Review: "Bewitched in Oz" by Laura J Burns

Synopsis:

When Zerie Greenapple's friend is arrested for using her magic, she knows she must do everything she can to protect her own magic...even if it means traversing the dangerous landscapes of Oz and encountering strange creatures along the way. Zerie and two friends set out to find Glinda the Good, in the hope that she can help them defeat the evil Princess Ozma. But what they experience on their journey might just tear them apart. Will magic be enough to save these three friends?

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

My Review:

 

I have watched The Wizard of Oz countless of times, and seen Wicked on Broadway, as well as read it. So naturally, I consider myself somewhat of an expert on all things Oz related.  I wasn't royally disappointed with this book, but it is also nothing to write home about. 

 

What I liked most was probably the cliffhanger twist at the end.  It was certainly a twist I had never seen before.  The story kept me somewhat interested.  The pace wasn't too slow, thankfully, but it did drag a little about 3/4 into the book.  The magic element in the book was descriptive and nicely done; I was able to picture it.  There were bits of action here and there to keep you on edge. 

 

It's supposed to be geared towards children, but it sometimes read like a young adult book.  There are a couple love triangles, which I don't see the need for because they are children! But hey, what do I know?  There was also a lot of angst; maybe even too much.  There was something missing from the book though.  Maybe Toto?  Wicked Witch? I dont really know.

256 pages

Expected publication: August 1st 2014 by Capstone Young Readers

 

Rating: 🔔🔔🔔

Recommend?    It was okay.  Maybe worth a read, not much else.

(ARC courtesy of Net Galley and Capstone Young Readers in exchange for an honest review)