3.5 stars. This was such a sweet and fun middle grade book. I’m a big fan of Greek/Roman mythology so I loved that that was included in this story. I liked how each kind of Streghe practiced a different type of magic linked to a different god.
Giada , the protagonist, descends from a long line of guaritrices, who use their magic to help heal other humans. But Giada feels compelled to heal animals instead. This causes friction between her and her family. Giada is able to use her magic to speak to animals too and when her brother is taken by the Streghe del Malocchio, her connection to animals is what helps her to save him.
I loved how Giada was able to communicate with the different animals and her familiar. Even though she was young, Giada had confidence in herself and was able to put her fear aside to do what was needed. I also loved that Giada was a full-figured girl and she was not ashamed of it.
I liked how the author showed more than one dimension with the Steghe del Malocchio. They weren't just inherently evil; it was more complex than that. They had a purpose to the world.
The only complaint I have is that I wish there had been even more interactions between Giada and other animals. The mythical Gryphons were a fun addition and I really liked the tarantula, Tartufo and her familiar, Sinistro, but I would have loved even more animals to be included, especially mythical ones.
The ending was sweet and I would recommend this to any child or adult who loves fantasy, animals and magic.
**Thank you to Inkyard Press and Bookishfirst for an ARC. The opinions expressed herein are my own**
Giada , the protagonist, descends from a long line of guaritrices, who use their magic to help heal other humans. But Giada feels compelled to heal animals instead. This causes friction between her and her family. Giada is able to use her magic to speak to animals too and when her brother is taken by the Streghe del Malocchio, her connection to animals is what helps her to save him.
I loved how Giada was able to communicate with the different animals and her familiar. Even though she was young, Giada had confidence in herself and was able to put her fear aside to do what was needed. I also loved that Giada was a full-figured girl and she was not ashamed of it.
I liked how the author showed more than one dimension with the Steghe del Malocchio. They weren't just inherently evil; it was more complex than that. They had a purpose to the world.
The only complaint I have is that I wish there had been even more interactions between Giada and other animals. The mythical Gryphons were a fun addition and I really liked the tarantula, Tartufo and her familiar, Sinistro, but I would have loved even more animals to be included, especially mythical ones.
The ending was sweet and I would recommend this to any child or adult who loves fantasy, animals and magic.
**Thank you to Inkyard Press and Bookishfirst for an ARC. The opinions expressed herein are my own**