CHILDREN OF MANDRAKE PRESS + UPCOMING EVENTS
A Reading From Chapter 8
Reviews
Check out these reviews from readers, and check out Children of Mandrake's page on NetGalley!
Review from Cal H (NetGalley)
5 Stars
This story left me raw. Jesse Stein weaves a rich and whimsical story about grief, growing up, and change. I was not expecting such a deep and at times terrifying tale.
Children of Mandrake follows a young man named Truman, along with his friend Donna, on a journey along the river that surrounds their town, Mandrake. In Mandrake it rains every day, except on Thursdays, and things are never quite what they seem. For Donna's 13th birthday, the duo is sent into the wilds of the swamp and river to retrieve special cinnamon from a rare cinnamon tree. However, this seemingly simple task is anything but as Truman's and Donna's past is waiting for them in the watery and magical landscape.
I loved the writing in this book, but I don't think it's for everyone. If you are a fan of the bizarre wonderment in Orfeia and Alice in Wonderland, you will enjoy this.
I received an early e-edition of this book on #netgalley. Thank you to Atmosphere Press and Netgalley for this opportunity.
“Children of Mandrake’s rich synthesis of ecological and personal connections makes it a top recommendation for middle to high school readers and elementary-level libraries interested in a coming-of-age fantasy that weaves together elements of social and ecological consciousness, detective work, epic adventure, and magic.”
D Donovan -- Senior reviewer, Midwest Book Review
“An engaging, original tale for those looking for elaborate worldbuilding in their fantasy fiction.”
Kirkus Reviews
It talks of brotherhood, of mourning, of unsolved mysteries, of secrets hidden in blood. (...) I didn’t expect this book to resonate so much
Beatrice -- NetGalley
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"This novel is a story of found family, finding the strength and life within oneself, and having the courage in the face of danger and hard decisions. (...) I highly recommend this book. It was a wonderful read. It will pull on your heartstrings while also making you smile as you grow close to Truman and Donna."
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Emma -- Goodreads Review