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Orson the Great by Colm McElwain


I received an advance reading copy of this book for review. I'd probably rate it a 4.5, but there are no halfs for reviews.  Goodreads Review: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/152594094-orson-the-great

Orson the Great by Colm McElwain delves into the history of magic through the life of Orson Whitlock as Orson discovers the world of magic and family tradition.  Without spoiling too much, Orson must hone his skills and become the best magician or the fate of the magic world is at risk.  It’s a lot of pressure for a young man, but he has the support of his family and trusty sidekick Agatha to keep him on the right path as he faces Daxton the Destroyer and conspiracies in the fight for magic.

The story is simply written with a good amount of fun details and magical background that will appeal to readers who enjoy young adult fiction.  McElwain brings the magic into Orson the Great without actually spoiling the tricks of the trade and keeping the magic real.  At some points, you can visualize the magic shows being performed and I often found myself wondering just how the trick is accomplished.  

My only complaint would be that the transitions from the present day to the past and back were not always smooth and could be a little hard to follow.  However, the story is still enjoyable and has a few unexpected twists that leave you wondering just what is going to happen next.

As a cosplayer, the characters' outfits were described very clearly and I really enjoyed picturing the possible costumes from Orson’s magician attire complete with white gloves and a cape to Agatha’s shiny white assistant’s dress that gets covered in fake blood.  

As a teacher, I can see myself including this book on a shelf for students to read for fun.  Especially middle school and younger high school ages who are going through a lot of change in their lives.  It’s always good when students can find a way to relate to characters in a book and though the challenges and changes Orson is facing are not quite what students may be facing, his determination, nervousness, and other emotions are completely relatable.  Most want to make their families proud and succeed and Orson is no different.

As asked many times in the story, do you believe?  If so, give this fun story a chance.  It is available on Amazon.  https://www.amazon.com/Orson-Great-Colm-McElwain/dp/1399945696/

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