Today’s spotlight is on You Wish, which is the first in the series of The Misadventures of Benjamin Bartholomew Piff–which is kind of a mouthful to write, but fun to say! This story is intentionally a bit preposterous from the beginning, letting you know from the outset that you’re in for a Charlie in the chocolate factory kind of story. In fact, I found it to be reminiscent of the Lemony Snicket books in its tongue-in-cheek style of dry humor.

One of the things I really appreciated was that the author, Jason Lethcoe, does an admirable job of setting up the reader to expect exactly what they’re going to get. So, even though Benjamin Piff’s orphanage is set in our modern contemporary world you are alerted to the kind of story this will be when you begin the novel and find Benjamin scraping out a nasty concoction of soupy clams, spinach, and leftover meatloaf (I believe it was) from a giant pot so big he can sit inside it. I loved this showing so the reader can quickly deduct for themselves that while the book is technically contemporary it’s going to take a few liberties with reality.

Benjamin’s luck in life has been pretty poor since his parents were killed in a plane crash. That is, until he makes a successful birthday wish and is granted unlimited wishes. But the process of granting wishes isn’t without its own rules and industry, and the Wishworks factory is scrambling to keep up with Benjamin’s unlimited options. As luck would have it (haha) the timing of Benjamin’s wish couldn’t be worse. Wishworks has had growing problems with a long-time enemy, the Curseworks factory, and Benjamin’s stream of wishes creates just the moment Curseworks needs in order to launch their nefarious plan.

I can’t tell you much more without giving away too much but one of the things I enjoyed about the story were all of the lovable and extraordinary secondary characters from the Gene and Jenny boy and girl pair of magic lamp tradition, to characters like Perkins who is rarely on the page but still impacts because he’s so thoroughly relatable. I think you’ll especially enjoy the history of wishworks factory that’s sprinkled through the book, and delight with me in the awesome way folks get their food in the wishworks factory.

Now for my one caveat…I personally did not fall head over heels in love with Benjamin and the ending of the book was merely a smile rather than a glow for me. However, that might have been the case in part because the book is only the first in the series. However, the story and world will stay with me and I’m glad I read it. I think kids and most adult readers will absolutely love this behind-the-scenes sneak peek at where wishes come from, and the book is a thorough romp.

Now, let’s see what Apricot-kitty thought of it:

“Did you see the way that boy wasted his unlimited wishes? Please. As if all that human nonsense is necessary. Give me a spot in the sunshine and the occasional mouse and that’s all I need.”

Well, that and a human to open a door for her every five minutes, plus constant access to a warm lap to sit on, twelve other cozy beds–at least two per room–a food dish that never becomes empty in the center, and an outside that never rains. But certainly, other than that she’s happy. 😉

I’ve somehow managed to injure my left pinkie finger so I’m saving my hands for writing, and therefore will take slightly longer than my usual every-other-week before I post. However, I’ll be back Sep. 10th! For now, tell me what your favorite books were you read this summer. I’m making up a new TBR pile and would love your recommendations!

For more Marvelous Middle Grade Monday reviews, spotlights, interviews and giveaways stop by Greg Pattridge’s blog, and happy reading!

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