Lavender and Pearls: Where Pearls are Keys to Magical Worlds

by Sue Carpenter

Jackie and her brother Hayden are sent to stay at their eccentric Aunt's antique shop in New Zealand, where they descover a magical secret.

When her family members start going missing, Jackie must venture into fantastical and dangerous new lands to save them.

Will Jackie rescue her family? And what secrets will she discover along the way?


This book is dyslexic friendly.

131 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 10, 2023

Reviews

[Kelly Buchanan-Johns · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great books for kids. Easy to read, amazing worlds to discover and an adventure to discover!

[Amy George · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a unique and accessible YA read that completely pulled me into Jackie’s story and the magical mystery surrounding her family. I actually read this book aloud to my kids before bed, two chapters each night, and it worked so well for that. The writing style was easy to follow while still keeping us excited to keep reading and uncover more secrets.

The story follows Jackie and her younger brother Hayden as they are sent to stay with their eccentric aunt at her antique shop in New Zealand, where they soon discover there is far more magic hidden beneath the surface than they ever expected. When family members begin mysteriously disappearing, Jackie is forced into dangerous and fantastical new lands in an effort to save them.

As a New Zealander, I loved all the little relatable touches throughout the story. Seeing Marmite featured honestly made me smile as a proud Marmite lover 😂 The New Zealand and Australian setting gave the book a familiar and comforting feel that I really enjoyed.

I also appreciated the deeper themes woven throughout the story. Jackie having to step up and care for Hayden after their mother goes missing really highlighted that feeling of growing up too quickly and carrying responsibilities before your time. The book also touches on estranged family relationships and reconnecting with loved ones in a heartfelt and approachable way for younger readers.

Another wonderful aspect of this book is that it is dyslexic friendly, making it a more accessible read for a wider range of readers, which I think is incredibly important and special to see.

Even after finishing book one, there are still plenty of unanswered questions and mysteries left to uncover, and I’m definitely curious to see where the trilogy goes next. If you enjoy magical adventures, family mysteries, and accessible YA fantasy with heart, this is absolutely worth checking out.