andere.
Zum Schluss habe ich ein paar Tränchen verdrückt, loyale Freunde (fiktional oder real) zwingen mich einfach immer in die Knie. Jetzt freue ich mich auf Band 3, die Leserunde dazu steht schon in den Startlöchern :)
Band 2 hat mir noch besser gefallen als der Auftakt der Reihe (und Band 1 war schon herausragend!)
Jessica Townsend vereint in dieser Reihe einfach wunderbar bunte Figuren mit einer magischen Welt, deren Einfallsreichtum an vielen Stellen nur mit staunend aufgerissenen Augen auszuhalten ist (das wundersame Hotel Deucalion, die teils surreale Stadt, die detailreich beschriebene Schule uvm.)
Während der Erzählton ganz gut zur Zielgruppe von Kinderbüchern passt, werden auch reifere und teilweise richtig gefährliche Themen miterzählt. So werden kindliche Leser*innen nicht für dumm verkauft und auch erwachsene Leser*innen können wunderbar zwischen den Zeilen lesen.
Besonders beeindruckend fand ich, wie Townsend das Thema „Akzeptanz“ eingewoben hat. Akzeptanz von sich selbst, mit allen vermeintlichen Ecken und Kanten; aber auch fehlende oder wenigstens wachsende Akzeptanz durch andere.
Zum Schluss habe ich ein paar Tränchen verdrückt, loyale Freunde (fiktional oder real) zwingen mich einfach immer in die Knie. Jetzt freue ich mich auf Band 3, die Leserunde dazu steht schon in den Startlöchern :)
May 24, 2020
2.5 stars
I have read enough really amazing middle grade fiction to know that this isn’t it.
Am I being harsh? Possibly. But just because something is meant for 10-year-olds, doesn’t mean literary dignity has to suffer. So let’s dissect.
This book/series is entertaining. I won’t deny that considering I liked the first one enough to pick up this one. But I think the obvious issues bursting at the seams of the first book were a lot more difficult to blatantly ignore after reading the second.
1. This series lacks an overarching theme. What is the point??? What is the broad external conflict? There doesn’t seem to be one. This series gets frequently compared to Harry Potter, but the most obvious difference is that HP presents the reader with a general conflict and arc. Voldemort is bad; he wants to kill Harry/everyone. Simple enough. It gets more complicated later, but that general plot point is a thread throughout. In Nevermoor??? I don’t know! Both books allude to something, but not really. I can’t elaborate without spoiling, but I will say that so far, I can’t really understand what I’m supposed to be afraid of. (I’ll explain further down below in a spoiler section if you so choose to care.)
2. The world-building is TERRIBLE. Actually, no. It’s nonexistent. Without a rich world forming the foundation, you have nothing. Like a body devoid of nutrients, this installment slugged its way through this lackluster plot, fueled only by the sugary confection Townsend allowed it have. This series is the equivalent of hiring a contractor to build a house, but instead of describing how you want the blueprint of the house to look, you instead spend several hours detailing exactly what kind of carpet you want in the third bedroom and the specific paint finish you want on the ornate bathroom mirror. Like, yes, Jessica, your descriptions are lovely and whimsical, but unless I understand even the most basic structure of the world you’ve created, I’m just treading water in the ocean at midnight without even the moon for guidance.
3. Predictable. To the point of boredom. Children’s literature doesn’t have to be this way! I don’t care what you say, I’m right about this.
4. The Characters. Blegh. Ugh. Wow. Each one was either completely forgotten, peppered in sparingly when convenient, a caricature devoid of reality, and/or a cheap Harry Potter knock-off. I don’t have anything else to say about that.
5. The nefarious undertones aren’t actually nefarious. Townsend clearly wanted to include villainous plot points and characters, and I support and admire that. The problem is that she did it badly. When something dark or sinister happens, it almost feels like a(n unintended) joke. Something bad happens, and the characters agree that it’s bad. But then all of the sudden, it’s not that bad. And then everyone laughs and throws an extravagant party. Rinse and repeat.
There’s a weird dynamic between the darkness she wants to explore and the humor she uses to lighten it; unfortunately, it doesn’t quite reach the “dark humor” level most authors reach for, or the balancing act used in Harry Potter. It’s more like a splotchy tie dye job rather than smoothly melted together. And listen, I’m all for using caricatures of people to explore dark humor (shout out to Lemony Snicket), but this does not meet the mark.
Overall, I’m willing to continue this series because I see potential in its charm, and I’m not that much of a heartless bitch. Or so I tell myself.
*SPOILERS*
Okay so I have a few more things to say about this lack of a theme nonsense. Obviously the first two novels are about three things:
1) Morrigan’s internal conflict of insecurity, paranoia, and mild self-loathing
2) Morrigan’s external conflict with those who dislike her
3) Morrigan’s external conflict with the Wundersmith, Ezra Squall
And that’s fine. These are adequate conflicts in theory. The problem is that we can already tell by this second novel that the first two conflicts are on their way to being resolved, so that only leaves the last to be the thread that ties the series together. And the problem with that is that it SUCKS! There is no real conflict with Ezra Squall. Like, sure, he’s sort of evil and sometimes murders people. But all he wants to do with Mog is educate her. I must say, this is a kind of refreshing turn of events in that complicates his character...but... well...who’s the villain then??? He alludes to a greater enemy at the end of this novel, but it just doesn’t cut it. It’s either way too late or way too soon to add this plot twist. It should either be in the first book, or added in the last one. It puts a tear in the cohesion of the series.
Alright. I’m finally done. This amount of review for a children’s fantasy novel is only a little bit embarrassing. Please continue with your day.
I have read enough really amazing middle grade fiction to know that this isn’t it.
Am I being harsh? Possibly. But just because something is meant for 10-year-olds, doesn’t mean literary dignity has to suffer. So let’s dissect.
This book/series is entertaining. I won’t deny that considering I liked the first one enough to pick up this one. But I think the obvious issues bursting at the seams of the first book were a lot more difficult to blatantly ignore after reading the second.
1. This series lacks an overarching theme. What is the point??? What is the broad external conflict? There doesn’t seem to be one. This series gets frequently compared to Harry Potter, but the most obvious difference is that HP presents the reader with a general conflict and arc. Voldemort is bad; he wants to kill Harry/everyone. Simple enough. It gets more complicated later, but that general plot point is a thread throughout. In Nevermoor??? I don’t know! Both books allude to something, but not really. I can’t elaborate without spoiling, but I will say that so far, I can’t really understand what I’m supposed to be afraid of. (I’ll explain further down below in a spoiler section if you so choose to care.)
2. The world-building is TERRIBLE. Actually, no. It’s nonexistent. Without a rich world forming the foundation, you have nothing. Like a body devoid of nutrients, this installment slugged its way through this lackluster plot, fueled only by the sugary confection Townsend allowed it have. This series is the equivalent of hiring a contractor to build a house, but instead of describing how you want the blueprint of the house to look, you instead spend several hours detailing exactly what kind of carpet you want in the third bedroom and the specific paint finish you want on the ornate bathroom mirror. Like, yes, Jessica, your descriptions are lovely and whimsical, but unless I understand even the most basic structure of the world you’ve created, I’m just treading water in the ocean at midnight without even the moon for guidance.
3. Predictable. To the point of boredom. Children’s literature doesn’t have to be this way! I don’t care what you say, I’m right about this.
4. The Characters. Blegh. Ugh. Wow. Each one was either completely forgotten, peppered in sparingly when convenient, a caricature devoid of reality, and/or a cheap Harry Potter knock-off. I don’t have anything else to say about that.
5. The nefarious undertones aren’t actually nefarious. Townsend clearly wanted to include villainous plot points and characters, and I support and admire that. The problem is that she did it badly. When something dark or sinister happens, it almost feels like a(n unintended) joke. Something bad happens, and the characters agree that it’s bad. But then all of the sudden, it’s not that bad. And then everyone laughs and throws an extravagant party. Rinse and repeat.
There’s a weird dynamic between the darkness she wants to explore and the humor she uses to lighten it; unfortunately, it doesn’t quite reach the “dark humor” level most authors reach for, or the balancing act used in Harry Potter. It’s more like a splotchy tie dye job rather than smoothly melted together. And listen, I’m all for using caricatures of people to explore dark humor (shout out to Lemony Snicket), but this does not meet the mark.
Overall, I’m willing to continue this series because I see potential in its charm, and I’m not that much of a heartless bitch. Or so I tell myself.
*SPOILERS*
Okay so I have a few more things to say about this lack of a theme nonsense. Obviously the first two novels are about three things:
1) Morrigan’s internal conflict of insecurity, paranoia, and mild self-loathing
2) Morrigan’s external conflict with those who dislike her
3) Morrigan’s external conflict with the Wundersmith, Ezra Squall
And that’s fine. These are adequate conflicts in theory. The problem is that we can already tell by this second novel that the first two conflicts are on their way to being resolved, so that only leaves the last to be the thread that ties the series together. And the problem with that is that it SUCKS! There is no real conflict with Ezra Squall. Like, sure, he’s sort of evil and sometimes murders people. But all he wants to do with Mog is educate her. I must say, this is a kind of refreshing turn of events in that complicates his character...but... well...who’s the villain then??? He alludes to a greater enemy at the end of this novel, but it just doesn’t cut it. It’s either way too late or way too soon to add this plot twist. It should either be in the first book, or added in the last one. It puts a tear in the cohesion of the series.
Alright. I’m finally done. This amount of review for a children’s fantasy novel is only a little bit embarrassing. Please continue with your day.
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