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The Amazing Adventures of Noah Minor #1
The Minor Miracle
What happens when an average kid finds out he has not-so-average powers? And what if the bad guy the CIA expects him to catch is none other than his long-lost great-uncle? Noah Minor must figure out the answers to these questions and more in this action-packed adventure for young readers.
Noah Minor is a pretty average kid. Nothing major has happened in his life except for the time he survived falling sixteen stories as a baby—and he doesn’t even remember it. As he enters seventh grade, Noah is hoping to be less average and more extraordinary like his best friends, trombone prodigy Rodney and the practically perfect Haley. But during a standard vision test, Noah learns that he can manipulate gravity and a special section of the CIA called Gravitas wants to train him. He also learns that his fall twelve years ago wasn’t an accident. It turns out his family's beloved great-uncle Saul dropped Noah as part of an illegal experiment, and is a wanted fugitive.
Noah is simply ecstatic to learn that he has “super powers” (even though Gravitas refuses to call them that), but he quickly learns that unlocking and harnessing his power isn’t so easy. Plus, it seems Gravitas only wants Noah as bait to capture his great-uncle. But is Uncle Saul really the bad guy—or just the right person to help Noah reach his full potential?
Noah Minor is a pretty average kid. Nothing major has happened in his life except for the time he survived falling sixteen stories as a baby—and he doesn’t even remember it. As he enters seventh grade, Noah is hoping to be less average and more extraordinary like his best friends, trombone prodigy Rodney and the practically perfect Haley. But during a standard vision test, Noah learns that he can manipulate gravity and a special section of the CIA called Gravitas wants to train him. He also learns that his fall twelve years ago wasn’t an accident. It turns out his family's beloved great-uncle Saul dropped Noah as part of an illegal experiment, and is a wanted fugitive.
Noah is simply ecstatic to learn that he has “super powers” (even though Gravitas refuses to call them that), but he quickly learns that unlocking and harnessing his power isn’t so easy. Plus, it seems Gravitas only wants Noah as bait to capture his great-uncle. But is Uncle Saul really the bad guy—or just the right person to help Noah reach his full potential?
272 pages, Paperback
Published May 7, 2024
About the author
Meredith Davis
3 books23 followersMeredith Davis is the author of THE MINOR MIRACLE, and THE MINOR RESCUE (Waterbrook '24/'25)) and co-author of HER OWN TWO FEET: A RWANDAN GIRL’S BRAVE FIGHT TO WALK (Scholastic, 2019). Once upon a time she worked at Toad Hall, an independent children’s bookstore, started the Austin Chapter of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), traveled her way through thirty-five countries in nine and a half months, and earned her Masters of Fine Arts in Writing for Children and Young Adults at Vermont College of Fine Arts. She is married with three children and lives with a home full of books in Austin, Texas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
May 6, 2024
2.5 stars, personally. Not really my cup of tea (too much barf and fart comments 😐), but some middle-grade boys will probably enjoy it more!
About this book:
“What happens when an average kid finds out he has not-so-average powers? And what if the bad guy the CIA expects him to catch is none other than his long-lost great-uncle? Noah Minor must figure out the answers to these questions and more in this action-packed adventure for young readers.
Noah Minor is a pretty average kid. Nothing major has happened in his life except for the time he survived falling sixteen stories as a baby—and he doesn’t even remember it. As he enters seventh grade, Noah is hoping to be less average and more extraordinary like his best friends, trombone prodigy Rodney and the practically perfect Haley. But during a standard vision test, Noah learns that he can manipulate gravity and a special section of the CIA called Gravitas wants to train him. He also learns that his fall twelve years ago wasn’t an accident. It turns out his family's beloved great-uncle Saul dropped Noah as part of an illegal experiment, and is a wanted fugitive.
Noah is simply ecstatic to learn that he has “super powers” (even though Gravitas refuses to call them that), but he quickly learns that unlocking and harnessing his power isn’t so easy. Plus, it seems Gravitas only wants Noah as bait to capture his great-uncle. But is Uncle Saul really the bad guy—or just the right person to help Noah reach his full potential?”
Series: Currently unsure if this book is a stand-alone novel or the first book in a series.
Spiritual Content- Three prayers; This book is called “The Minor Miracle” because Noah’s last name is Minor and he was tossed off of a tall apartment as a baby and survived; Mentions of this miracle with Noah calling himself “The Minor Miracle” as his superhero name and other ones (which are more teasing/flippant between Noah and his friends); A few mentions of God; A couple mentions of those & events in the Bible; A couple mentions of praying;
*Note: No magic in this book, instead Noah’s and others’ powers are inherited & Noah has to learn how to properly use them (one feature of his powers is called The Cling which happens when he has a rush of emotions and causes his clothes to stick to him (which he says makes him a ‘freak’); Noah is able to manipulate gravity and learns how to do that along with others shown it including being able to “fly” (rise towards the ceiling); Noah and others use a pendant made from a meteorite to help focus on their abilities; A few mentions of these abilities not being superpowers or any kind of “superhero hocus-pocus”; A couple mentions of a group of people being convinced that Noah’s uncle is evil; A couple mentions of a musician’s idol (another musician); A mention of a bully walking around “like a god” at school; A mention of it feeling like a bully is harnessing all “the dark forces of middle school”; A mention of something sitting like it’s on a sacrificial altar.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘duh’, a ‘shoot’, a ‘turd’, two ‘dumb’s, two ‘heck’s, two ‘shut up’s, four ‘idiots’s, six forms of ‘screw up’, and eight ‘stupid’s; Eye rolling & Sarcasm; The possibility of nearly dying, Pain, Passing out, & Throwing up (up to semi-detailed); The prologue starts with a reporter seeing a baby (Noah) being dropped from a tall building (by a family member) but the baby is okay (up to semi-detailed, *Spoiler* ); Noah is threatened with being “suppressed” (erasing specific memories) by Gravitas if he tells others (including his parents) about them or to forgot his abilities if he can’t pass their tests (he has to wear a bugged bracelet so they know if he talks about them); At first Noah thinks he’s being threatened by a man with a gun and is scared by it, but it’s actually a device that loops sound; Noah promises to let Gravitas know if his uncle contacts him, but does not (*Spoilers* *Major Spoiler* Noah tells Haley towards the end what is happening with his uncle and Noah feels very bad about his actions causing problems for his friends; They plan to trick his uncle, but he ties them up (and tapes their eyes) and threatens Haley with a syringe that could kill her (we see two illustrations of this); The uncle drops Haley off of the roof when she’s unconscious and Noah dives after her (an illustration is shown); Noah realizes that his uncle is as dangerous as everyone has been telling him; Due to not telling an adult with Gravitas about this, Noah is punished with clean-up and potentially other consequences *End of Spoilers*); Noah practices his abilities even though he was told not to outside of class & figures that Gravitas never has to know (*Spoiler* ); Noah lies twice & tells not-quite-a-lie a couple times to his mom and friends; Noah faces a bully often & comes up with comic-book inspired names for him (such as ‘an insufferable clod’, ‘villain’, ‘scoundrel’, ‘scourge of the earth’, ‘feckless dolt’, ‘nattering nimrod’, and a ‘turd burglar’); The bully taunts (calling Noah and his friends ‘dorks’ and ‘freaks’) and threatens Noah and his friends, so later Noah plays a few pranks on him (such as using his powers to pull the food or drink from the bully’s mouth and making him look gross; *Spoiler* ); Noah gets upset that his friend is so “perfect” and makes snippy/snide remarks towards her & also gets upset at her (but tries to catch himself a few of the times); Mentions of thieves, thefts, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of sedating someone & threatening to do that to others who don’t listen (a villain); Mentions of fights & fighting; Mentions of pain, injuries, & passing out; Mentions of a bully, his mean taunts/teasing, & bullying; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of butts, farts (also called “butt belches”), burping, throwing up, & jokes about it; A few mentions of threatening to kill a child (a villain); A couple mentions of a divorce & a father deserting his family; A mention of kidnapping; A mention of poison darts; A mention of a bomb; A mention of a wildfire; A mention of a dictator; A mention of jealousy; A mention of a nightmare;
*Note: Noah isn’t sure who to trust or believe (Gravitas or his uncle); Noah feels like a disappointment to Gravitas; Noah feels like he’s too old to pretend about being a superhero & play with action figures with a younger boy (the latter one is because he doesn’t want Gravitas to think of him as immature so even though it pains him, he gives away his superhero items); Noah wants others to think of him as incredible (he plans for others at his school to finally know his name and wants to be a hero, which is why he is embarrassed when other people stare at or whisper about him); Noah is embarrassed by his mom taking pictures of him on his first day of an activity (he’s glad that she doesn’t try to come inside with him); Noah has a moment of being happy about a mean boy being annoyed by something; Noah & his friends go trick-or-treating on Halloween; Mentions of Halloween; Mentions of a fictional character & TV show in this book about kids who turn into animals (one of a boy turning into a wolf is shown in an illustration); Mentions of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade & fictional characters (Peter Parker, Hello Kitty, Smurfs, Snoopy, & Buzz Lightyear); Mentions of a musician (Dizzy Gillespie) & a song (“We Will Rock You”); A couple mentions of Noah feeling like he’s a freak; A couple mentions of a brand name (Gatorade); A mention of a ride at Six Flags; A mention of a movie (Sleepless in Seattle); A mention of Noah and his friend watching a scary movie; A mention of an American flag resting on the floor after an storm.
Sexual Content- A cheek kiss (shown also as an illustration); Noah holds on to a girl’s waist to protect her, tries to hold her tighter to warm her, and she presses her cheek against his (not completely romance-inclined until the end and with Noah thinking the girl would be saying “My hero!” if it was a comic); Noah notices a pretty girl; Noah’s friend, Rodney, teases him and their mutual friend (Haley) about being a couple someday (Noah thinks of her like a sister in the beginning); Mentions of dates to a school dance & asking others out for it; A few mentions of kisses & kissing; A couple mentions of crushes & crushing on someone; A couple mentions of a boy in Noah’s class shaving and wearing a tight shirt so that others notice his muscles;
*Note: In the illustrations of the cast of characters at the beginning of the book, one of the girls is wearing an oversized sweater that shows her cami strap & another girl is wearing a midriff showing cropped jacket (this can be seen on the Amazon page for this book Here); In another illustration, Haley wears short-shorts; Mentions of butts, farts (also called “butt belches”), & throwing up; A few mentions of a young man’s pants coming off in a training test and it revealing his boxer shorts with a dog on the butt & Noah making note to wear boxers and not briefs to his test (two comic-book style illustrations included); A few mentions of puberty.
-Noah Minor, age 12
1st person P.O.V. of Noah (Prologue in a reporter’s P.O.V.)
272 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- Two Stars
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
{ Add a full star for girls with brothers and/or a fan of superheroes and comic books.}
This was different! A bit too boyish to me, but it was an interesting concept.
I didn’t care for the superhero organization making Noah wear a bugged bracelet and threatening to wipe Noah’s memories if he talked about them. With them and Noah’s mad scientist uncle, I wasn’t sure who Noah should trust—if either side really is good because they both seemed questionable. The ending made sense and there was a bit of character development and lessons for Noah.
I will say that I didn’t quite get all the superhero power stuff, but that could be because how it was explained. This was not my cup of tea, but some middle-grade readers may enjoy it more.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (WaterBrook) for this honest review.
About this book:
“What happens when an average kid finds out he has not-so-average powers? And what if the bad guy the CIA expects him to catch is none other than his long-lost great-uncle? Noah Minor must figure out the answers to these questions and more in this action-packed adventure for young readers.
Noah Minor is a pretty average kid. Nothing major has happened in his life except for the time he survived falling sixteen stories as a baby—and he doesn’t even remember it. As he enters seventh grade, Noah is hoping to be less average and more extraordinary like his best friends, trombone prodigy Rodney and the practically perfect Haley. But during a standard vision test, Noah learns that he can manipulate gravity and a special section of the CIA called Gravitas wants to train him. He also learns that his fall twelve years ago wasn’t an accident. It turns out his family's beloved great-uncle Saul dropped Noah as part of an illegal experiment, and is a wanted fugitive.
Noah is simply ecstatic to learn that he has “super powers” (even though Gravitas refuses to call them that), but he quickly learns that unlocking and harnessing his power isn’t so easy. Plus, it seems Gravitas only wants Noah as bait to capture his great-uncle. But is Uncle Saul really the bad guy—or just the right person to help Noah reach his full potential?”
Series: Currently unsure if this book is a stand-alone novel or the first book in a series.
Spiritual Content- Three prayers; This book is called “The Minor Miracle” because Noah’s last name is Minor and he was tossed off of a tall apartment as a baby and survived; Mentions of this miracle with Noah calling himself “The Minor Miracle” as his superhero name and other ones (which are more teasing/flippant between Noah and his friends); A few mentions of God; A couple mentions of those & events in the Bible; A couple mentions of praying;
*Note: No magic in this book, instead Noah’s and others’ powers are inherited & Noah has to learn how to properly use them (one feature of his powers is called The Cling which happens when he has a rush of emotions and causes his clothes to stick to him (which he says makes him a ‘freak’); Noah is able to manipulate gravity and learns how to do that along with others shown it including being able to “fly” (rise towards the ceiling); Noah and others use a pendant made from a meteorite to help focus on their abilities; A few mentions of these abilities not being superpowers or any kind of “superhero hocus-pocus”; A couple mentions of a group of people being convinced that Noah’s uncle is evil; A couple mentions of a musician’s idol (another musician); A mention of a bully walking around “like a god” at school; A mention of it feeling like a bully is harnessing all “the dark forces of middle school”; A mention of something sitting like it’s on a sacrificial altar.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘duh’, a ‘shoot’, a ‘turd’, two ‘dumb’s, two ‘heck’s, two ‘shut up’s, four ‘idiots’s, six forms of ‘screw up’, and eight ‘stupid’s; Eye rolling & Sarcasm; The possibility of nearly dying, Pain, Passing out, & Throwing up (up to semi-detailed); The prologue starts with a reporter seeing a baby (Noah) being dropped from a tall building (by a family member) but the baby is okay (up to semi-detailed, *Spoiler* ); Noah is threatened with being “suppressed” (erasing specific memories) by Gravitas if he tells others (including his parents) about them or to forgot his abilities if he can’t pass their tests (he has to wear a bugged bracelet so they know if he talks about them); At first Noah thinks he’s being threatened by a man with a gun and is scared by it, but it’s actually a device that loops sound; Noah promises to let Gravitas know if his uncle contacts him, but does not (*Spoilers* *Major Spoiler* Noah tells Haley towards the end what is happening with his uncle and Noah feels very bad about his actions causing problems for his friends; They plan to trick his uncle, but he ties them up (and tapes their eyes) and threatens Haley with a syringe that could kill her (we see two illustrations of this); The uncle drops Haley off of the roof when she’s unconscious and Noah dives after her (an illustration is shown); Noah realizes that his uncle is as dangerous as everyone has been telling him; Due to not telling an adult with Gravitas about this, Noah is punished with clean-up and potentially other consequences *End of Spoilers*); Noah practices his abilities even though he was told not to outside of class & figures that Gravitas never has to know (*Spoiler* ); Noah lies twice & tells not-quite-a-lie a couple times to his mom and friends; Noah faces a bully often & comes up with comic-book inspired names for him (such as ‘an insufferable clod’, ‘villain’, ‘scoundrel’, ‘scourge of the earth’, ‘feckless dolt’, ‘nattering nimrod’, and a ‘turd burglar’); The bully taunts (calling Noah and his friends ‘dorks’ and ‘freaks’) and threatens Noah and his friends, so later Noah plays a few pranks on him (such as using his powers to pull the food or drink from the bully’s mouth and making him look gross; *Spoiler* ); Noah gets upset that his friend is so “perfect” and makes snippy/snide remarks towards her & also gets upset at her (but tries to catch himself a few of the times); Mentions of thieves, thefts, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of sedating someone & threatening to do that to others who don’t listen (a villain); Mentions of fights & fighting; Mentions of pain, injuries, & passing out; Mentions of a bully, his mean taunts/teasing, & bullying; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of butts, farts (also called “butt belches”), burping, throwing up, & jokes about it; A few mentions of threatening to kill a child (a villain); A couple mentions of a divorce & a father deserting his family; A mention of kidnapping; A mention of poison darts; A mention of a bomb; A mention of a wildfire; A mention of a dictator; A mention of jealousy; A mention of a nightmare;
*Note: Noah isn’t sure who to trust or believe (Gravitas or his uncle); Noah feels like a disappointment to Gravitas; Noah feels like he’s too old to pretend about being a superhero & play with action figures with a younger boy (the latter one is because he doesn’t want Gravitas to think of him as immature so even though it pains him, he gives away his superhero items); Noah wants others to think of him as incredible (he plans for others at his school to finally know his name and wants to be a hero, which is why he is embarrassed when other people stare at or whisper about him); Noah is embarrassed by his mom taking pictures of him on his first day of an activity (he’s glad that she doesn’t try to come inside with him); Noah has a moment of being happy about a mean boy being annoyed by something; Noah & his friends go trick-or-treating on Halloween; Mentions of Halloween; Mentions of a fictional character & TV show in this book about kids who turn into animals (one of a boy turning into a wolf is shown in an illustration); Mentions of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade & fictional characters (Peter Parker, Hello Kitty, Smurfs, Snoopy, & Buzz Lightyear); Mentions of a musician (Dizzy Gillespie) & a song (“We Will Rock You”); A couple mentions of Noah feeling like he’s a freak; A couple mentions of a brand name (Gatorade); A mention of a ride at Six Flags; A mention of a movie (Sleepless in Seattle); A mention of Noah and his friend watching a scary movie; A mention of an American flag resting on the floor after an storm.
Sexual Content- A cheek kiss (shown also as an illustration); Noah holds on to a girl’s waist to protect her, tries to hold her tighter to warm her, and she presses her cheek against his (not completely romance-inclined until the end and with Noah thinking the girl would be saying “My hero!” if it was a comic); Noah notices a pretty girl; Noah’s friend, Rodney, teases him and their mutual friend (Haley) about being a couple someday (Noah thinks of her like a sister in the beginning); Mentions of dates to a school dance & asking others out for it; A few mentions of kisses & kissing; A couple mentions of crushes & crushing on someone; A couple mentions of a boy in Noah’s class shaving and wearing a tight shirt so that others notice his muscles;
*Note: In the illustrations of the cast of characters at the beginning of the book, one of the girls is wearing an oversized sweater that shows her cami strap & another girl is wearing a midriff showing cropped jacket (this can be seen on the Amazon page for this book Here); In another illustration, Haley wears short-shorts; Mentions of butts, farts (also called “butt belches”), & throwing up; A few mentions of a young man’s pants coming off in a training test and it revealing his boxer shorts with a dog on the butt & Noah making note to wear boxers and not briefs to his test (two comic-book style illustrations included); A few mentions of puberty.
-Noah Minor, age 12
1st person P.O.V. of Noah (Prologue in a reporter’s P.O.V.)
272 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- Two Stars
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
{ Add a full star for girls with brothers and/or a fan of superheroes and comic books.}
This was different! A bit too boyish to me, but it was an interesting concept.
I didn’t care for the superhero organization making Noah wear a bugged bracelet and threatening to wipe Noah’s memories if he talked about them. With them and Noah’s mad scientist uncle, I wasn’t sure who Noah should trust—if either side really is good because they both seemed questionable. The ending made sense and there was a bit of character development and lessons for Noah.
I will say that I didn’t quite get all the superhero power stuff, but that could be because how it was explained. This was not my cup of tea, but some middle-grade readers may enjoy it more.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (WaterBrook) for this honest review.
May 16, 2024
I really enjoyed this unexpected gem about Noah Minor, a kid who was dropped from a balcony by his uncle when he was a baby and miraculously survived. The story is told from his point of view, which worked very well for this story. Noah has two best friends who he constantly thinks of as amazing, while he is boring, untalented, and not the miracle that his origins might make you think he is. But I love that as he starts to learn about who he is, he is both competitive and frustrated with himself--it's all very realistic (well except the magic powers stuff, lol). I really liked his friends, Rodney and Haley, and they really added to the story. I thought it was genius how Rodney helped him learn control. I also liked that although he is apparently the "chosen one" at least according to some, he makes mistakes and bad choices, but he also learns about forgiving himself and others. This was alot of fun, and I hope that it will become a series. I would recommend this for middle school readers, especially those who like books about superheroes, adventures, and music.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 19, 2024
If you enjoyed the movie The Incredibles, then you will enjoy this fast paced superhero middle grade read. Noah Minor was dropped from a balcony as a child and survived. No one knew how he had lived, and so Noah was nicknamed the Minor Miracle. As Noah grows up, he compares himself to his friends Haley and Rodney as he thinks they are extraordinary while he is just ordinary. Noah wants to have superpowers like the heroes in his comic books, and one day during a vision test he finds out that it wasn’t really a vision test, but a test that determines that he is able to manipulate gravity. With newly found superpowers and a secret agency that trains Noah how to use his abilities, Noah learns some valuable lessons about trust, friendship and doing the right thing.
I want to thank Meredith Davis, WaterBrook & Multnomah and NetGalley for a copy of the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
I want to thank Meredith Davis, WaterBrook & Multnomah and NetGalley for a copy of the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 29, 2025
Contemporary, city superhero and villain to the style of Marvel and Spider-Man (which is the main character's present favorite hero, and he keeps the famous quote about responsibility near for the entire book).
Noah's uncle dropped him from a sixteen-story high building, and Noah survived. Although he continues to live an uneventful childhood when he hits puberty, he awakens a power. He is a Gravitas and can control gravitation, and he is not the only one. He needs to put some effort into secret training to control his power so that one day, when he is an adult, he can become an agent to protect all that is true, good, and beautiful. But he is impatient and sometimes acts like a vigilante (if other people notice this power, they will have their memory erased).
It's a fun, amazing trio of characters, well-balanced. They complement each other with humor and action adventure.
This is the first volume in a series, so Noah is not certain (yet) whom to trust. The Gravitas or his family. Is his uncle really the villain? Does he have an evil plan?
Because of his doubts, he keeps this information to himself, uncertain of which team to side with until it's almost too late.
Our heroes don't quite save the day completely at the end of book 1. There is a lot to learn and do as the villain gets stronger.
Perfect for superhero/action/adventure fans like Marvel and The Incredibles.
The three main characters: Noah is learning about a new power, Rodney has a wonderful innate talent for music (it's sad what happems to him), Haley excells at everything she puts her mind into.
Very fun city heroes series with illustrations.
Noah's uncle dropped him from a sixteen-story high building, and Noah survived. Although he continues to live an uneventful childhood when he hits puberty, he awakens a power. He is a Gravitas and can control gravitation, and he is not the only one. He needs to put some effort into secret training to control his power so that one day, when he is an adult, he can become an agent to protect all that is true, good, and beautiful. But he is impatient and sometimes acts like a vigilante (if other people notice this power, they will have their memory erased).
It's a fun, amazing trio of characters, well-balanced. They complement each other with humor and action adventure.
This is the first volume in a series, so Noah is not certain (yet) whom to trust. The Gravitas or his family. Is his uncle really the villain? Does he have an evil plan?
Because of his doubts, he keeps this information to himself, uncertain of which team to side with until it's almost too late.
Our heroes don't quite save the day completely at the end of book 1. There is a lot to learn and do as the villain gets stronger.
Perfect for superhero/action/adventure fans like Marvel and The Incredibles.
The three main characters: Noah is learning about a new power, Rodney has a wonderful innate talent for music (it's sad what happems to him), Haley excells at everything she puts her mind into.
Very fun city heroes series with illustrations.
May 7, 2024
We were lucky enough to get an advanced copy of this book from the publisher which is great because my 11-year-old loved it! She said, “It was wonderful. I want to keep it forever so I can give it to my children and force them to read it.” 😂
I also enjoyed the book. I liked that the protagonist, Noah Minor, had to face consequences for his choices. So often that’s not the case with ‘chosen one’ storylines and I think it’s an important lesson for kids learn. Highly recommend for middle grade readers!
I also enjoyed the book. I liked that the protagonist, Noah Minor, had to face consequences for his choices. So often that’s not the case with ‘chosen one’ storylines and I think it’s an important lesson for kids learn. Highly recommend for middle grade readers!
July 4, 2025
If you had superpower, what would they be? I would love to be able to time travel! 😆
The Minor Miracle is a middle grade book that story is about Noah Minor. He always want to be a extraordinary kid and be a superhero and have a cool power. But in reality he just a average kid.
If there is something special about him, he survived falling sixteen stories as a baby. How can is that possible? Well, he doesn’t remember about it.
Noah has two bestfriend trombone prodigy Rodney and the practically perfect Haley. They’re been friends since kids and Noah hope he can be extraordinary like them.
His hope finally happened! During a standard vision test, Noah know the truth that he can manipulate the gravity! And on top of that, a special section of CIA called Gravitas want to recruit and train him!
Noah also finally know the truth that his fall that happened twelve years ago was not an accident. It’s his great uncle Paul who dropped him as a part his illegall experiment.
Even though Noah is excited to learn his super power and reach his potential, the Gravitas refuse to acknowledge it. They seems only use him as a bait to capture his great uncle. Noah starting to think, is uncle Saul the bad guy, or he is the right person to help him to reach his full potential?
__________________________
I had so much fun reading this book! Middle grade books are always my comfort reads.
Noah and his dream to be a superhero and the fact that he does have superpowers! I could really feel his frustration when he finally discovers his powers but struggles to control them.
I love Noah’s friendship with his best friends, how much they care for each other and always have each other’s backs.
I liked that the story is fast-paced and full of action. And the illustrations in the book are truly amazing! They made my reading experience feel more alive.
I also liked Noah’s character development. I didn’t expect him to be wise, he’s just a kid with superpowers. He made some poor choices and wasn’t patient enough to learn how to use his powers, but in the end, he learned a valuable lesson.
I can’t wait to read the second one, because the story isn’t over yet! 😍🔥
The Minor Miracle is a middle grade book that story is about Noah Minor. He always want to be a extraordinary kid and be a superhero and have a cool power. But in reality he just a average kid.
If there is something special about him, he survived falling sixteen stories as a baby. How can is that possible? Well, he doesn’t remember about it.
Noah has two bestfriend trombone prodigy Rodney and the practically perfect Haley. They’re been friends since kids and Noah hope he can be extraordinary like them.
His hope finally happened! During a standard vision test, Noah know the truth that he can manipulate the gravity! And on top of that, a special section of CIA called Gravitas want to recruit and train him!
Noah also finally know the truth that his fall that happened twelve years ago was not an accident. It’s his great uncle Paul who dropped him as a part his illegall experiment.
Even though Noah is excited to learn his super power and reach his potential, the Gravitas refuse to acknowledge it. They seems only use him as a bait to capture his great uncle. Noah starting to think, is uncle Saul the bad guy, or he is the right person to help him to reach his full potential?
__________________________
I had so much fun reading this book! Middle grade books are always my comfort reads.
Noah and his dream to be a superhero and the fact that he does have superpowers! I could really feel his frustration when he finally discovers his powers but struggles to control them.
I love Noah’s friendship with his best friends, how much they care for each other and always have each other’s backs.
I liked that the story is fast-paced and full of action. And the illustrations in the book are truly amazing! They made my reading experience feel more alive.
I also liked Noah’s character development. I didn’t expect him to be wise, he’s just a kid with superpowers. He made some poor choices and wasn’t patient enough to learn how to use his powers, but in the end, he learned a valuable lesson.
I can’t wait to read the second one, because the story isn’t over yet! 😍🔥
June 17, 2024
Noah Minor was dropped off a balcony as a baby and survived! Noah is now in the 7th grade and finds that he has superpowers. He is recruited by a secret agency called Gravitas to be trained to work for the government. An engaging story for young readers with lots of action. A middle grade adventure.
April 8, 2024
Adorable middle grade book!! Great transition book from graphic novels to longer content!
July 9, 2024
This is such a fun middle grade read (even for old guys)…I am totally in for seeing what happens to these amazing characters next.
Bravo for this debut fiction work!
Bravo for this debut fiction work!
March 11, 2024
The Minor Miracle was a fun book for kids. It was an interesting story. Grabbed my attention right away. I feel as if this will be a great series for middle school kids. The characters are interesting. The plot keeps you on your toes. You're not always sure who is good and who isn't. It's a good story.
I really enjoyed how we saw everything through the eyes of this special young man who didn't realize that he had special abilities. It also has some neat twists and turns. Once I got to a certain point I could see a bit of where it was going and who was the good guys and bad guys. It did take me a bit though. It kind of leaves you asking a few questions about a couple characters so I hope this will be a series. I would like to find out more in the future.
The illustrations are good. What I would expect for a middle school book. Some of the characters are not what I see in my head when I read about them but that is the beauty of books. We all can imagine the characters how we think they look. I would recommend this book to mom's of kids who enjoy super hero stories.
I really enjoyed how we saw everything through the eyes of this special young man who didn't realize that he had special abilities. It also has some neat twists and turns. Once I got to a certain point I could see a bit of where it was going and who was the good guys and bad guys. It did take me a bit though. It kind of leaves you asking a few questions about a couple characters so I hope this will be a series. I would like to find out more in the future.
The illustrations are good. What I would expect for a middle school book. Some of the characters are not what I see in my head when I read about them but that is the beauty of books. We all can imagine the characters how we think they look. I would recommend this book to mom's of kids who enjoy super hero stories.
February 17, 2025
The Minor Miracle is a funny and heartwarming story about friendship, trust, and what it means to be super. Any kid (or adult!) can relate to Noah’s struggles to find himself and his place in middle school as well as in the secret world of superheroes. Readers will fall in love with Noah and his friends!
Highly recommend for any kids or grown ups who need a reminder that they are super, too!
Highly recommend for any kids or grown ups who need a reminder that they are super, too!
January 15, 2025
Fabulous and funny! Every kid gets to dream about becoming a superhero, but few if any actually succeed. Will Noah?
You’ll have to read the book to find out!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. My review was not solicited and is completely honest.
You’ll have to read the book to find out!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. My review was not solicited and is completely honest.
February 21, 2025
I loved this book, even at 62! I thought the characters were so endearing and the details in the story fun, plus mystery and humor.
May 26, 2024
Spy Kids meets Marvel and XMen in this new middle grade/middle school novel from Meredith Davis!
Seventh grader Noah Minor made headlines as a baby when he miraculously survived a fall from a sixteen story building, but other than ‘The Cling’ (which activates in moments of high emotion & involves his clothes or blankets/sheets clinging to him like shrink wrap) he’s been basically ordinary ever since. Just like his best friends, trumpet-playing Rodney and planner-at-the-ready Haley. He loves comic books and superheroes though, so he’s initially ecstatic to learn that he can actually manipulate gravity and that a top-secret government agency wants to train him to use his powers to help save the world. Being a superhero/spy isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, though, and Noah faces a lot of hard work and several startling surprises too!
This is a great book for young readers who love graphic novels, thanks to the comic-style illustrations from Billy Yong and the bolded/enlarged onomatopoeia in the text. Which also means if you’re a teacher/librarian or parent who wants to help your student transition from strictly graphic novels to longer chapter books, The Minor Miracle fits the bill nicely. Along with the fun story, middle grade & middle school kiddos will encounter truth about friendship, integrity, perseverance, self control, and living bravely. I also enjoyed how the superpowers that Gravitas harnesses are a mix of science & imagination, and I can easily see how that could encourage the reader to explore further knowledge in physics and space sciences on their own.
Bottom Line: Humor, heart, and super heroics – along with some great life lessons – await young readers on the pages of The Minor Miracle by Meredith Davis. Noah, Haley, and Rodney are a terrific trio of friends, and they navigate some crazy things in the most important way – together. The scattered illustrations from Billy Yong add to the comic book vibes and I thought they were really fun. Boys in particular will enjoy the middle school humor, but this story will appeal to girls too, especially those who dream of being Carmen Cortez or Storm or even Hermione Granger. I am excited to hear that a second book is on the way, and I hope for a variety of reasons that Rodney gets his own adventure (that he’ll remember) this time.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Seventh grader Noah Minor made headlines as a baby when he miraculously survived a fall from a sixteen story building, but other than ‘The Cling’ (which activates in moments of high emotion & involves his clothes or blankets/sheets clinging to him like shrink wrap) he’s been basically ordinary ever since. Just like his best friends, trumpet-playing Rodney and planner-at-the-ready Haley. He loves comic books and superheroes though, so he’s initially ecstatic to learn that he can actually manipulate gravity and that a top-secret government agency wants to train him to use his powers to help save the world. Being a superhero/spy isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, though, and Noah faces a lot of hard work and several startling surprises too!
This is a great book for young readers who love graphic novels, thanks to the comic-style illustrations from Billy Yong and the bolded/enlarged onomatopoeia in the text. Which also means if you’re a teacher/librarian or parent who wants to help your student transition from strictly graphic novels to longer chapter books, The Minor Miracle fits the bill nicely. Along with the fun story, middle grade & middle school kiddos will encounter truth about friendship, integrity, perseverance, self control, and living bravely. I also enjoyed how the superpowers that Gravitas harnesses are a mix of science & imagination, and I can easily see how that could encourage the reader to explore further knowledge in physics and space sciences on their own.
Bottom Line: Humor, heart, and super heroics – along with some great life lessons – await young readers on the pages of The Minor Miracle by Meredith Davis. Noah, Haley, and Rodney are a terrific trio of friends, and they navigate some crazy things in the most important way – together. The scattered illustrations from Billy Yong add to the comic book vibes and I thought they were really fun. Boys in particular will enjoy the middle school humor, but this story will appeal to girls too, especially those who dream of being Carmen Cortez or Storm or even Hermione Granger. I am excited to hear that a second book is on the way, and I hope for a variety of reasons that Rodney gets his own adventure (that he’ll remember) this time.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 4, 2024
The elusive world of spies meets superhero adventure with excitement, heart, and the difficult question of who can really be trusted.
Noah's only had one amazing moment in his life; he survived falling sixteen stories and hitting the ground as a baby. Since then, his life has been more than average. His two best friends add the only excitement to his life, one being a talented trombone player and the other almost perfect in everything. When a usual vision test suddenly has him pulled into a secret room and told he has the power to manipulate gravity, everything changes. Not only is he sucked into the CIA group, Gravitas, for training, but he's immediately given a tiny mission. His great-uncle is a wanted fugitive with superpowers, too, and Noah needs to inform the CIA when his uncle reaches out to him. But things aren't that black and white, especially when Noah learns that his uncle is the only one who knows how powerful Noah really is and is the only one who can help him reach his full potential.
Noah is an easy character to connect with. He starts as an average kid with average problems, nothing over-the-top but normal, day-to-day issues middle graders often face. The relationship to his family is good but not perfect, and his friends have his back, although even that isn't without its ups and downs. When his superpowers hit, his attitude is understandable, for the most part, and makes him easy to root for. He might be over-powered, but this brings its own set of problems...many of which add humorous moments.
Action mixes with humor, while the hurdles offer depth and add heart. Noah has a lot to learn, especially in the superpower realm. This comes with errors and frustration, especially since it rubs against a bit of jealousy he's been harboring. The area of friend and family relations holds the center of the read as these are tested and prodded in unexpected ways. But then, saving the world, no matter how small the part in the mission might first seem, tends to be an adventurous undertaking with difficult and dangerous surprises.
It's an easy, quick read, which flows well. There are a few hiccups in the logic, but nothing which bothers the stories fun and messages. It's a fun adventure for superhero fans or those, who just enjoy an action-packed adventure. I received a DRC and enjoyed the adventure quite a bit.
Noah's only had one amazing moment in his life; he survived falling sixteen stories and hitting the ground as a baby. Since then, his life has been more than average. His two best friends add the only excitement to his life, one being a talented trombone player and the other almost perfect in everything. When a usual vision test suddenly has him pulled into a secret room and told he has the power to manipulate gravity, everything changes. Not only is he sucked into the CIA group, Gravitas, for training, but he's immediately given a tiny mission. His great-uncle is a wanted fugitive with superpowers, too, and Noah needs to inform the CIA when his uncle reaches out to him. But things aren't that black and white, especially when Noah learns that his uncle is the only one who knows how powerful Noah really is and is the only one who can help him reach his full potential.
Noah is an easy character to connect with. He starts as an average kid with average problems, nothing over-the-top but normal, day-to-day issues middle graders often face. The relationship to his family is good but not perfect, and his friends have his back, although even that isn't without its ups and downs. When his superpowers hit, his attitude is understandable, for the most part, and makes him easy to root for. He might be over-powered, but this brings its own set of problems...many of which add humorous moments.
Action mixes with humor, while the hurdles offer depth and add heart. Noah has a lot to learn, especially in the superpower realm. This comes with errors and frustration, especially since it rubs against a bit of jealousy he's been harboring. The area of friend and family relations holds the center of the read as these are tested and prodded in unexpected ways. But then, saving the world, no matter how small the part in the mission might first seem, tends to be an adventurous undertaking with difficult and dangerous surprises.
It's an easy, quick read, which flows well. There are a few hiccups in the logic, but nothing which bothers the stories fun and messages. It's a fun adventure for superhero fans or those, who just enjoy an action-packed adventure. I received a DRC and enjoyed the adventure quite a bit.
May 11, 2024
Noah’s pretty average, especially compared to his trumpet-rocking best friend Rodney and practically perfect best friend Haley. Other than making the basketball A-team, as he sees it, pretty much all he has going for him is The Cling when he gets emotional and his clothes cling to him, and that’s more an inconvenience than anything else. But then he finds out that he is gifted with the ability to manipulate gravity, and his great-uncle Saul dropping him off a high-rise as an infant maybe wasn’t so accidental. Now he’s torn between trusting family and trusting the group Gravitas who promises to help him train in his powers, and having a hard time figuring out just who is right in the end.
Noah has a solid friendship with Rodney and Haley, and it is good to see how they interact and support each other. I did think their characterizations, however, tended to lean towards some stereotypes. Rodney, a chubby Black kid who practices his trumpet all the time to follow in the footsteps of Dizzy Gillespie’s jazz star. Then blonde and perfectionist Haley with her detailed planner, likely to get an invitation from the basketball A-team star. They each got more developed, but they did have these molds visible underneath their actions and words.
Another fun aspect to untangle is Uncle Saul vs Gravitas, to determine who is right – the rebel with a vision, or the established authority? I couldn’t help but feel there was a definite message in which one Noah should follow, and maybe I’m reading too much in to it, but it seemed reflective of some current ideas , which I wasn’t sure I was a fan of.
The story moves quickly, but it is clear that hard work, honesty, and caring deeply about others are very important and go a long way. Whatever progress Noah makes, whether with his abilities, or in basketball, or with his friends, it is hard-earned and worked for with determination and (mostly) focus. Oh, and the illustrations were a fun and emotive addition to the story, and complimented quite nicely the scenes they accompanied.
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This has not affected my review or rating.
Noah has a solid friendship with Rodney and Haley, and it is good to see how they interact and support each other. I did think their characterizations, however, tended to lean towards some stereotypes. Rodney, a chubby Black kid who practices his trumpet all the time to follow in the footsteps of Dizzy Gillespie’s jazz star. Then blonde and perfectionist Haley with her detailed planner, likely to get an invitation from the basketball A-team star. They each got more developed, but they did have these molds visible underneath their actions and words.
Another fun aspect to untangle is Uncle Saul vs Gravitas, to determine who is right – the rebel with a vision, or the established authority? I couldn’t help but feel there was a definite message in which one Noah should follow, and maybe I’m reading too much in to it, but it seemed reflective of some current ideas , which I wasn’t sure I was a fan of.
The story moves quickly, but it is clear that hard work, honesty, and caring deeply about others are very important and go a long way. Whatever progress Noah makes, whether with his abilities, or in basketball, or with his friends, it is hard-earned and worked for with determination and (mostly) focus. Oh, and the illustrations were a fun and emotive addition to the story, and complimented quite nicely the scenes they accompanied.
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This has not affected my review or rating.
August 17, 2024
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Minor Miracle is a fun middle grade series starter with an "everyman" protagonist (who has superpowers), written by Meredith Davis. Released 7th May 2024 by WaterBrook & Multnomah, it's 272 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.
The author is gifted at storytelling, and the narrative arc is full of action and with appealing and relatable characters. Noah is living a life that most adolescents can relate to, not super gifted academically, picked on by a school bully, and not the best on his basketball team. He's got good friends, though, and he's trying his best. He -also- has a genetic mutation which lets him (and other gravitars) manipulate gravity. Mostly his manifestation just makes his clothing cling to him in funny ways when he gets annoyed.
There are lots of forces at work behind the scenes: a mysterious uncle who dropped him off a building when he was an infant, a shadowy government agency, and surviving math tests and basketball practice.
The incidental art throughout is well rendered by Billy Yong and his simple and dynamic style complements the comic book narrative very well and is full of small details which invite a closer look.
Four stars. It's appealing and appropriate for all ages but should do especially well with the middle grade boy demographic. It would make a good choice for public or school library acquisition, home use, and gifting.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Minor Miracle is a fun middle grade series starter with an "everyman" protagonist (who has superpowers), written by Meredith Davis. Released 7th May 2024 by WaterBrook & Multnomah, it's 272 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.
The author is gifted at storytelling, and the narrative arc is full of action and with appealing and relatable characters. Noah is living a life that most adolescents can relate to, not super gifted academically, picked on by a school bully, and not the best on his basketball team. He's got good friends, though, and he's trying his best. He -also- has a genetic mutation which lets him (and other gravitars) manipulate gravity. Mostly his manifestation just makes his clothing cling to him in funny ways when he gets annoyed.
There are lots of forces at work behind the scenes: a mysterious uncle who dropped him off a building when he was an infant, a shadowy government agency, and surviving math tests and basketball practice.
The incidental art throughout is well rendered by Billy Yong and his simple and dynamic style complements the comic book narrative very well and is full of small details which invite a closer look.
Four stars. It's appealing and appropriate for all ages but should do especially well with the middle grade boy demographic. It would make a good choice for public or school library acquisition, home use, and gifting.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
August 18, 2024
A pretty decent fist of things for the middle school readership with superpowers on their wish list. Years ago, some chap went all Michael Jackson on us with a baby and a hotel balcony – but sixteen floors later, the tot was fine. That kid is now Noah, doing OK in middle school but wishing for more – and unaware of the true impact of that wish. He gets an invite to train – secretly – for a (most secret) organisation called Gravitas, which is full of secretive people (of course) that save the world, behind our backs. Did I say this was all a secret? But oh, the other secret thing about Gravitas is that they are chasing one of their agents, who went rogue then disappeared – and that man happens to be Noah's uncle, the very bloke on the balcony.
This puts Noah in a suitable quandary as we see what is generally an extended training montage play out. Whose word is to be believed – Gravitas, with all their secrets, surprises and ability, or the uncle, who promises great things for Noah? And, equally importantly, for this is a middle school read as I say, can he handle all this and keep his best friendship with his best friend, Haley? This certainly grounds this story in the things the audience know – the, er, bodily function that happens when Noah (mis)uses his new abilities is a sign this is intent on keeping all this relatable. It's just this is an origin story, with Noah providing our eyes and ears for how all this works, and for all the speed and immediacy with which these pages turn there's not that much of the real earthy, gritty plot going on.
Further books in this series will be able to show more when the explaining and introducing is all over and done with, at least. And if they rein in the naffest of bullying storylines, the principal thing stopping these books from being read by other age groups, they could easily earn four stars. This isn't too far off that, mind, so gets three and a half.
This puts Noah in a suitable quandary as we see what is generally an extended training montage play out. Whose word is to be believed – Gravitas, with all their secrets, surprises and ability, or the uncle, who promises great things for Noah? And, equally importantly, for this is a middle school read as I say, can he handle all this and keep his best friendship with his best friend, Haley? This certainly grounds this story in the things the audience know – the, er, bodily function that happens when Noah (mis)uses his new abilities is a sign this is intent on keeping all this relatable. It's just this is an origin story, with Noah providing our eyes and ears for how all this works, and for all the speed and immediacy with which these pages turn there's not that much of the real earthy, gritty plot going on.
Further books in this series will be able to show more when the explaining and introducing is all over and done with, at least. And if they rein in the naffest of bullying storylines, the principal thing stopping these books from being read by other age groups, they could easily earn four stars. This isn't too far off that, mind, so gets three and a half.
September 12, 2025
Noah Minor survived a fall from the 16th floor when he was a baby. At age twelve, he finds out why: his Great Uncle Saul knew that Noah was a Gravitar, and wanted to test out baby Noah’s superpowers. Gravitars can manipulate gravity and are of great use to the government. But Saul is a disgraced Gravitar and is on the lam from Gravitas, a branch of the CIA that trains future agents with these powers. In The Minor Miracle, readers learn how Noah begins to train at his friend Haley’s family’s karate school, in secret rooms away from other normal students. Noah struggles with keeping the secret that he has been contacted by Saul, whom Gravitas is trying to catch. Doesn’t Saul want the best for him? Maybe Noah’s Gravitas training is undermining his true powers? At the end, Noah learns whom to trust, but not before he has to recognize that he put his friends Rodney and Haley at risk. Readers will be challenged to figure out if Noah makes good choices along the way.
This thrilling sci-fi adventure has superhero themes: Noah must keep his Gravitar identity a secret from his family and the general population; he has to learn how to use his powers for “the true, the good and the beautiful” only; he must figure out his identity within Gravitas. He also has some normal middle school issues: he really wants to be the best at something, or in his words, “incredible”; he has to figure out how to deal with a bully on his basketball team; he definitely has anger issues. I liked his friend group: Haley, the straight-A student, and Rodney the musical one. I think kids will enjoy this contemporary superhero origin story. The frequent vivid black and white illustrations and comic book onomatopoeia in a bold font add more fun to this fast-paced read.
Rodney is Black; most other characters cue as white.
This thrilling sci-fi adventure has superhero themes: Noah must keep his Gravitar identity a secret from his family and the general population; he has to learn how to use his powers for “the true, the good and the beautiful” only; he must figure out his identity within Gravitas. He also has some normal middle school issues: he really wants to be the best at something, or in his words, “incredible”; he has to figure out how to deal with a bully on his basketball team; he definitely has anger issues. I liked his friend group: Haley, the straight-A student, and Rodney the musical one. I think kids will enjoy this contemporary superhero origin story. The frequent vivid black and white illustrations and comic book onomatopoeia in a bold font add more fun to this fast-paced read.
Rodney is Black; most other characters cue as white.
March 9, 2024
Gravitas is a great term for the secret organization in The Minor Miracle that Noah Minor, age 12, discovers he is part of. These superheroes can control gravity, and Noah must train hard to develop his skills. (They include “slug,” “pull,” and “heavy pull,” somewhat difficult for me to understand and find differences among.)
Of course, Noah also has his “other” life as a seventh-grader with the almost obligatory two best friends, Haley and Rodney. Haley is the stereotypical female with superior intelligence and organizational skills, while Rodney is also a true friend and also a source of some comic relief.
Disappointing, to me as an adult, that these tropes were used, including Rodney being a black kid who is #3 in character priority. Twelve-year-olds may not consciously recognize these things, but that’s the problem, isn’t it?
Bobby Yong created the illustrations throughout, and I don’t know whether their retro simplicity will enhance or detract from the target audience.
I want to make clear that there were many positive and entertaining features of Meredith Davis’ book. Noah doesn’t easily become adept at gravity control; he must work industriously over time. In addition, soon into the book he is faced with a true emotional dilemma, something that would be tough for a pre-teen.
His great-uncle tells him Gravitas is holding him back and that the two of them should partner up. Noah hasn’t seen his great-uncle in years, yet naturally feels a familial tug in his direction. Whether he is right or wrong creates excellet suspense.
I received a copy of this book from Waterbrook via NetGalley. This is an honest review.
Of course, Noah also has his “other” life as a seventh-grader with the almost obligatory two best friends, Haley and Rodney. Haley is the stereotypical female with superior intelligence and organizational skills, while Rodney is also a true friend and also a source of some comic relief.
Disappointing, to me as an adult, that these tropes were used, including Rodney being a black kid who is #3 in character priority. Twelve-year-olds may not consciously recognize these things, but that’s the problem, isn’t it?
Bobby Yong created the illustrations throughout, and I don’t know whether their retro simplicity will enhance or detract from the target audience.
I want to make clear that there were many positive and entertaining features of Meredith Davis’ book. Noah doesn’t easily become adept at gravity control; he must work industriously over time. In addition, soon into the book he is faced with a true emotional dilemma, something that would be tough for a pre-teen.
His great-uncle tells him Gravitas is holding him back and that the two of them should partner up. Noah hasn’t seen his great-uncle in years, yet naturally feels a familial tug in his direction. Whether he is right or wrong creates excellet suspense.
I received a copy of this book from Waterbrook via NetGalley. This is an honest review.
May 24, 2024
This was a fairly quick read with characters that may start out a bit stereotypical, but I think the author took some interesting turns with them. The powers possessed by Noah and other gravitars were a bit deeper than your average super hero or magical powers, especially at this age group, but I liked the way the author explained the gravity-controlling powers. It's really more sci-fi than fantasy in that way. I also appreciated that Noah, though possessing stronger-than-average powers, still struggles a lot to learn to use and control them. And that his stronger powers aren't just a coincidence because he's the MC or a "chosen one," but rather were caused by something specific.
Though I understood Noah's difficulty in basically having to choose between Gravitas and Uncle Saul, certain aspects of the plot were fairly predictable (though would probably be less so to the younger audience this book is meant for). It was no surprise to me that Noah couldn't keep a secret and used his powers in public, though I'll admit I was a little surprised that there seemed to barely be any consequences. I also think there was a lot that could have been expanded upon and some things that could definitely continue on into another book. I see no signs that there will be more to follow this book, but if there is, I'll definitely be reading it. I would recommend this book for pre-teens or young teens, especially those interested in fantasy, sci-fi, or super heroes.
Thank you to Netgalley and WaterBrook & Multnomah for providing me a copy of this book to review.
Though I understood Noah's difficulty in basically having to choose between Gravitas and Uncle Saul, certain aspects of the plot were fairly predictable (though would probably be less so to the younger audience this book is meant for). It was no surprise to me that Noah couldn't keep a secret and used his powers in public, though I'll admit I was a little surprised that there seemed to barely be any consequences. I also think there was a lot that could have been expanded upon and some things that could definitely continue on into another book. I see no signs that there will be more to follow this book, but if there is, I'll definitely be reading it. I would recommend this book for pre-teens or young teens, especially those interested in fantasy, sci-fi, or super heroes.
Thank you to Netgalley and WaterBrook & Multnomah for providing me a copy of this book to review.
July 6, 2024
As a baby, Noah Minor survives a fall of sixteen stories without getting hurt — not even a scratch. Noah is in seventh grade wondering if he will ever be a superhero. It’s what he wants to be. His best friends trumpet player, Rodney and the perfect Hayley. Noah is sure his star is rising when during a standard vision test, learns he can manipulate gravity. How did he learn this? He is recruited to become a member of Gravitas —a top secret government agency. Noah thinks he will be a superpower. He expects that he will be able to fly and solves all his problems. Though now, he has a set of new problems that includes his Uncle Saul. Uncle Saul is on the most wanted list of the Gravitas. What will Noah do? Does he remain faithful to Uncle Saul or Gravitas?
The author has written a story filled with twists and turns that contributes to Noah and his best friends activities. One learns who are really your friends. If you have great power, you have great responsibility is a quote that is almost overused throughout the story. I liked how the three friends worked together. They made a good team.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
The author has written a story filled with twists and turns that contributes to Noah and his best friends activities. One learns who are really your friends. If you have great power, you have great responsibility is a quote that is almost overused throughout the story. I liked how the three friends worked together. They made a good team.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
September 1, 2024
Thanks to Publishers Weekly for this copy, from WaterBrook at Random House! I won it in one of their giveaways!
A new superhero brings a new adventure for middle graders to read and love. It's written by Meredith Davis, whose new 'superhero', Noah Minor, shows up on the first pages while being dropped from a building's sixteenth story. A reporter sees it all, though the great-uncle denies he did it. However it happened, all that we know is that it's a "Minor Miracle" and here is dear Noah, now in middle school, reading to have an eye check. Plot twists often happen in stories, but the story by Davis seems to surprise often with ordinary events turning into surprises, not only for Noah but for his friends, Haley and Rodney. Each one appears to have a superpower yet it's not always the kind that has them flying through the air, but the challenge to think ahead, to make better decisions, to take good care of friends, and family, too! Except for an introduction, Noah tells the story, his dilemmas, his worries, and the decisions that are really hard to make. Sometimes they're not so good and Noah has to become a different superhero than he ever imagined. Illustrator Billy Yong adds to the action with his graphic illustrations, adding much to the emotional impact of the action. It's a terrific book!
A new superhero brings a new adventure for middle graders to read and love. It's written by Meredith Davis, whose new 'superhero', Noah Minor, shows up on the first pages while being dropped from a building's sixteenth story. A reporter sees it all, though the great-uncle denies he did it. However it happened, all that we know is that it's a "Minor Miracle" and here is dear Noah, now in middle school, reading to have an eye check. Plot twists often happen in stories, but the story by Davis seems to surprise often with ordinary events turning into surprises, not only for Noah but for his friends, Haley and Rodney. Each one appears to have a superpower yet it's not always the kind that has them flying through the air, but the challenge to think ahead, to make better decisions, to take good care of friends, and family, too! Except for an introduction, Noah tells the story, his dilemmas, his worries, and the decisions that are really hard to make. Sometimes they're not so good and Noah has to become a different superhero than he ever imagined. Illustrator Billy Yong adds to the action with his graphic illustrations, adding much to the emotional impact of the action. It's a terrific book!
August 5, 2024
I had a blast reading this book! It was TOO cute and so much fu. I love the storyline and plot development. Superheroes are always fun, especially when your protagonist is clueless until their powers emerge. And then the complicated life that follows never leaves me disappointed, nor did it in this story. It followed that same design which tickled me pink when reading. Super enjoyable! And what has been the best part, in my opinion? My seven year old has LOVED the story. I was not sure she would like it since it is about a twelve year old boy in seventh grade (hardly something she can relate to, just coming out of second grade herself). But she has not put the book down yet. Every time I look, she has it in her hands again and is reading. She is absolutely devouring this story! And as a parent, I LOVE that! If you need a fun, super hero story to entertain your kids, especially reluctant readers, this should be on your list of books to try. You will not be disappointed! I can’t wait to see what comes next!
March 1, 2025
Action-packed, fun, and maybe a little scary at the thought of a baby being dropped from the 16th floor (kids don't try this at home), this new superhero adventure featuring Noah Minor is inventive and different from the usual radioactive agent transmitting supernatural powers to hapless humans.
As Noah struggles with just being an ordinary middle-schooler, the mystery of his past is slowly unraveled and he realizes that he is actually extraordinary. But with these special abilities, there is a great deal of responsibility that goes with it (ahem!), and Noah needs to grow and enhance and control the gift he is capable of wielding. Here, Noah has to make difficult choices between family and friends and what it means to be just a regular student with awesome superpowers.
Perfect for young readers who love the superhero genre and for reluctant readers, the story, once one gets into them, is hard to put down.
As Noah struggles with just being an ordinary middle-schooler, the mystery of his past is slowly unraveled and he realizes that he is actually extraordinary. But with these special abilities, there is a great deal of responsibility that goes with it (ahem!), and Noah needs to grow and enhance and control the gift he is capable of wielding. Here, Noah has to make difficult choices between family and friends and what it means to be just a regular student with awesome superpowers.
Perfect for young readers who love the superhero genre and for reluctant readers, the story, once one gets into them, is hard to put down.
November 19, 2025
I'm very disappointed in Waterbrook's choice to publish this.
Although the writing is good, the plot makes sense, and the characters are distinct, I had a serious problem with how astonishingly shallow Christianity is in this book. Prayer is mentioned only when the main character is in serious trouble, and God doesn't come up except in passing perhaps one time. There is no effort to show the Christian life or any consideration of Biblical principles. There is no consideration for what God would have us do. No thought given to how we ought to treat others. No care for whether we've given God thanks for what we have and what He's done for us. It reads like a general market book, even though it's from a "Christian" imprint. Honestly, I'd have been much happier with it if there had been no attempt to incorporate religion at all, because at least that would have been better and more honest than this non-existent portrayal of "Christian faith."
Although the writing is good, the plot makes sense, and the characters are distinct, I had a serious problem with how astonishingly shallow Christianity is in this book. Prayer is mentioned only when the main character is in serious trouble, and God doesn't come up except in passing perhaps one time. There is no effort to show the Christian life or any consideration of Biblical principles. There is no consideration for what God would have us do. No thought given to how we ought to treat others. No care for whether we've given God thanks for what we have and what He's done for us. It reads like a general market book, even though it's from a "Christian" imprint. Honestly, I'd have been much happier with it if there had been no attempt to incorporate religion at all, because at least that would have been better and more honest than this non-existent portrayal of "Christian faith."
May 7, 2024
In the opening scene, baby Noah Minor survives a sixteen-story fall from his apartment balcony to the sidewalk below. I gasped! Author Meredith Davis had my attention! We meet Noah again at age twelve just after he makes his school’s A team for basketball. Life can be complicated for any seventh grader, but it turns out Noah has superpowers, and it’s not easy to unlock and control them without someone getting hurt. On top of that, he’s not sure who he can trust. A wrong choice will put people he cares about in danger, including himself. This exciting story takes readers on an adventure that defies gravity! Noah and his friends are authentic, well rounded characters who won my heart and kept me reading to the last page to make sure they survived. Kids (and adults) will enjoy this book.
July 7, 2025
There’s nothing “minor” about THE MINOR MIRACLE. Enter Noah Minor – an ordinary twelve-year-old who finds out he has extraordinary power. Buckle up your seat belt and get ready for one wild seventh-grade adventure! With the help of his two best friends—Haley and Rodney—Noah navigates his amazing superpowers, which are not under control (yet). As the plot thickens, Noah is increasingly torn between whether or not his great-uncle Saul is on the good side, or the bad side (currently he’s on Gravitas’s top secret government’s most-wanted list). Fast-paced, funny, and full of superhero twists and turns, author Meredith Davis brings us an awesome new superhero. In addition, the illustrations by Billy Yong bring to life and enhance the suspense, emotion, and friendships. Highly recommend.
August 31, 2025
Noah Minor is shocked to find out that he has an ability to manipulate gravity and a special section of the CIA wants to train him. Learning to use his "powers" turns out to be more frustrating than anticipated, and so is keeping everything a secret. With help from his two best friends, Noah learns how to control his powers, trust the right people, and forgive himself for making mistakes.
My kids snatched this books right up when it arrived and read it before I had a chance to even look at it. I liked the superpower aspect, Noah's relationship with his friends, and that there were consequences for his actions. Book 1 has a lot of world building, so it took me a while to get into it.
I love the fun illustrations throughout the book. (More text heavy than picture heavy)
My kids snatched this books right up when it arrived and read it before I had a chance to even look at it. I liked the superpower aspect, Noah's relationship with his friends, and that there were consequences for his actions. Book 1 has a lot of world building, so it took me a while to get into it.
I love the fun illustrations throughout the book. (More text heavy than picture heavy)
February 24, 2024
Book 1 in a new series about Noah Minor, a 7th grader who suddenly realizes he has a superpower that makes the fact of his surviving a 16 story fall as a baby make sense. He is then recruited to work for Gravitas, a secret agency with members who can manipulate gravity and most surprising to Noah is that one of his best friends is already a member. When Noah’s Great-Uncle Saul, who has been running from Gravitas for years, shows up to ask him to use his powers, Noah has to make some important decisions regarding to whom he should be loyal. Will look forward to seeing what new missions he may be a part of in the next book.
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