What I’m Reading (and Why I Love It): The Wishing Spell

Middle-Grade Fantasy Book Review

Every so often, I pick up a book that reminds me exactly why I fell in love with middle-grade fantasy in the first place. The Wishing Spell by Chris Colfer is one of those books. It’s whimsical, heartfelt, adventurous, and filled with the kind of magic that makes readers, no matter their age, want to step through the page and explore a new world. If you or the readers in your life enjoy stories that twist fairy tales into something fresh and exciting, this is a perfect place to start.

Why I Love It

This book stands out for using well-known fairy tale characters in innovative, original storytelling. The twin protagonists, Alex and Conner, enter the Land of Stories through a magical book that they find in their world, and their adventure becomes a thrilling mix of danger and charm. The author creates a world where readers can meet the Evil Queen from Snow White and Sleeping Beauty's kingdom and Red Riding Hood's comedic political situations, while the twins embark on their perilous journey using their bravery, intelligence, and brotherly affection.

• Identity and finding your place in a world that doesn’t always feel built for you

• Family bonds, especially the complicated love between siblings

• Courage, even when you feel wildly out of your depth

• Learning from stories, and how fairy tales shape who we become

  
  

As a writer, I admire how Colfer balances the fast-paced adventure with meaningful emotional moments. The chapters end with just enough momentum to make you beg for “one more page,” but never sacrificing character depth in the process.

A Favorite Quote

One of my favorite lines is:

“The world will always choose convenience over reality.”

This is an excellent analysis about how stories evolve through time until they reach their definitive version which could differ from what actually occurred. For middle-grade readers, who are beginning to question the world around them, it sparks important conversations about perspective, honesty, and how we shape the stories we tell.

Who This Book Is Perfect For

👧 Young readers (8–12) who love fairy tales, magical quests, and high-energy adventures.

📚 Teachers and librarians looking for a book that blends fantasy fun with meaningful themes.

👨‍👩‍👧 Parents who want a story that sparks imagination while exploring courage, empathy, and family.

📝 Writers and creative kids interested in how classic tales can be reimagined into something entirely new.

Whether you’re a reader, educator, or writer, The Wishing Spell offers a magical journey worth taking. It’s a book that inspires curiosity and creativity, exactly the kind of reading experience that helps young readers fall in love with stories.

If you’ve read The Wishing Spell, I’d love to hear what you thought. And if you haven’t, it might be time to crack open a magical book of your own.