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Izzy Malone #1
The Charming Life of Izzy Malone
Izzy Malone isn’t your typical middle schooler. She wears camouflage combat boots, the stars are her only friends, and after a month she’s set a new record for the most trips to her principal’s office.
But Izzy’s life isn’t so charming these days. The kids at school think she’s a mouthy misfit, her musical prodigy sister gets all the attention at home, and no one takes Izzy’s determination to compete in her small town’s Great Pumpkin Race seriously.
When Izzy’s antics land her in hot water, her parents enroll her in Mrs. Whippie’s Earn Your Charm School. At first Izzy thinks it sounds stupid—her manners are just fine, thanks—but Mrs. Whippie’s first assignment proves intriguing. Tucked inside a letter is a shiny charm bracelet and instructions telling her she will “Earn Her Charm” by performing a series of tasks. For each task Izzy completes, she’ll receive a charm to place on her bracelet. “Complete them all,” the letter says, “and you will have earned a prize unlike any other.”
Soon Izzy’s adding charms to her bracelet. But when a task goes seriously awry and threatens to derail her mother’s budding political career, Izzy has her hands full proving she’s not an emerging juvenile delinquent. Add in some middle school mean girls, a giant pumpkin that could be the answer to all her problems, and discovering she might have a crush on the boy she accidentally punched in the face, and Izzy may just pull it all together and Earn Her Charm. And she’s about to find out the best kind of friends are just like stars: Bright and beautiful, appearing just when you need them, to shine a little bit of light on a dark night.
But Izzy’s life isn’t so charming these days. The kids at school think she’s a mouthy misfit, her musical prodigy sister gets all the attention at home, and no one takes Izzy’s determination to compete in her small town’s Great Pumpkin Race seriously.
When Izzy’s antics land her in hot water, her parents enroll her in Mrs. Whippie’s Earn Your Charm School. At first Izzy thinks it sounds stupid—her manners are just fine, thanks—but Mrs. Whippie’s first assignment proves intriguing. Tucked inside a letter is a shiny charm bracelet and instructions telling her she will “Earn Her Charm” by performing a series of tasks. For each task Izzy completes, she’ll receive a charm to place on her bracelet. “Complete them all,” the letter says, “and you will have earned a prize unlike any other.”
Soon Izzy’s adding charms to her bracelet. But when a task goes seriously awry and threatens to derail her mother’s budding political career, Izzy has her hands full proving she’s not an emerging juvenile delinquent. Add in some middle school mean girls, a giant pumpkin that could be the answer to all her problems, and discovering she might have a crush on the boy she accidentally punched in the face, and Izzy may just pull it all together and Earn Her Charm. And she’s about to find out the best kind of friends are just like stars: Bright and beautiful, appearing just when you need them, to shine a little bit of light on a dark night.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published November 29, 2016
About the author
Jenny Lundquist
7 books436 followersJenny Lundquist grew up in Huntington Beach, California, wearing glasses and wishing they had magic powers. They didn't, but they did help her earn a degree in intercultural studies at Biola University. Jenny has painted an orphanage in Mexico, taught English at a university in Russia, and hopes one day to write a book at a café in Paris. Jenny and her husband live in northern California with their two sons and Rambo, the world's whiniest cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
February 5, 2017
Izzy is a middle school girl who prefers stars as friends rather than bunch of girls who chat about boys, makeup and clothes. Being different from others surviving in school is quite different for her. Not having in born abilities and tendency to get into troubles makes her struggle to get attention of her mother who has all the Love for her perfect mucian sister.
Things change when her parents make her to join charm school to appear her more like other likable girls; she receives strange letters from charm school signing different tasks about doing something good but it doesn't happen so.
It is really interesting and gripping story. When I completed almost 50% book, I started to wonder what will happen next and how Izzy will manage to get things right, whether she will get her mother's love or not. The end was really nice and smooth. Best Thing about the novel was the titles and starting of each chapter. Very nicely written. first 2-3 pages are enough to make you like the book and it's main character. Overall if you don't know Izzy's Life story add it to-read list.
Things change when her parents make her to join charm school to appear her more like other likable girls; she receives strange letters from charm school signing different tasks about doing something good but it doesn't happen so.
It is really interesting and gripping story. When I completed almost 50% book, I started to wonder what will happen next and how Izzy will manage to get things right, whether she will get her mother's love or not. The end was really nice and smooth. Best Thing about the novel was the titles and starting of each chapter. Very nicely written. first 2-3 pages are enough to make you like the book and it's main character. Overall if you don't know Izzy's Life story add it to-read list.
April 6, 2017
I wish I had a million dollars, so I could buy boxes and boxes of this book. Then I would go around to middle school cafeterias and find all the kids eating by themselves, and I would hand them a copy. Anyone who has ever felt awkward in their life will instantly connect with Izzy Malone. You might even start to wonder if Jenny Lundquist had been taking notes of your life, because how else could she capture the out-of-place feeling that so many of us have felt in our lives so well? This story is amazing.
July 19, 2020
"Normal?" Aunt Mildred looked like Grandma Bertie had just said a cuss word. "What an utterly terrible word - it sucks all the spark and creativity right out of a person. I've simply got no tolerance for people like that."
This book is such a gem! It goes straight to my favourite middle-grade reads list. I fell in love with it from the very first sentence, and my only wish was that it was longer (and translated to Polish, so I could pass it to my niece!).
It's a wonderful story about not being afraid to be who you are, finding friends and about a difficult relationship between mother and daughter. The main character Izzy is spirited and is not afraid to speak her mind and hold her own. I loved how she evolved throughout the story and found friends that she cherished. All of the side characters were wonderful too, especially Aunt Mildred and Grandma Betty, to whom I owe quite a few bursts of laughter while I was reading :)
I also liked how the author brought up a difficult topic of being the "less talented" and "less favoured" of the siblings. Izzy's difficult relationship with her mom and how it affected her relationship with her sister was described very thoughtfully and I think it was a very important part of this book. I'm also glad how it wrapped up.
And last but not least, I loved the idea of the "Charm school"! It brought a lot of humorous moments to the story and allowed Izzy to better understand herself and see that there are people who care about her. Another motif in this book was loving who you are and not being afraid of being different, despite the fact that not everyone will like it. Even though Izzy went through hard times as other kids bullied her at school and not everyone in her family accepted her for who she is, I loved it that she still wasn't afraid to be different and kept true to herself. The small town setting too was truly lovely and made me want to move out of the city.
Overall, I'm truly happy that I had a chance to read this book and I highly recommend it! I think it's a fantastic read for middle-grade kids but would also be good for older readers. Personally, I'm sad that it ended and can't wait to pick up the second book in the series! :)
This book is such a gem! It goes straight to my favourite middle-grade reads list. I fell in love with it from the very first sentence, and my only wish was that it was longer (and translated to Polish, so I could pass it to my niece!).
It's a wonderful story about not being afraid to be who you are, finding friends and about a difficult relationship between mother and daughter. The main character Izzy is spirited and is not afraid to speak her mind and hold her own. I loved how she evolved throughout the story and found friends that she cherished. All of the side characters were wonderful too, especially Aunt Mildred and Grandma Betty, to whom I owe quite a few bursts of laughter while I was reading :)
I also liked how the author brought up a difficult topic of being the "less talented" and "less favoured" of the siblings. Izzy's difficult relationship with her mom and how it affected her relationship with her sister was described very thoughtfully and I think it was a very important part of this book. I'm also glad how it wrapped up.
And last but not least, I loved the idea of the "Charm school"! It brought a lot of humorous moments to the story and allowed Izzy to better understand herself and see that there are people who care about her. Another motif in this book was loving who you are and not being afraid of being different, despite the fact that not everyone will like it. Even though Izzy went through hard times as other kids bullied her at school and not everyone in her family accepted her for who she is, I loved it that she still wasn't afraid to be different and kept true to herself. The small town setting too was truly lovely and made me want to move out of the city.
Overall, I'm truly happy that I had a chance to read this book and I highly recommend it! I think it's a fantastic read for middle-grade kids but would also be good for older readers. Personally, I'm sad that it ended and can't wait to pick up the second book in the series! :)
December 2, 2017
Thank you @kidlitexchange for providing me with a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Izzy Malone indeed charmed me! I felt for this spirited middle grader who is often misunderstood, verbally bullied by her peers and feels quite alone in this big world. It doesn’t help that her sister is a perfect musical prodigy and her mother, who is running for mayor, is more focused on the image her family is portraying.
The characters truly make this book. They are all unique and each have quirks that make them feel vulnerable. I loved how Izzy slowly started making her own friends and especially enjoyed the idea of performing certain “good deeds” in order to earn charms. I guessed the secret behind the creator, but was definitely touched by their back story.
Talk about a wonderful book for mothers and daughters to read together. Many grow up with strained relationships that result in constant bickering. This story will either be eye opening of their own actions, give them hope that they won’t always be foes and hopefully open up some much needed great discussions.
This is the first book that I’ve read by Jenny Lundquist, but it definitely won’t be my last. I’m excited that this is the start to a new series. Book 2, The Wondorous World of Violet Barnaby, came out Sept. 19!! We met Violet in this book and learned about some of her past and a big change that is about to happen in her family. I look forward to reading her story and visiting these characters again.
Izzy Malone indeed charmed me! I felt for this spirited middle grader who is often misunderstood, verbally bullied by her peers and feels quite alone in this big world. It doesn’t help that her sister is a perfect musical prodigy and her mother, who is running for mayor, is more focused on the image her family is portraying.
The characters truly make this book. They are all unique and each have quirks that make them feel vulnerable. I loved how Izzy slowly started making her own friends and especially enjoyed the idea of performing certain “good deeds” in order to earn charms. I guessed the secret behind the creator, but was definitely touched by their back story.
Talk about a wonderful book for mothers and daughters to read together. Many grow up with strained relationships that result in constant bickering. This story will either be eye opening of their own actions, give them hope that they won’t always be foes and hopefully open up some much needed great discussions.
This is the first book that I’ve read by Jenny Lundquist, but it definitely won’t be my last. I’m excited that this is the start to a new series. Book 2, The Wondorous World of Violet Barnaby, came out Sept. 19!! We met Violet in this book and learned about some of her past and a big change that is about to happen in her family. I look forward to reading her story and visiting these characters again.
November 12, 2016
Izzy Malone isn’t your typical middle schooler. She wears camouflage combat boots, the stars are her only friends, and after a month she’s set a new record for the most trips to her principal’s office.
But Izzy’s life isn’t so charming these days. The kids at school think she’s a mouthy misfit, her musical prodigy sister gets all the attention at home, and no one takes Izzy’s determination to compete in her small town’s Great Pumpkin Race seriously.
When Izzy’s antics land her in hot water, her parents enroll her in Mrs. Whippie’s Earn Your Charm School. At first Izzy thinks it sounds stupid—her manners are just fine, thanks—but Mrs. Whippie’s first assignment proves intriguing. Tucked inside a letter is a shiny charm bracelet and instructions telling her she will “Earn Her Charm” by performing a series of tasks. For each task Izzy completes, she’ll receive a charm to place on her bracelet. “Complete them all,” the letter says, “and you will have earned a prize unlike any other.”
Soon Izzy’s adding charms to her bracelet. But when a task goes seriously awry and threatens to derail her mother’s budding political career, Izzy has her hands full proving she’s not an emerging juvenile delinquent. Add in some middle school mean girls, a giant pumpkin that could be the answer to all her problems, and discovering she might have a crush on the boy she accidentally punched in the face, and Izzy may just pull it all together and Earn Her Charm. And she’s about to find out the best kind of friends are just like stars: Bright and beautiful, appearing just when you need them, to shine a little bit of light on a dark night.
Rating: 4.75/5 Penguins
Quick Reasons: oh my penguins, this read is SO adorable; poignant, powerful, poetic prose; the morals and statements this book makes are ground-breaking; this is a book the whole world needs to read; quirky, endearing characters; a wide range of subjects and focuses; Jenny Lundquist just jumped to the top of my "need to read more of" list
So many HUGE thanks to Jenny Lundquist and Simon & Schuster / Aladdin M!X Publishing for sending me a free ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review! This in no way altered my read of or opinions on this book.
Words are a weapon, and rotten kids like Tyler Jones get a free pass when it comes to using them because the marks they leave are invisible. Why don't more adults realize that?
You know, penguins... I really ought to read more middle grade. Every time I finish a midgrade novel, I tell myself this. And every time....I somehow wind up forgetting, until the next time I pick up another midgrade. I just honestly...there's something SO fun, and innocent, and awesome about middle grade novels. They're ALWAYS more focused on the morals than on romance (because duh, at this age most kids still believe the opposite sex has cooties). This book by Jenny Lundquist? Reminded me once again why I fell in love with midgrade, and CONTINUE to fall in love with it.
These characters are vibrant. They are loud. They are all quirky in their ways, and self-conscious, and confused, and conflicted. There are so many emotions, there is SO MUCH human nature, playing throughout this entire journey...and yet every word, every smear of ink, is there for a purpose. Every sentence sets the tone, makes a statement, and left me breathless--which is why, when it came time for me to choose my quotes for this review, I struggled. I had NINE quotes bookmarked. I couldn't help but add every single one of them to goodreads after finishing--Jenny Lundquist's words are just too powerful, too poignant, to remain unread.
I have certainly heard of the Subtle Art of Shutting Up, but I can't say I've practiced it all that much. I greatly prefer the underappreciated genius of Speaking My Mind. I figure if someone doesn't like what I have to say, they shouldn't put their ears in close proximity to my mouth.
I absolutely adored the "pen pal" aspect of this novel. In an age where writing physical letters has devolved into emails and monosyllabic text messages... Well, I can imagine the letters featured in this book--and the relationship built around the sending and receiving of them--was something truly special. The fact that someone went out of their way to listen to, and validate, Izzy in ways she's never really gotten before... that just made it better, in my mind. And the prose is so gorgeously poetic, it called for letters--for an outlet where the abstract, instead of the realistic, could come out to play more. Because Izzy is, in the end, in middle school--and still bursting with creative potential.
And the morals--the morals and the statements this read makes are SO super important. I feel this, in particular, is a book that the whole world needs to read--ESPECIALLY right now, with all the hatred that's flying around. Ideas include: bullying; remaining true to yourself; being kind to others; familial love; standing tall under pressure... I mean, I could keep going, but there are a LOT of morals floating in these pages...and each one is important. Each one is poignant, and powerful, and NEEDING to be read.
The bracelet and the first charm appeared the day I punched Austin Jackson in the nose. I didn't mean to slug him. His face just got in my way. It was a bruising end to a disastrous first month in middle school.
This was a super entertaining, humorous, fantastic read! The cover is also super adorable, though you won't necessarily understand all of the artwork until you turn the last page. The characters are charming and vibrantly unique; the focus on relationships and morals is engaging and heart-wrenching; and I have, I fear (though "fear" isn't quite the right word!) discovered a new author to devour. I recommend this to literally everyone, but especially: lovers of midgrade; those who sometimes forget how unique and special they are; and those who enjoy snarky, sassy characters. I cannot wait to pick up my next Jenny Lundquist book; I only regret not having done so sooner!
October 20, 2017
I absolutely fell in LOVE with Izzy and her world! It's such an original story, with the pumpkin races, Izzy being a rower, her mom running for mayor, having two elderly relatives living with her ~ I just loved all of it. It's a book absolutely brimming with heart and it hit me deep inside my middle grade core (because we are ALL really 11-year-olds inside). This is a book I would have LOVED to have as a tween ~ a book that shows you that sometimes it may be hard to fit in and feel a part of your family, but that it is worth the effort to work on those relationships. Izzy Malone just straight up made me HAPPY! And the charm school storyline is amazing as well. I can't wait to read Violet's story next.
Highly recommended for grades 4-6! I will be purchasing this for my school library.
Thanks to the author for providing copies of this title to Kid Lit Exchange for review!
Highly recommended for grades 4-6! I will be purchasing this for my school library.
Thanks to the author for providing copies of this title to Kid Lit Exchange for review!
January 31, 2018
I'm unable to phrase my feelings. This book impacted my soul deeply and absolutely hate this book for making me cry.
November 1, 2016
Izzy Malone just started middle-school and it isn’t going so well. Her big mouth has landed her in the principle’s office too many times and her unique clothes, unusual hobbies, and general “I don’t care” attitude, hasn’t made her any new friends. Izzy feels like she just doesn’t fit, not with the kids at her school and not with her musical prodigy big sister, running-for-mayor mother, or police chief father. Izzy’s behavior has prompted her parents to enroll her in a home-study charm school. Izzy receives letters from Mrs. Whippie, the charm school teacher, along with a new charm and task to earn it per letter. Izzy soon learns that earning the charms won’t be as easy as she hopes, but with the help of some possibly new friends, Izzy learns that each charm comes with so much more than she expected.
Jenny Lunquist’s The Charming Life of Izzy Malone is most certainly charming! Lundquist has spun an engaging and fun middle-grade read bursting with humor and heart and explores subjects like family, friendship, and fitting in, with depth and a pitch-perfect voice. The middle-school world in The Charming Life of Izzy Malone feels achingly and hilariously authentic. From dreaded teachers to mean girls, annoying assignments, and first crushes, this is a world readers will get and relate to. The Mrs. Whippie’s Earn Your Charm School is a creative and captivating story idea that young readers will love and reading about Izzy’s sometimes wacky and awry attempts to earn her charms is just too much fun!
Izzy Malone is a lovable heroine with a spunky attitude and charming wit. Readers will admire her fearless ability to be herself, while appreciating her vulnerability. Izzy is surrounded by a superb group of girlfriends with their own unique and special personalities. I love the wonderful female relationships (friendships, sisters, mother/daughter) Ludquist creates and explores in this book.
My final thoughts: Like Izzy herself, The Charming Life of Izzy Malone is sweet and sassy and heartfelt and humorous, and sure to spark many thoughtful discussions about self-esteem, bullying, and embracing one’s uniqueness.
Jenny Lunquist’s The Charming Life of Izzy Malone is most certainly charming! Lundquist has spun an engaging and fun middle-grade read bursting with humor and heart and explores subjects like family, friendship, and fitting in, with depth and a pitch-perfect voice. The middle-school world in The Charming Life of Izzy Malone feels achingly and hilariously authentic. From dreaded teachers to mean girls, annoying assignments, and first crushes, this is a world readers will get and relate to. The Mrs. Whippie’s Earn Your Charm School is a creative and captivating story idea that young readers will love and reading about Izzy’s sometimes wacky and awry attempts to earn her charms is just too much fun!
Izzy Malone is a lovable heroine with a spunky attitude and charming wit. Readers will admire her fearless ability to be herself, while appreciating her vulnerability. Izzy is surrounded by a superb group of girlfriends with their own unique and special personalities. I love the wonderful female relationships (friendships, sisters, mother/daughter) Ludquist creates and explores in this book.
My final thoughts: Like Izzy herself, The Charming Life of Izzy Malone is sweet and sassy and heartfelt and humorous, and sure to spark many thoughtful discussions about self-esteem, bullying, and embracing one’s uniqueness.
September 13, 2016
I picked up this ARC because I loved the cover art, and read all ~270 pages in two nights.
Izzy Malone is, as a character, painfully relatable for any girls who grew up as a "tomboy;" I found myself face-to-face with my own adolescent self, down to the insisted nicknames, since my full name sounded too proper and feminine (similar to Izzy/Isabella).
Izzy is a story that follows finding yourself and your friends in early middle school, and I would genuinely recommend this book to any young girls who feel like they don't have many friends, or that the world is against them sometimes (e.g. victims of bullying, as I was).
But reading this as an adult, I will say that sometimes the narration felt very pandering, even though the intended audience is children. Readers are spoon-fed morales, and parallels are addressed so explicitly and continuously that any chance juvenile readers might've had of coming to their own understanding is effectively snuffed out. There are a few pacing problems near the beginning and end as well, and a few things in the story are effectively left un-addressed (I do realize a sequel is in the works).
That being said! I found myself truly laughing at some of the jokes in Izzy Malone, and the very concept of this book is an incredibly endearing one of originality and charm (pun intended). It would be a great shared read between mother/daughter, sisters, aunt/niece, grandmother/granddaughter, & even girl scouts. Izzy is a very dynamic character, and following her from a potential juvenile delinquent to someone all young girls could aspire to be, gave me warm-fuzzies.
Izzy Malone is, as a character, painfully relatable for any girls who grew up as a "tomboy;" I found myself face-to-face with my own adolescent self, down to the insisted nicknames, since my full name sounded too proper and feminine (similar to Izzy/Isabella).
Izzy is a story that follows finding yourself and your friends in early middle school, and I would genuinely recommend this book to any young girls who feel like they don't have many friends, or that the world is against them sometimes (e.g. victims of bullying, as I was).
But reading this as an adult, I will say that sometimes the narration felt very pandering, even though the intended audience is children. Readers are spoon-fed morales, and parallels are addressed so explicitly and continuously that any chance juvenile readers might've had of coming to their own understanding is effectively snuffed out. There are a few pacing problems near the beginning and end as well, and a few things in the story are effectively left un-addressed (I do realize a sequel is in the works).
That being said! I found myself truly laughing at some of the jokes in Izzy Malone, and the very concept of this book is an incredibly endearing one of originality and charm (pun intended). It would be a great shared read between mother/daughter, sisters, aunt/niece, grandmother/granddaughter, & even girl scouts. Izzy is a very dynamic character, and following her from a potential juvenile delinquent to someone all young girls could aspire to be, gave me warm-fuzzies.
February 4, 2017
5 stars. "Charming" book about pre-teen girls participating in an unusual type of Charm School. Read this book quickly in one sitting.
February 12, 2021
It really is the charming life of Izzy Malone. I loved this book. I mean, I did expect to like it - but it hit every one of my expectations and soared higher. Much higher.
Izzy was fantastic. She was weird and odd and brave and confident in herself, while also not being confident. She really resonated with me. She wasn't what I expected and it was just perfect. I liked that she was not the usual tween heroine. Her lack of insecurity was a real draw - she was comfortable in her own skin for the most part - it's everyone else that's not comfortable with her and I loved that she generally didn't let it get to her.
The friendship between her and her sister was also a real win for me. I loved that they weren't beset by jealousy and rage and arguments but genuinely supported one another. Although Izzy has a few nasty moments, she was quick to apologise and recognise it wasn't Carolyn's fault. And I loved that Carolyn was so understanding and supportive and nice.
I felt sorry for Izzy. Her relationship with her mum is tense. But I did like that it examined the issues and recognised that it wasn't Izzy's fault. Adults are humans too and capable of screwing up and making mistakes and being insecure. And that includes parents. It's a hard lesson for anyone to learn but I liked the way it was portrayed here. And I liked that Izzy did her best to understand that it wasn't about her but her mum's own issues.
I loved Aunt Mildred. I loved the charm school. The whole thing was magical. Whimsical. Awesome. I'd love to join a charm school like that.
So Izzy's mum joins her up to a charm school with this idea that she'd behave. But it's not so much a charm school as a correspondence course. In her first letter Izzy gets a charm bracelet with a tiny envelope charm. Each letter contains a mission of sorts, something she has to do or undertake in order to earn her charm. The first one for instance requires her to send a letter to someone who needs cheering up. Along the way she makes friends, develops a crush, gets into trouble and has some adventures.
I love that Izzy, Violet, Daisy and Sophia decide to make their charm bracelet adventures into a Charm School Club. It's just such a whimsical idea. I would've adored this book growing up, I imagine I would've read and reread it a lot. Perfect book for tweens and a pretty enjoyable read for adults who want to revisit their childhood adventures. 5 stars.
Izzy was fantastic. She was weird and odd and brave and confident in herself, while also not being confident. She really resonated with me. She wasn't what I expected and it was just perfect. I liked that she was not the usual tween heroine. Her lack of insecurity was a real draw - she was comfortable in her own skin for the most part - it's everyone else that's not comfortable with her and I loved that she generally didn't let it get to her.
The friendship between her and her sister was also a real win for me. I loved that they weren't beset by jealousy and rage and arguments but genuinely supported one another. Although Izzy has a few nasty moments, she was quick to apologise and recognise it wasn't Carolyn's fault. And I loved that Carolyn was so understanding and supportive and nice.
I felt sorry for Izzy. Her relationship with her mum is tense. But I did like that it examined the issues and recognised that it wasn't Izzy's fault. Adults are humans too and capable of screwing up and making mistakes and being insecure. And that includes parents. It's a hard lesson for anyone to learn but I liked the way it was portrayed here. And I liked that Izzy did her best to understand that it wasn't about her but her mum's own issues.
I loved Aunt Mildred. I loved the charm school. The whole thing was magical. Whimsical. Awesome. I'd love to join a charm school like that.
So Izzy's mum joins her up to a charm school with this idea that she'd behave. But it's not so much a charm school as a correspondence course. In her first letter Izzy gets a charm bracelet with a tiny envelope charm. Each letter contains a mission of sorts, something she has to do or undertake in order to earn her charm. The first one for instance requires her to send a letter to someone who needs cheering up. Along the way she makes friends, develops a crush, gets into trouble and has some adventures.
I love that Izzy, Violet, Daisy and Sophia decide to make their charm bracelet adventures into a Charm School Club. It's just such a whimsical idea. I would've adored this book growing up, I imagine I would've read and reread it a lot. Perfect book for tweens and a pretty enjoyable read for adults who want to revisit their childhood adventures. 5 stars.
December 12, 2017
"Sometimes I feel like a wildflower...except wildflowers are beautiful, and most of the time I feel like a sore thumb in a room full of pretty pinkies."-Izzy
Thanks to the @kidlitexchange
program- for a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The Charming Life of Izzy Malone is just that charming. Isabella "Izzy" Malone feels like an outcast in middle school where she is verbally bullied. And feels like everyone wants her to be like her older sister who she likes to call Carolyn the Great. If that wasn't enough Izzy's mother is running for Mayor, and she wants her daughter to just be "normal". So
Mrs. Malone signs up Izzy to do a home-study charm school, meaning she will be receiving her assignments through the mail. The teachers name is Mrs. Whippie, which I found her to be a pretty awesome character. Mrs. Whippie wants Izzy to perform a series of task, once she finishes a task she receives a charm to put on her bracelet. And as Izzy goes through each task she finds some unexpected friends, but with each good deed things begin to get complicated.💟
This book was wonderfully written. I think young girls that relate to Izzy will enjoy this book. She's fearless, charming and unique in a room full of pretty pinkies. And every young girl should feel special awkward or not. We are all unique in our own ways. This book will definitely be on my daughters shelf once she gets to that age. I think it'll make a charming gift for my nieces too!😉
"The butterfly is one of God's most beautiful creatures. But for the first half of its life, that butterfly inches along as a clunky caterpillar, moving slower than all the others, never knowing that one day, things will change...you just keep being yourself and making memories...and one day you're gonna wake up and realize you've changed...you've sprouted wings, and your flying, soaring higher than you ever thought you could."- Aunt Mildred
Thanks to the @kidlitexchange
program- for a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The Charming Life of Izzy Malone is just that charming. Isabella "Izzy" Malone feels like an outcast in middle school where she is verbally bullied. And feels like everyone wants her to be like her older sister who she likes to call Carolyn the Great. If that wasn't enough Izzy's mother is running for Mayor, and she wants her daughter to just be "normal". So
Mrs. Malone signs up Izzy to do a home-study charm school, meaning she will be receiving her assignments through the mail. The teachers name is Mrs. Whippie, which I found her to be a pretty awesome character. Mrs. Whippie wants Izzy to perform a series of task, once she finishes a task she receives a charm to put on her bracelet. And as Izzy goes through each task she finds some unexpected friends, but with each good deed things begin to get complicated.💟
This book was wonderfully written. I think young girls that relate to Izzy will enjoy this book. She's fearless, charming and unique in a room full of pretty pinkies. And every young girl should feel special awkward or not. We are all unique in our own ways. This book will definitely be on my daughters shelf once she gets to that age. I think it'll make a charming gift for my nieces too!😉
"The butterfly is one of God's most beautiful creatures. But for the first half of its life, that butterfly inches along as a clunky caterpillar, moving slower than all the others, never knowing that one day, things will change...you just keep being yourself and making memories...and one day you're gonna wake up and realize you've changed...you've sprouted wings, and your flying, soaring higher than you ever thought you could."- Aunt Mildred
January 20, 2018
* Thank you to the #KidLitExchange and #JennyLundquist for providing me with a review copy. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this book but it wasn't anything like I expected. Somehow, I got the notion that it had a magical quality to it, but I was actually thrilled to find that it didn't and that there was so much more. I think that this is an awesome read for young girls trying to figure out finding their own tribe and fitting in.
Izzy Malone is in 6th grade and feels like she doesn't fit in. She doesn't want to talk about boys, clothes and make-up, she would rather talk to the stars and be out on the water with her kayak. She has her own fashion style that many people don't understand. She desperately wants to be on the rowing club, but can't seem to make it into that clique. Her older sister is a prodigy musician and can do no wrong while Izzy finds herself routinely at the principal's office. She even feels like she has to make an effort for her own mother's attention. After her latest trip to the office, her parents decide she needs to be sent to charm school.
Izzy is sent to Mrs. Whippie's Earn Your Charm School. It isn't your typical etiquette class and that's what makes it so perfect. Izzy is sent letters with tasks that she needs to perform in order to get charms for a charm bracelet. She struggles with the tasks, but ultimately accomplishes them. However, there are a number of hiccups along the way. The important thing is that each time she accomplishes a task, she also writes a letter back to Mrs. Whippie which are rather therapeutic for her. She also starts making some real friends.
This is a great book about finding yourself in the noise that is all around you. Knowing that sisters can be completely different and completely perfect in their own special way. Understanding that parents aren't perfect either. A great book for the tween set!
I really enjoyed this book but it wasn't anything like I expected. Somehow, I got the notion that it had a magical quality to it, but I was actually thrilled to find that it didn't and that there was so much more. I think that this is an awesome read for young girls trying to figure out finding their own tribe and fitting in.
Izzy Malone is in 6th grade and feels like she doesn't fit in. She doesn't want to talk about boys, clothes and make-up, she would rather talk to the stars and be out on the water with her kayak. She has her own fashion style that many people don't understand. She desperately wants to be on the rowing club, but can't seem to make it into that clique. Her older sister is a prodigy musician and can do no wrong while Izzy finds herself routinely at the principal's office. She even feels like she has to make an effort for her own mother's attention. After her latest trip to the office, her parents decide she needs to be sent to charm school.
Izzy is sent to Mrs. Whippie's Earn Your Charm School. It isn't your typical etiquette class and that's what makes it so perfect. Izzy is sent letters with tasks that she needs to perform in order to get charms for a charm bracelet. She struggles with the tasks, but ultimately accomplishes them. However, there are a number of hiccups along the way. The important thing is that each time she accomplishes a task, she also writes a letter back to Mrs. Whippie which are rather therapeutic for her. She also starts making some real friends.
This is a great book about finding yourself in the noise that is all around you. Knowing that sisters can be completely different and completely perfect in their own special way. Understanding that parents aren't perfect either. A great book for the tween set!
April 15, 2018
@kidlitexchange #partner
Thank you to @kidlitexchange for the review copy of The Charrning Life of Izzy Malone. All opinions are my own. Izzy (don’t call me Isabella) Malone doesn’t really fit in at her middle school. She is often sent to the principal’s office, and called names like “Toad Girl” by other kids. Her mom is running for mayor and is worried about being embarrassed by Izzy, and her sister Carolyn seems to be the perfect daughter. She desperately wants to be a part of the Dandelion Paddlers (a rowing group at school), and even though she was qualified to make the team, she was not chosen. She is smart and creative, but just doesn’t seem to fit in. Things start to change when she receives a package in the mail from “Mrs. Whippie’s Earn Your Charm School.” She is given a charm bracelet and the chance to earn new charms for completing tasks - doing a good deed for someone, making something beautiful, baking cupcakes, etc. Unfortunately, her quest for earning charms doesn’t go exactly as planned, and she ends up being the town’s “Star Bandit.” Even though there are troubles along the way, Izzy’s quest for charms brings her new (and renewed) friendships, her first real crush, a sweet relationship with her Aunt Mildred, and a victory at Pumpkin Palooza.
I fell in love with Izzy from the start of this book. She is smart, spunky, and charming. There were times that I couldn’t help but giggle at some of the things that happened to her, and I sympathized with her when things didn’t go her way. I especially liked the rekindling of her friendship with Violet. (I’m excited to read The Wondrous World of Violet Barnaby!) This is a perfect middle grade read, especially for anyone who has ever felt that they didn’t quite fit in. “If life is a story, I was figuring out who I wanted to star in mine.” (Izzy Malone)
Thank you to @kidlitexchange for the review copy of The Charrning Life of Izzy Malone. All opinions are my own. Izzy (don’t call me Isabella) Malone doesn’t really fit in at her middle school. She is often sent to the principal’s office, and called names like “Toad Girl” by other kids. Her mom is running for mayor and is worried about being embarrassed by Izzy, and her sister Carolyn seems to be the perfect daughter. She desperately wants to be a part of the Dandelion Paddlers (a rowing group at school), and even though she was qualified to make the team, she was not chosen. She is smart and creative, but just doesn’t seem to fit in. Things start to change when she receives a package in the mail from “Mrs. Whippie’s Earn Your Charm School.” She is given a charm bracelet and the chance to earn new charms for completing tasks - doing a good deed for someone, making something beautiful, baking cupcakes, etc. Unfortunately, her quest for earning charms doesn’t go exactly as planned, and she ends up being the town’s “Star Bandit.” Even though there are troubles along the way, Izzy’s quest for charms brings her new (and renewed) friendships, her first real crush, a sweet relationship with her Aunt Mildred, and a victory at Pumpkin Palooza.
I fell in love with Izzy from the start of this book. She is smart, spunky, and charming. There were times that I couldn’t help but giggle at some of the things that happened to her, and I sympathized with her when things didn’t go her way. I especially liked the rekindling of her friendship with Violet. (I’m excited to read The Wondrous World of Violet Barnaby!) This is a perfect middle grade read, especially for anyone who has ever felt that they didn’t quite fit in. “If life is a story, I was figuring out who I wanted to star in mine.” (Izzy Malone)
August 29, 2018
Middle schooler, Izzy, is a bit of a rebel and a winning misfit. Her sister is an easy going prodigy, her best friend Violet withdrew and terminated their relationship after Violet’s mother got cancer, the crew team is run by the popular girls and wont give Izzy her rightful spot on the team and the neighbor boy she shoots hoops with doesn’t acknowledge her at school. In fact she has so many trips to the principle’s office, when her temper or tongue get the best of her, her mother enrolls her in charm school.
May 30, 2017
Izzy Malone is the "weird" kid in middle school that no one wants to be seen with - even at home, she doesn't fit in. The story is perfectly written for middle school kids, with family and social struggles that are perfectly realistic. It was fun to read, and had just a hint of romance, which I think was also realistic for that age. I'd definitely recommend it; it's a clean read, with plenty of things for kids to learn.
Note: I received this book for free through Goodreads Giveaways.
Note: I received this book for free through Goodreads Giveaways.
November 4, 2017
yoo I loved this book! It didn't simplify complex life situations or family dynamics or individual experiences. It had more character development than any YA novel. It brought up romantic feelings as a part of life but not a central theme. It dealt with friendship, empathy, rebellion, and coming to see the sadness in others instead of reacting with blind anger. So into it. I want a charm bracelet too.
February 18, 2020
I loved reading this book!! This book is about a girl named Izzy who is dealing with some promblems and needs help. Then she gets a letter in the mail about a charm school. When Izzy starts the school they give her tasks to complete that get more difficult as she goes on. Every time she completes a task she gets another charm to add to her braclet. Izzy does not who this person is... so read this great book to find out, who is giving her these tasks.
July 3, 2020
I really liked this book because it sends a very deep message that should be transmitted to everyone: we all deserve to be respected and listened to. It also deals with being accepted in a new school without having to pretend we're someone that we're not. Some might judge you but you shouldn't be hurt, instead feel proud of your imperfections. This book is recommended to teenagers who want to know more about school bullying.
October 22, 2021
This is literaly my favourite book. I once picked it up at the library and every night I read a chapter. Totally recommend it to people who haven't picked their style of book, I found mine with this book. The plot twists and the cliffhangers are all I want and need in a good book and this book had, not only what I needed, but what I didn't know I wanted, too! Any child out there, read this book.
September 27, 2017
This was such a fun book to read! The voice is fantastic and so Izzy, and I love the small town setting. Younger- and mid-age middle grade readers will especially love Izzy's adventures and obstacles.
November 2, 2017
This is an enjoyable Teen read. I've chosen to review it. I've given it a 5* rating. My hubby even enjoyed it. My granddaughters almost fought over it. It certainly held their attention. This is a fun, clean read especially for the early teen.
July 30, 2018
This was a really "charming" book! I thought this concept was really cute but I will say it seemed to have too many ideas in it. I could have done without some of the issues but in all it was a really cute summer read. I will get into more details in my review on my youtube channel- kwellsbooks
August 3, 2021
I love Isabella Mal- oops, sorry. I mean IZZY Malone. I've kind of wished i was a member of The Charm Girls Club, i bet it's going to be soo much fun! Izzy and Austin, oh well, no need to ask. Just, READ IT OKAY?! READ IT!!
May 26, 2017
I absolutely loved reading this book. More review to come, promise...just tired right now.
July 21, 2017
This was a really good book about making friends where you don't expect them and people who change.
August 31, 2017
i LOVED this book! it was super good
December 13, 2017
I think you have to be in middle school to really enjoy this one.
March 2, 2019
This funny, sweet, tear-jerking book takes a hard look at what life is like going into muddle school, and into what charm school should be.
April 3, 2019
This book is fantastic
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