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Tuesday, June 18, 2024

Review: The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer

Author: Meg Shaffer
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Publication Date: May 2023

 Make a wish. . . .
Lucy Hart knows better than anyone what it’s like to grow up without parents who loved her. In a childhood marked by neglect and loneliness, Lucy found her solace in books, namely the Clock Island series by Jack Masterson. Now a twenty-six-year-old teacher’s aide, she is able to share her love of reading with bright, young students, especially seven-year-old Christopher Lamb, who was left orphaned after the tragic death of his parents. Lucy would give anything to adopt Christopher, but even the idea of becoming a family seems like an impossible dream without proper funds and stability.

But be careful what you wish for. . . .

Just when Lucy is about to give up, Jack Masterson announces he’s finally written a new book. Even better, he’s holding a contest at his home on the real Clock Island, and Lucy is one of the four lucky contestants chosen to compete to win the one and only copy.

For Lucy, the chance of winning the most sought-after book in the world means everything to her and Christopher. But first she must contend with ruthless book collectors, wily opponents, and the distractingly handsome (and grumpy) Hugo Reese, the illustrator of the Clock Island books. Meanwhile, Jack “the Mastermind” Masterson is plotting the ultimate twist ending that could change all their lives forever.

. . . You might just get it.

In The Wishing Game, teaching assistant Lucy is invited to enter into a contest where she may win a copy of the latest manuscript from beloved children's author Jack Masterson.  If she can win, she knows she can sell the book and finally adopt little Christopher.

For the most part, I did enjoy the book. At the center of the book. there is a wonderful story about finding home and family.  That is ultimately what Lucy is looking for.  I  liked the games and how each contestant was forced to face their fears.  I also enjoyed the relationship between Jack and Hugo.  I thought the story was beautifully written and I was engaged the entire time.  

What I didn't love was the relationship between Lucy and Christopher.  I get that Lucy loves Christopher, but  I felt like she gave him too much false hope.  I know it was needed for the story, but I just had a hard time getting behind it.  Despite that, I do recommend this one.  It's a heartwarming story that will leave you with a smile.

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