4 stars

This is such a charming and sweet book that will absolutely resonate with all kinds of readers. From its short, action-packed chapters to an intriguing but age-appropriate mystery to its focus on the value of books and libraries (at a time when we all really need to be reminding others of this), there's a little something to bring everyone joy.

Evan, the m.c., accesses a magical realm through a super familiar location, at least in my neck of the woods: a little free library. When he takes these books, a whole new world opens for him, and he gets to develop a novel understanding of the value of books, the importance of community, and the answers to questions about himself that he didn't even know he had!

Booklovers and folks with deep seated connections to their own libraries - especially from when they were children - will find so much to love here. This is a real love letter to all of these areas, and even readers who have not yet developed these connections may see this book as an impetus to do just that.