Aster and the Accidental Magic

January 6, 2020
Transplanted from a city to a small countryside town, Aster, 10, anticipates weeks of loneliness and boredom. But while exploring a nearby mountain, she encounters a strange old woman with a herd of woolly dogs who offers Aster one of her own: Buzz, whose presence ensures that “the mountain will always look after you.” The two stumble into adventure when they find a clearing inhabited by a mischievous spirit who grants Aster three wishes. Her first, being able to speak with Buzz, results in unexpected comic chaos that embroils Aster in an escalating series of reality-distorting magical escapades. In a second story, Aster must aid seasonal guardians in a transition of power. Friendly, accessible cartooning from Karensac lights up Pico’s whimsical world, endowing the offbeat characters and adorable creatures with a look simultaneously idiosyncratic and familiar. Aster’s confidence, impulsiveness, and quick thinking combine to create a strong and sympathetic heroine, and the supporting cast, including Buzz and a trio of diminutive chestnut knights, fills out the world with memorable personalities. Spirited adventure and an oddball sense of humor make this a promising start to a series that will be perfect for fans of the Hilda comics. Ages 8–12.

March 15, 2020
Grades 3-6 Two separate but linked adventures introduce Aster, who isn't pleased when her family moves from the city to the mountains. Forced to drop her video games and explore the valley, she literally stumbles upon a magical being known as the Trickster Rapscallion, who offers her three wishes. Of course, the wishes don't go quite as planned, and Aster must scramble to rectify her mistakes and prevent a coming catastrophe. The second adventure sees her contending with the fox spirit of autumn after a magical mishap causes the mountain?and time itself?to fall out of balance. Fast-paced action and adventure make for a winning combination when joined with Karensac's charming character design and bold pastel colors. As the story expands, so too does its world, as Aster is aided by a series of lovable side characters, including a talking dog, a mysterious old shepherd woman, and a trio of Chestnut Knights?tiny, cloaked warriors who steal the show. A joyous middle-grade romp for fans of Ben Hatke.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)