Title: Magic and the Venetian Amulet
Author: Gale Gene
Publisher: Brilliant Books Literary
ISBN: 1641337656
Pages: 134
Genre: Children’s Fantasy
Reviewed by: Manik Chaturmutha
Pacific Book Review
Magic and the Venetian Amulet is a young adult fantasy adventure by Gale Gene that invites the readers to travel through the narrow alleyways and historic canals of Venice. From a picturesque setting to lovable characters, this book offers a beautiful story of friendship and courage in the face of danger.
The narrative is told from the eyes of the main character, Paul, who is vacationing in Italy with his friends and family. However, when a gang of thieves steals a historic Venetian amulet, their dream vacation takes an unexpected turn and becomes a thrilling quest. They plan to uncover a mysterious theft and confront the gang of thieves responsible. Gene has also included a few chapters from the thieves’ perspective where they plot to kidnap the children or kill the dog. Knowing their intentions and watching the protagonists face them kept me hooked. This technique of dramatic irony and alternating perspectives helped the story maintain its sense of tension despite its usually cheerful tone.
At the heart of this adventure is Paul’s loyal dog companion, Magic, the titular character. She plays a pivotal role in this journey and acts like a guardian to the kids, protecting them from danger and helping them through their missions. Her magical abilities contribute to an air of mystery and intrigue.
Gale Gene’s skill in creating relatable characters shines here, as each group member possesses a unique personality while remaining wholesome and endearing. Magic was the standout for me. Despite her inability to communicate verbally, Magic’s presence is charming, making her a testament to Gene’s storytelling prowess. The dynamic between Paul and Magic evoked a sense of nostalgia and comfort for me, which I hope other readers relate to. Within the book, the exploration of friendship and family dynamics is executed beautifully, adding authenticity to the characters’ interactions. These relationships effectively reflect the story’s themes, like friendship, teamwork, and trust. The narrative strikes a perfect balance, skilfully blending suspense, humour, and charm.
The writing style of this book is perfect for young readers. Gene vividly paints all the settings, such as cathedrals, alleyways, museums, etc. She includes many sensory details that immerse the reader in the environment. The fusion of magic and the real world adds an extra layer of excitement. There are multiple references to history, like ancient Egypt, cultures, architecture, and traditions, among many others. These would delight anyone who enjoys historical references. Another aspect I loved was the use of graphics throughout the book. Photos of the locations, museums, artifacts, etc., made the book enjoyable and immersive. They would benefit younger readers as they maintain their interests and help them visualize.
Overall, Magic and the Venetian Amulet captures the essence of a classic adventure story while infusing it with a touch of magic and modern settings. With its well-crafted plot, characters, and location, this book offers audiences an enjoyable reading experience. It is a must-read for young readers or anyone who loves a light-hearted fantasy adventure.
