Never After is a great story for middle grade readers, entertaining and fast paced. Adult readers will find the plot holes annoying, especially concerning Filomena's parents. The plot involving the real world is way over the top, leaving me with the feeling that the author should have toned down some aspects. The fairy tale parts of the story are interesting and well imagined. The cover art to Never After fits the book well and stands out from the shelf.
I wanted to like this book more, but ultimately it is the target audience's opinion that matters most. Young readers will enjoy the action and will definitely root for Filomena Jefferson-Cho. From the real world to the fantasy, and back again, Filomena's struggles with her self image and identity will resonate with middle grade readers.
Overall, Never After had more of a Once Upon A Time vibe for me, which took away from its originality. I had high hopes for this book, but it did follow too much of a predictable path to be better than an average read.
I wanted to like this book more, but ultimately it is the target audience's opinion that matters most. Young readers will enjoy the action and will definitely root for Filomena Jefferson-Cho. From the real world to the fantasy, and back again, Filomena's struggles with her self image and identity will resonate with middle grade readers.
Overall, Never After had more of a Once Upon A Time vibe for me, which took away from its originality. I had high hopes for this book, but it did follow too much of a predictable path to be better than an average read.