Spell & Spindle

Reviewed by: Jan Hamilton - Long Creek Center, S. Portland, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 9, 2018

Review

Such a fun ride from a museum through the city to a scary circus, this is a Stephen King book for intermediate age readers. Schusterman has provided a well written story that goes to the very soul and is the perfect fit for autumn adventures. Chance helps around the museum where Penny the marionette sits quietly on a shelf, the action starts in earnest when Chance takes Penny home. Other characters add to the charm of the chase but it is Penny who steals the show.

The detailed chapter heading illustrations reinforce the story line in this 1950 style novel. Even without technology and modern threats this is indeed a scary book that is appropriate for almost any middle grader. I would call it a good old fashion read. Add to public library collections and consider for school media centers where fantasy is collected.

Overall Book Score: very good