Magic in the Attic

by Jim Shore, Jennifer Arena (Editor)

"A beautiful tale about finding friendship in even the most unimaginable of places!"
— Junior Magazine Experience the charming story of Button and Squeaky's friendship! Magic in the Attic is a charming storybook filled with imagination, love, and the joy of friendship. For children ages 5 to 7, this story about friendship introduces the characters Button and Squeaky. On a boring and rainy day, a lonely teddy bear named Button is feeling blue and needs something to do! Button decides to venture into the attic for the very first time. He climbs up the creaky stairs and enters a world full of wonder. Amazed by all the toys he finds, he begins to explore. There's so much to see and play with! Button searches through a beautiful trunk filled with treasures from faraway places. He'll soon find something very special that will change everything. At the very bottom of the trunk is a curious balloon animal kit that says, "Instant Friend, Just Add Love and Air." He soon finds himself making the friend he's always wanted, Squeaky! Button and Squeaky become the best of friends, and so begins all the future adventures together that are to come! Magic in the Attic is written and illustrated by Jim Shore, an industry-leading gift designer and illustrator. Jim has produced thousands of heartwarming figurines and gifts, including commissioned work for Disney, Peanuts , Coca Cola, and The Grinch , and his art is sold worldwide. Magic in the Attic is his first-ever children's book. An imaginative storybook that tells a classic story of new friendship, Magic in the Attic is the perfect bedtime story that kids will want to read again and again! "A very cute story for all ages!"
—Kayla Zampino, Founder, Disney on Display "Packed with gorgeous illustrations, Magic in the Attic is a wonderful story for children about adventure, imagination, and friendship. Thoroughly enjoyed reading it with my son."
—Kanupriya Sindhu, Kiddingly

Genres: Picture Books, Animals, Childrens

48 pages, Hardcover

First published August 11, 2020

Reviews

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.

Magic in the attic is an adorable story about newfound friendships.
Buttons the bear is lonely and decides to explore the one place in his house he's never explored before - the attic. Buttons has great fun exploring this area of the house then comes across an old trunk. In the trunk is treasure but Buttons finds the best treasure of all hidden inside there....

This story was adorable with beautiful illustrations and a lovely, easy to follow and understand story for little ones.

[Bonnie DeMoss · Rating 4 out of 5]

Button is bored and decides to go up into the attic. He discovers adventures, imagination, and a new friend.

This is a very nice children's book with great ideas on exploring your own history and finding out that adventure and friends are closer than you think.

I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley. My review is voluntary.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

*thank you to Netgalley, Fox Chapel Publishing and Jim Shore for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*


3 stars.


My copy of this was unfinished so I didn't get the privilege of being able to see all the pictures, but what I did see look amazing! The colours and the detail, the softness of them are just so beautiful to look at and this was my favourite part of this book.

The story was good too. It felt original to me and was a sweet story about a teddy bear who discovered an adventure right in his own home and made a friend in the process.

A cute story that would be great for bedtime and for kids who can't quite read on their own as I'm sure they will enjoy taking in the pictures. Definitely recommend.

[Carla · Rating 3 out of 5]

There are a lot of five star reviews for this one, but it was just okay for us. Magic in the Attic is the cute story of how Button (a plush bear) and Squeaky (a balloon dog) meet and become friends. It begins with a rainy day and Button being bored. He decides to explore the attic, a new adventure for him. He finds a lot of amazing things to play with, but just before he decides to leave, he sees a trunk in the corner. Her explores the trunk and finds a box with instructions on how to make a friend, a balloon dog friend. Once he follows the directions to make his balloon dog, it comes to life. They really don't do much together, but Squeaky, gives him a special gift that makes them become great friends. My granddaughter loved the illustrations and we spent a lot of time looking at the pictures of the things in the attic and talking about them. She, of course, had no idea what an attic was and I had to convince her that she doesn't have on in her house and I don't either. The message of friendship was just okay for us. I wish there had been more about that. This was an okay story, but not one that we will probably read again.

[Diedra Drake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Magic in the Attic is the cute story of how Button (a plush bear) and Squeaky (a balloon dog) become fast friends. It begins with Button finding himself bored and lonely. He decides to adventure into the attic, where he explores the items he finds there. Halfway through the story, he comes across a box with instructions on how to create a balloon dog friend.

I would have preferred if less time had been spent playing with all the toys in the room, and more space given to developing their friendship - or perhaps playing with the toys together. The illustrations were beautifully done, the style consistent throughout the book, and so much detail.

The story could be used to encourage children with few friends to explore their imagination with toys, or to learn how to make new friends. This is a good bedtime or nap story, as the pair end up dozing off.

[Vanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished the enchanting tale of "Magic in the Attic," and I can't help but overflow with warmth and nostalgia. This delightful children's story, introducing the lovable duo Button and Squeaky, took me on a journey that's as heartwarming for an adult as it is for the younger readers it's meant for.

On a mundane, rainy day, the ever-curious teddy bear, Button, decides to explore the attic for the first time. What unfolds is a charming discovery of toys, fascinating objects, and a trunk brimming with treasures from distant lands. However, it's the serendipitous find of a balloon animal kit with the label, "Instant Friend Just Add Love and Air," that sparks the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

Jim Shore's illustrations breathe life into this enchanting world. Each stroke of the pencil captures the whimsy and innocence of Button and Squeaky's adventures, making every page a visual treat. It's the kind of artwork that not only complements the narrative but also elevates the entire reading experience.

What makes this book truly special is its exploration of friendship. Button and Squeaky become the epitome of companionship, embarking on a multitude of adventures together. The simple yet profound theme resonates, making it a timeless tale for readers of all ages.

As an adult reader, I found myself transported back to the magic of childhood. The innocence, the joy of discovery, and the warmth of friendship are themes that transcend age. It's a testament to the universal appeal of a well-crafted children's book, and "Magic in the Attic" accomplishes this with flying colors.

In a world that sometimes feels too fast-paced, this book is a gentle reminder of the simple joys found in companionship and exploration. I wholeheartedly recommend "Magic in the Attic" to anyone seeking a cozy escape into a world where friendship blooms like a balloon animal – with love and a bit of magic.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's easy to see why Jim Shore is an award-winning artist. The illustrations in this book are amazing. It appears like they are done in colored pencil. There is so much detail! I prefer this style of illustrating to the two-dimensional digital artwork present in children's books nowadays.

Button the bear ventures into the attic to find toys to play with. While up there, he discovers something even more special: a new friend.

The story is sweet, but something in the writing just didn't hit the mark for me. I would purchase this book based on the illustrations alone.

I received a digital ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and Fox Chapel Publishing.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this children’s book with its patchwork colors and artwork. New readers will using this book to practice. Children will be able to learn about having adventures on their own. They’ll want to learn new places. They will learn love is a feeling. Great for schools, homeschool, and therapists.

[Kelley - rva_reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet book. I loved the illustrations and Burton’s imagination. Button’s friendship with Squeaky was so cute, especially at the end when they are in bed together. It reminded me of why my son likes to do with his toys.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this in exchange for my honest opinions.

[Donna Maguire · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun little read that was very enjoyable!

The illustrations are lovely and traditional and they really brought Button and Squeaky to life.

the story was well written and easy to understand.

It is 4 stars from me for this one - a great story about friendship

Highly recommended!

[Noelle Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

We received this book to check out and I read out loud to the girls over lunch. It was very engaging and lovely for ages 5 to 8 alike. It definitely makes for a fun afternoon of imagination. We all loved it!

[Anissa Telle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magic in the Attic: A Button and Squeaky Adventure by Jim Shore transports young children on a magical journey that will inspire them to explore their environment in search of their own adventures. The creativity and bravery exhibited by Button the Bear is simply brilliant. While the length of the text on each page was a bit past the attention span of my almost four year old he loved exploring the beautiful illustrations depicting another world found by Button the Bear in his attic. I was especially enamored with how Jim Shore showed how common household items could be transformed into essential elements for imaginary play. He also explores the theme of perseverance when obstacles are encountered. A fantastic read that your child will return to again and again.

I was provided a free advance reader copy in exchange for my honest review from Net Galley. The opinions shared in this review are my own.

[Catherine Craig (Angelic Light) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing children's book, which has superb illustrations and beautiful writing. I really loved the story of Button the teddy bear, who goes into the attic of his house to find lots of wonderful treasure and ends up finding a new friend called Squeaky the balloon dog. My daughter also loved this book. I highly recommend this book which is very cute, uplifting and heartwarming. It is a book that I will read with my daughter again and again. It would make a wonderful gift for any child.

Many thanks to the author, publisher and netgalley for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Mar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Absolutely adored it.
The illustrations were lovely. They had an old timey charm to them that very much reminded me of books I read when I was little. It also reminded me of long forgotten adventures I had rummaging around the attic in my grandmother's house!
The story is well laid out, progresses at an appropriate pace and kept my child's attention.
I would think even young readers would enjoy the beautiful pictures and the many little details within.
It would make a great picture book for labeling object with younger (not yet) readers, but can still be wonderfully adapted into a lesson on friendship for your early elementary aged kids.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magic in the Attic: A Button and Squeaky Adventure is a delightful story about friendship. The beautiful illustrations help take the reader on quest to see what Button the Teddy Bear finds in the attic and how he meets a friend, Squeaky the Balloon. This book teaches kids that friendship is not always easy, but when they find a friend it is worth it. This book would be ideal to read in a classroom or story time setting. Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. (This review is also on GoodReads.)

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cute story about finding friendship, adventure and discoveries.
I liked the illustrations, I found them warm and inviting.
Definitely a good book to help a young child to recognize words to objects.
There is a lot going on which I feel would keep a child engaged in the story.
A good story to read to children that are experiencing difficulties making friends.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a sweet book about love, friendship, and adventure. Button is a cute character, looking for an adventure on a dreary day. My kids loved Jim Shore's beautiful illustrations, full of fun details. The story itself is cute. Button finds an Instant Friend, but that friend ends up helping Button learn how to love. A very sweet message and my children are looking forward to more adventures from this duo.

I received an ARC from NetGalley. This is my unbiased review.

[Brittney Hafner · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Making a friend isn't that hard after all," Button says. "All you have to do is keep trying." ~ Magic in the Attic: A Button & Squeaky Adventure.

I just love this book. Cute story on friendship and trying new things. Button was itching for something, and ended up going on an adventure into the attic. While in this attic he finds all sorts of adventure until he looks into a chest and spots something.

Everything about this book is cute, the illustrations and a cute story on making friends.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming story about Button the teddy bear and his bravery in going up to the attic to explore more of his home. Readers will enjoy some search and find as items are named. He opens an old trunk and finds directions to create an instant friend. After several attempts, he creates a balloon dog. Together, Button and Squeaky explore the attic and enjoy many adventures.
The illustrations are delightful. Readers will love exploring them to see all of the details.

[Mags (mbooksbycandlelight) · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's a cute little story. I found that the illustration style made the character blend with the background a bit too much. I also think the bear wasn't as cute as it could have been and that may make it less appealing for younger readers. This book is also quite wordy, so it may be more suitable for children older than 6.

I received an eArk via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet little story! Attics are nearly always fun places to explore; one never knows what will be found in one. A little bear finds the attic an interesting place to explore on a dreary, rainy day, he even finds a friend there. I think littles and beginner readers alike will enjoy this tale. The illustrations were wonderful.
I received a Kindle arc from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review.

[Cherry London · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ooh, a little adventure mystery, for Bubbles, he was quite bored and wanted something else to do, so off he went exploring his attic. He has never been there, so you can imagine his surprise at what he encountered. A fun and entertaining story with a hint of mystery, that would entice young readers anywhere.

[bohemianrhapsodyreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is such a cute and nice book about how Button and Squeaky became best friends. How do you think the story will go? You have to read the book to find out!

I just reviewed Magic in the Attic: A Button and Squeaky Adventure by Jim Shore. #ButtonandSqueakyJImShoreHappyFoxBooksFoxChapelPublishing #NetGalley

[Ryan · Rating 2 out of 5]

First off this book was overly long and drawn out. Plus the story and the illustrations remind me of Teddy Bears’s Picnic from the 80’s. The story is nice, it’s about a bear that wanders to the attic and goes exploring. It just doesn’t keep my attention. It looks and feels old and dated and is a reading turn off.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a massive jim shore fan, so I was very excited to get a chance to review this book. Magic in the attic is a cute story about a bear who meets his new best friend in an unexpected place. My favorite part of this book were the jim shore illustrations- they were beautiful and very reminiscent of his figurines.

[Victoria Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magic in the Attic: A Button and Squeaky Adventure is a lovely story about friendship. The illustrations are lovely and traditional. I absolutely loved this book.

Thank you to NetGalley and Fox Chapel Publishing for my copy.

[Dawni · Rating 3 out of 5]

Button gave me reminiscences of Grandmas house, of that childhood nostalgia we all grapple for at one time or another in our lives. An adorable story filled with an adventure of new experiences and the joy of friendship.

[Crystal Tadlock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gorgeous illustrations, fun read, cute characters! I really liked this book! I tried to read it to my son but he was unable to sit through the entire book. I finished it by myself and loved it! Super fun and I believe it would spark creativity and promote exploration in children!

[Renee Winter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed reading this book to my grandson. A cute sweet story of Button and how he finds a new friend named Squeaky. Wonderful pictures help bring a delightful read.
In exchange for an honest review I was given a digital copy. #netgalley #HappyFoxBooks

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a cute tale of a teddy bear who is feeling blue. He has never been in the attic before so he decides today is the day he will venture in. He finds so many things. Along the way he finds a friend.