Half Magic

Jane finds a strange coin on the sidewalk and sticks it in her pocket. She and her siblings are bored stiff that summer – all their friends are away in the country while they’re stuck at home. So she wishes something exciting will happen.

And surprisingly, something exciting does happen – her wish is granted! Kind of.

The children figure out that the coin grants wishes – but only halfway. This leads to many descriptions of how to say a wish so you actually get what you want – and not only halfway.

They have many adventures – and learn many lessons. Some of their wishes are accidental. Most are deliberate.

All in all, Half Magic by Edward Eager is a fun book of adventures that could generate some discussion of what you’d wish for if you only got half a wish granted.

Recommended for ages 8 and up.