Magicalia is a fun and fast paced fantasy adventure. Great for you get readers, the fast pace, high level of action and shorter length make it a great option for kids who are new to middle grade books and struggling readers.

What a fun and magical read! I really enjoyed this one and the world that Jennifer Bell has created. There is lots of action and adventure as Bitsy and Kosh try to track down Bitsy's kidnapped father and solve the mystery that unravels as they do. My favourite part was the whole concept of magicores and how they are conjured. I don't think I have read anything like that before. There are other parts that feel borrowed from other fantasy type books but that's pretty common. It is hard to completely innovate all aspects.

I found the action to be well paced and loved that while trying to track down the gyrowheel they traveled all over the world and visited some famous landmarks. I always love when middle grade books do this so kids will be encouraged to look up these places and learn more about them.

I really enjoyed the audiobook version of this book since the narrator brought life to the characters and the action but after reading some other reviews of the print book and mentions of the illustrations at the beginning of each chapter, I wish I had the print copy to enjoy those. Either way I think kids of all ages will enjoy this new series by Jennifer Bell and will be anxiously awaiting the next book just like I am when they finish.

I received an advanced audio book edition of this book through Netgalley and the publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Familiars captured in Pokéballs? Well, sort of—in this world, they’re called Magicores, mystical creatures conjured by people with rare gifts.

When Bitsy finds her dad kidnapped by a stranger, she begins to piece together secrets her parents had been hiding from her. Now, to rescue her father, she has to develop the ability to conjure Magicores by going to a magical school. But this new world has complexities of its own, as one of the guilds that wield such powers are hunters who would destroy anyone and anything that comes in their path.

This middle-grade adventure reminded me of too many things at once: The Pokéballs from Pokémon, the familiars, and the Hogwarts school along with an antagonistwho is highly skilled. Even though the concepts felt borrowed, I enjoyed the new twists that the author tied them with in this story. There is also a mention of India and the Taj Mahal as one of the quests taking place, which was a happy encounter for me.

The energy of the MC (Bitsy) is infectious, which also reflects in her narrator's voice, and many times I found myself smiling as I was listening to the audiobook. The story is fast-paced and nothing short of hilarious escapades. It tugs at the child within you and amuses you all the way through.

📚This was a blend of Pokémon and Fantastic Beasts as promised, set against the backdrop of a magical and wonderous journey to save Bitsy’s dad. Traveling through incredible lands and encountering a variety of fantastical creatures along the magical journey was every bit the adventure anticipated!

It’s a solid middle grade listen full of imaginative world building, exciting action, and just the right amount of heartfelt moments. The story balances adventure with themes of friendship and family, making it both fun and meaningful.

Overall, it’s an engaging and creative tale that young listeners will enjoy, especially those who love magical creatures and adventures.

🎧Penelope's narration is definitely engaging. She's got a pleasant tone and pacing, as well as a solid range when it comes to bringing different characters to life. That said, we did hit a few bumps trying to catch some of the names and creature descriptions through her accent at times with a couple of the voices. While we stuck with it and ultimately enjoyed the overall performance, it's something worth mentioning for fellow listeners who might run into the same issue.

Read: May 16th - May 20th
Format: Audiobook
Rating: 3 stars

Thank you to the publisher and the author for this audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review!

This book is probably closer to a 2 for me, but it isn't horrible, so I bumped it to a 3. Mostly because I think a lot of my disappointment comes from it not really living up to the magic of Pokemon. Was it bad? No. But promising me that wonder just to fall short is gonna lose you some points v_v One of the best things about Pokemon is seeing the creatures living and breathing in the world, but here they were only present at specific summoned points and felt more like tools than part of the world, you know?

But the plot itself was good, and the creatures were fun. It's a nice, fast read, and has actually interesting twists that lead into a good message about assumptions and judging and stuff. Really, if I think much on it, it's not a bad Middle Grade book at all. But, gaaaah, my hopes going up with that Pokemon comp 😭