
Reach for this book when your middle-schooler is struggling with the need to control their environment, especially following a significant change or the loss of a loved one. It is a perfect fit for children who feel like life is moving too fast and want to 'fix' their social world through sheer willpower. The story follows Emma, who tries to use a magical legacy from her late grandmother to ensure her school year goes perfectly, only to find her wishes hijacked by an annoying classmate named Jackson. While the book is filled with laugh-out-loud magical mishaps, it deeply explores themes of grief, the unpredictability of friendship, and the importance of collaboration. It is developmentally ideal for ages 8 to 13, offering a relatable look at social dynamics and the realization that things don't have to be perfect to be good. Parents will appreciate how it balances a lighthearted 'freaky Friday' style energy with a meaningful look at honoring a grandparent's memory.
Mild 'sparks' and bickering-to-friendship chemistry between young leads.
Frequent mentions of the death of a grandmother and the process of grieving.
The book deals with the death of a grandparent. The approach is direct and secular, focusing on the emotional legacy and the objects left behind. The resolution is hopeful, showing that while grief remains, the memories can be a source of strength rather than just sadness.
An 11-year-old girl who loves 'organized' fun, feels the pressure of social standing in middle school, and is privately missing a close relative. It is for the child who tries to be the 'fixer' in their friend group.
The book is safe for cold reading. Parents might want to discuss the concept of 'intent' vs. 'outcome' in the magical scenes. A parent might notice their child becoming overly controlling of playdates or school projects, or expressing deep frustration when things don't go 'exactly as planned.'
Younger readers (8-9) will focus on the humor and the 'cool' factor of the wishing well. Older readers (11-13) will resonate more with the social stakes, the budding chemistry between Emma and Jackson, and the nuance of Emma's grief.
Unlike many 'magic gone wrong' stories, this book ties the magic directly to the grieving process and the fear of moving on without a loved one, making it more emotionally resonant than a standard fantasy.
Emma Rockford is starting a new school year while still mourning the death of her Nana. Before she passed, Nana left Emma instructions for a secret wishing well. Emma creates a meticulous plan to use the well to help her friends and stabilize her life. However, a new kid named Jackson accidentally interferes, causing Emma's wishes to manifest for him instead of her. The two must overcome their mutual dislike and work together to fix the magical chaos they have unleashed.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
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