You’re never too old for a little magic.

The title of this first novel in the Touchstone trilogy refers to the different hidden tribes living in the Royal Forest, aka a wooded, undeveloped area on Mill Farms, a property in Somerset, England owned by Midge’s uncle. Staying with him while her mother is on tour with an orchestra, Midge is quite the likable protagonist; you appreciate the earnestness of this precocious 11yo and her willingness to believe in the very real situations of the fantastical creatures she encounters. The care she provides to Pegs, an injured tiny, winged horse, is so endearing and serves as the event that starts Midge on her leg of an adventure that originally began with her great-great aunt.

While we’ve seen stories like this before — those of humans threatening the very survival of magical beings — there’s something special about this one. The author’s word choice and speech patterns for the different species are so fitting, and the story presents a kind of nostalgia while also feeling wholly its own. I think what makes this tale different than others is that slight thread of darkness throughout, highlighted by the false hierarchy of the tribes and resulting prejudice between some. All in all, The Various is a great initial installment for what I’m sure will be a charming and spirited series.