I heard about this book, by Edward Eager, on an NPR Morning Edition report about what to read while waiting for the next Harry Potter. I originally got it for my oldest, but when she didn’t look interested, I picked it up just to see for myself.
It’s a very cute little book. Written in 1954, Eager uses E. Nesbit’s style and stories (the children’s lives change after reading The Enchanted Castle) to create his own tale. The plot is simple: Four siblings find an ancient talisman and find that it grants wishes, but only by halves. They have some fun adventures, learn a few things, and generally have a grand time. Not real deep stuff, but fun nonetheless.
And after hearing me talk about it, my oldest decided she wants to read it. And after they’re done with Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe, my husband and second decided they want a turn, too. So, maybe it is something worthwile to read until Harry Potter 6 comes out. (Maybe it’ll spark an interest in Nesbit’s books, too.)
The Book Nut 
I love “Half-Magic.” My mom has an old, probably original copy that I read when I was younger. I’ve re-read it so many times now I can’t count. It’s sweet, simple and fun. He wrote many other books too and one summer I bought them for my mom. His books are worth reading in their own right, not just as fillers while you wait for “Harry Potter.” I think they’re great for reading with your kids. They’re not so long nor as angst-filled as the more recent installments of “HP.” I think they make a great addition to your family library.
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I actually think that this one is a great read-aloud. I tried to convince the rest of my family of that, but since they’re knee-deep in Narnia right now, I didn’t push it. Maybe later. I’ll have to check out his other books, too. Thanks.
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I LOVED <>Half-Magic<> when I was a kid! I also read several others by Eager, though I can’t remember any titles. (However, as much as I loved Half-Magic, I wouldn’t interrupt Narnia for anything!)Melissa, how cool that you grew up in Ann Arbor!! I’m a townie, too, and so is my husband. We both graduated from Pi Hi in 1984. If you want, email me and I’ll give you some more biographical info, and we can figure out if we know each other. I’m also curious to know how you ended up in Arkansas!I see my blog on your roll; I’m going to put yours on mine right now.
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