Betwixters is a poetic and magical journey that leaves you mesmerized in the imagery.

This tale is about your classic school bullying with a twist, a twist of macabre horrors along the way. I especially loved the prologue, it really got me hooked. The author, Laura C. Cantu made the two worlds collide, faerie world and real world. Talk about weird and scary stuff, it’s all packed inside this book of which I have to say was a brilliant idea because it lends more character to the book. Imagine eating berries that makes you high; these and more are what Noah, Skye and Ethan met up with in trying to evade the school bully. Sorry can’t give any spoilers you just got to read it for yourselves. Nicely done.

This story is a great read for middle schoolers and even upper primary school advanced readers. The book has three twelve-year-old protagonists that are best friends, one girl and two boys. They are challenged by bullying, how far you will go for friendship, and facing their fears of letting their parents down. There is fantasy and intrigue tied up in the story, with a generous dose of mystery! This is the first book in the series and I am anxious to read the next installment. The author does an excellent job of writing to the reading level in that it is easy for middle schoolers but not overly simple for adults. I highly recommend this book for both girls or boys, especially those who face or have faced adversity in school.

Betwixters: Once Upon a Time is a brilliant middle-grade novel that is perfect for children from ages eight upwards, and I think it would be a brilliant book to have in school libraries, as it would draw children into the world full of magic and friendship, but also convey brilliant family dynamics that are full of support and love.