Joplin, Wishing by Diane Stanley

Reviewed by Ananya

                    

Joplin, Wishing by Diane Stanley is about how a young middle-schooler with an over-stressed mother and divorced parents crosses the threshold of a magical enchantment. Joplin has a rough and seemingly ordinary life until suddenly things aren’t the same anymore.

After Joplin’s famous grandfather dies, she is allowed to pick one of his belongings to keep. While searching, she finds a tin box with a broken dutch-porcelain antique inside, which is wrapped up with sorcery and secrets. Joplin soon discovers the pricelessness of the antique and learns that a man once abused the powers of the treasure with harsh brutality and is hoping to snag it again! Can Joplin keep it safe?

This book is amazingly emotional, and there are many times when you feel like you want to cry with Joplin, yell, or even scream with fear and pain. The author, Diane Stanley, is really great at making you feel what Joplin is feeling, from the suspenseful moments to the glory and triumph achieved.

Another cool thing about this book is the fact that it is detailed from the description of the  anxious expression on Joplin’s face to the coral necklace her friend Sofie wears. The details make this book feel like a movie and that you are watching the scenes, one by one. The details paint images in your head and they are clear and amazing to see play out.  

I would rate this awesome book a 10/10, for its mysterious plotline, jaw-dropping details, and emotional moments! Unfortunately, this book is not a series. It is great for boys, girls, and anyone who loves books about magic, logic, and friendship. Now quickly, if you value your life, run to the nearest library and check out Joplin, Wishing by Diane Stanley!

HarperCollins Publisher, 326 pages