Book Review: The Changelings by Christina Soontornvat

Book Review: The Changelings by Christina Soontornvat

Reviewed by WB Intern Sydney Elizabeth Chandler

One of the best challenges in writing Middle Grade Fiction is being able to touch all age groups. Yes, a Middle Grade should keep the kids reading, but the stories that stand out most to me are those that touch the teens and adults as well. As a twenty-year-old student in college, I was surprised at how touched I was by this incredible story. The Changelings is full of magical friends, terrifying enemies, and a world you just want to dive into and never resurface from. And underneath the magic lies a sense of love, and home, and the true strength of family.

After reading this story, all I wanted to do was curl up with my little sister and let her know that, if she was ever captured by a magical witch with evil intent, I would most definitely come to her rescue. Izzy, the main protagonist, felt so tangible on the page, that I found myself wanting to converse with her throughout the story. “Izzy, what are you gonna do now?” “Izzy, watch out hun!” “Izzy, I’m right here with you.” Christina’s incredible stitching of fantasy and reality makes this book an everlasting read.

Here are some other reader’s thoughts on this new fantastical journey:

“I highly recommend this. I can’t quite match it with any other books I’ve read other than to say pieces of it remind me of Fablehaven, Alice in Wonderland, and the Last of the Really Great Wangdoodles.”

“Fantastic!! Definitely a hard to put down title…my eyes are blood shot from non-stop reading.”

“Soontornvat’s debut sparkles and delights.”

“Many thanks to Christina Soontornvat for her book and her beautiful images, such as “The sky was full of stars, like someone had tossed a handful of sugar out into the night.” This book should be read all curled up in bed under a warm and fluffy blanket.”