Riddle Quest is like jumping into a big bowl of magic soup full of fairy tales, sparkles, riddles, and feelings you didn't know you needed to feel. It kicks off with two kids, Ellie and Max, who are both feeling kind of invisible at home. Their parents are busy, distracted, and totally missing the fact that these kids are kinda struggling. So they go to the library and they find a glowing book that sucks them into this epic riddle adventure through classic storybook worlds like Neverland, Wonderland, Oz, and more. Each world holds a riddle to solve and a life lesson to learn, and it's not just about finding treasure, it's about finding themselves.

I loved this book way more than I expected. The writing has that perfect mix of cozy and exciting. You feel safe with Ellie and Max, but also super curious, like what's gonna happen next?! That scene where they get pulled into the glowing book was straight-up movie magic. And the way they figure out the Peter Pan riddle with the pirate ship and crocodile was adorable and smart. But what really got me was the emotional undercurrent. Like when Max says maybe his mom hasn't even noticed he's gone. You feel for these kids, and their growth feels so real. Plus, the rhyming riddles sprinkled throughout are clever.

The Wonderland part was maybe my favorite, bright colors, talking tea sets, and total chaos with a Cheshire Cat who vanishes mid-sentence. The writing in those chapters is playful and weird in the best way. And then it turns around and gets all heartwarming when Ellie says she could try asking more questions at home instead of just being mad. That's the kind of life tip I wish I had when I was 10. Also, the illustrations are wonderful. Each page pops with color and feels alive, especially the dreamlike scene of them flying with Peter Pan.

This picture book is a total gem. It's perfect for kids around 7-11 who love adventure, fairy tales, or just need a little magic to feel seen. Grown-ups should read it too, especially the ones who sometimes forget how much their kids need them. This children's chapter book is like a hug with a flashlight, it warms you up and lights the way.

Rating: 5 Stars

--Thomas Anderson "Literary Titan" (4/16/2025 12:00:00 AM)

Riddle Quest: The Golden Book of Wonders by Mr. Bob is an imaginative journey that blends adventure, classic literature, and emotional growth into one cohesive story. Centered on two children, Ellie and Max, the book opens with feelings of neglect and loneliness as both grapple with being overlooked by their parents. Their shared frustration leads them to a local library, where a magical book transports them into an extraordinary world of riddles and wonder. The book is structured as a quest through beloved literary landscapes. With each chapter, Ellie and Max must solve a riddle that opens the door to a new adventure inspired by a classic tale. They soar through Neverland with Peter Pan, sip tea in Wonderland with the Mad Hatter, and follow the golden path of Oz alongside the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man, and Scarecrow. These literary references are cleverly adapted, offering young readers a sense of discovery while paying tribute to enduring stories that spark curiosity and courage.Illustrator Andri Anto's visuals add warmth and charm to Mr. Bob's words, enhancing the feeling that this is a magical tale rooted in childhood wonder. As Ellie and Max travel through each world, their conversations reflect a growing maturity. They begin to understand the value of friendship and imagination and the complex realities of their families' lives. Their emotional arc is gradual and believable, culminating in a new perspective emphasizing empathy and appreciation over fantasy or escapism. The message is clear: even in times of disappointment or confusion, magic exists in how we choose to see and respond to the world around us. Riddle Quest is a meaningful story for readers of all ages, particularly children navigating change or feeling unseen. It inspires curiosity, encourages emotional reflection, and champions the quiet power of books to transport and transform. It's a timely tale and one to be treasured.5 Stars!

--Carol Thompson "Readers' Favorite" (4/20/2025 12:00:00 AM) --This text refers to the hardcover edition.