The Crowns of Croswald



By D. E. Night
Published 2017

Why I chose this book:
I would like to include more children's reading levels than just picture books, so when I saw that reviews for this children's chapter book were sought, I responded. The publisher provided a copy for review.

Mom's Review

High fantasy, sorcery without the sword. This magical mystery adventure features enchantments performed with quill pens and enchanted gems. Ivy Lovely, the sixteen-year-old protagonist, runs away from her lowly job in the castle kitchen, to be picked up by a representative from a magical school. She learns that she is enrolled to begin learning magic in a number of days, although she has no idea how this could come to pass, almost reminiscent of Harry Potter. Despite the improbability, she recognizes an opportunity not to be missed. 

Ivy's school year progresses as you might expect, with magical mishaps, a bully, a secret crush, and an unfair teacher. What sets this novel apart is the magic and mystery. Ivy is studying to become a scrivenist. This means that she can perform magic using a quill pen, has a particular talent for realistic drawing, and has magic flowing through her blood. Although I am a bit unclear on how exactly the students harness their magic and use their quills or gems, suspension of disbelief came easily. Ivy's studies, as well as many strange events, lead her to research an older scrivenist by the name of Derwin Edgar Night. Her investigation leads to more questions than answers, a search into her own history, and exploration of several forbidden places. She ultimately confronts the Dark Queen in a magical battle, learns her own history, and sets Derwin free from his enchanted prison. Excitement abounds in this novel for tweens and teens. I had fun reading it now, and I know I would have gobbled it up as a kid.

Reading The Crowns of Croswald as an adult, I particularly liked the depiction of Ivy's relationship with her roommate. Although they came from vastly different backgrounds, they were fast friends and always their authentic selves. Furthermore, each was ready to do what was right despite others' opposition. It's a prime example of supportive, healthy friendship between girls for a young audience to see.

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