Liz Montague's "The Equinox Test," or is it "School for Unusual Magic"? Right from the cover, the confusion begins when the title "School for Unusual Magic" boldly appears, but a small sign tucked in a tree reads "The Equinox Test." Frankly, it's a bit perplexing.


Despite the muddle of titles, once you dive into the pages, Montague's magical world quickly captivates. Set within the walls of the Brooklyn School of Magic, readers are introduced to Rose, Amethyst, and Lavender—three friends teetering on the brink of a fantastical adventure.


Montague's illustrations dance across the pages, infusing life into every spell and enchantment, and making the Brooklyn School of Magic feel like a place you could almost reach out and touch. Amidst the magical backdrop, our trio faces the daunting Equinox Test—a challenge that will determine their futures.

The characters' worries, ambitions, and longing for home are deftly woven into a narrative tapestry that's both relatable and engaging. But it's not just the test that keeps our heroes on their toes; best friend battles, cheating scandals, and brewing troubles within the magical community add layers of complexity to an already enchanting plot.

While the title confusion might be a head-scratcher, Montague's storytelling prowess shines through, delivering a captivating adventure that's equal parts whimsical and heartfelt. Fans of "Witchlings" and "The Wizards of Waverly Place" will find much to love here.

In conclusion, "The Equinox Test," or perhaps "School for Unusual Magic"? Regardless of the title quagmire, Montague's tale is sure to cast a spell on readers young and old. And while I might recommend a cover redesign for clarity's sake, one thing's for certain: this magical adventure is not to be missed.

Incredibly charming story of magic -- and a school for magic located right in Brooklyn! This will hook all of your upper elementary lovers of fantasy, maybe even bringing in a few new readers. Students will relate to the conflict between student and parents and the bonds of friendship with her classmates. Even the anxiety over the upcoming test will be something that our students understand, creating empathy for the anxiety and high stakes sometimes faced. Recommend for any elementary school library and even some middle schools.

I’m sure I’ll never outgrow my love for middle-grade books. And a school of magic lured me in quickly.

Rose is attending Brooklyn School of Magic, but it isn’t looking good for her. She isn’t doing well and may not move up to Middle Magic. Then we have Lavender, who is missing home and wants to fit in at school. What to do, what to do? Well, Rose asks her friend Amethyst to help her study. But, ugh, it doesn’t seem to be helping. Cheating, hmm, could it be an option? Maybe Lav and Rose can come up with a plan.

The topic is great for the age bracket, with three students needing to pass the Equinox Test to move up to middle magic. Is it worth cheating to move up?

The struggles feel real and relatable. The story feels like one that will easily pull kids in due to the characters and their struggles, plus a touch of magic.

It’s a yes for this author and story. The characters in this book will keep you turning the pages. And the illustrations make it even more fun.

My thanks to NetGalley for an eARC.

A fun series about magic and having different strengths and struggles.
The first book in the series for elementary readers.

Great start to a new series with a heartfelt story for young readers to connect with and interspersed with fun illustrations full of emotion

Anxiety Alert! Poor Rose is under so much pressure to do well on her test. Sorrowful Lav is lonely and just wants to fit in. Dejected Amethyst just wants to please her mother. The struggles are real and the author does a fantastic job of making the characters highly relatable. I just wanted to hug each of them and tell them it would be okay. The cute comics sprinkled throughout the book make it an even better read. Love the format! The events that transpire, both good and bad, keep the reader on their toes and waiting for the next magical experience. This is a great middle-school read. I’d definitely read more by this author.