Review: Magical Monty by Johanna Hurwitz

SUMMARY FROM NETGALLEY.COM:

First grade is almost over, and Monty will soon be seven. He's now a big brother, too, which makes him feel very grown-up. But when he tries to use the magic set his grandmother gave him, he has a little trouble. Maybe the card trick would work if he were eight years old? Mother's Day is coming, and Monty wishes he had something better to give his mom than the picture frame he made out of ice cream sticks at school. But how is he supposed to guess from the TV call-in ad how much flowers cost, or that you need a special card to get them? Whether involving his baby sister in his library project, losing a sneaker while marching with his karate class in the parade, or learning that an exciting afternoon isn't always a good thing, Monty's familiar adventures embody the gentle humor of everyday life.

MY TAKE:

Magical Monty is a cute story about the life of young Monty.

Each chapter is like a mini story, but the connecting thread of the stories is Mandy, Monty's little sister, and Monty's interest in magic.

Monty is a charming kid. He's only 7 years old but he acts wise beyond his years. This would be a great book for young kids to read on their own, rather than for their parents to read to them. After all, the book is about Monty being able to do things for himself without the help of his parents.

Thanks to NetGalley and Candlewick Press for the e-ARC. Publication date of Magical Monty is April 10, 2012.

THE GOOD:

1. Nice stand-alone chapters.
2. Promotes good values.
3. Pleasant characters and manner of writing.

THE BAD:

1. It could have had more chapters.

FAVORITE QUOTE/S:

"I like being big enough to be a big brother," he said softly.

READ IT IF:

1. You have a child that likes magic.
2. You have just added a new baby to your family.
3. You want a book that you can read in parts over several nights.

RATING:

SOUNDS INTERESTING?