The Art of Magic

A Novel

  • Interest Level: Grade 4 - Grade 7
  • Reading Level: Grade 5

A pack of paints, a set of pens, and unlimited creativity throw two friends into an enchanted, fast-paced adventure.

ZuZu’s first summer without her best friend is looking pretty grim, until she meets new kid Andrew at a visit to the historic Mapleton Mansion. Together they stumble upon some enchanted art supplies and discover that the shapes they draw and paint can come to life. Their creations are harmless—but ZuZu and Andrew aren’t the only ones with access to magic.

Soon, nightmarish half-machine, half-living creatures begin appearing around town, controlled by a power-hungry “caster” with a sinister mission. It’s up to ZuZu and Andrew to use their newfound abilities to protect their community.

“There are deliciously chilling descriptions of scuttling, otherworldly creations and resurrections gone awry, but there is also delight to be found in enchanted artwork and blossoming friendships. A thrilling introduction to a newfangled magic.”—Booklist

“A satisfying, compelling adventure with an original magical construct and bright, appealing protagonists.”—Kirkus Reviews

“The magical rules created by Voskuil feel exciting . . . . This creative fantasy will move well with fans of Tae Keller’s When You Trap a Tiger.”School Library Journal

Format Your Price Add
978-1-7284-1567-3
$13.49
978-1-7284-5119-0
$22.99
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on hardcovers and ebooks when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Grade 4 - Grade 7
Reading Level Grade 5
Category Diverse Books: Mental Health & Neurodiversity, Diversity, SEL: B Self-Management, SEL: D Relationship Skills, SEL: E Responsible Decision-Making, Social Emotional Learning
Copyright 2022
Publisher Lerner Publishing Group
Imprint Carolrhoda Books ®
Language English
Number of Pages 328
Publication Date 2022-05-03
Text Type Fiction—Science Fiction/Fantasy
BISACS JUV037000, JUV003000, JUV069000
Dewey [Fic]
Dimensions 5.25 x 7.5
Lexile 770
Guided Reading Level X
Features Author/Illustrator biography, Reviewed, Teaching Guides, and eSource

Reviews

School Library Connection

“[T]he reader will be drawn into the story though the fast-paced dialog and multiple points of view, all of which will keep them from wanting to put the book down. Students who appreciate stories involving magic will enjoy reading this book.” —School Library Connection

School Library Journal

“The magical rules created by Voskuil feel exciting . . . . This creative fantasy will move well with fans of Tae Keller’s When You Trap a Tiger.”School Library Journal

Jennifer Blecher

“Magical, musical, and mysterious. A delightfully haunting tale.”—Jennifer Blecher, author of Stick with Me

Karen Briner

“[A] complex and magical adventure filled with heart and imagination.”—Karen Briner, author of Snowize & Snitch

Booklist

“There are deliciously chilling descriptions of scuttling, otherworldly creations and resurrections gone awry, but there is also delight to be found in enchanted artwork and blossoming friendships. A thrilling introduction to a newfangled magic.”—Booklist

Kirkus Reviews

“A satisfying, compelling adventure with an original magical construct and bright, appealing protagonists.”—Kirkus Reviews