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Kingdom of Secrets
When her father is arrested for a crime she committed, Prismena will do anything to save him, taking her on a high-flying and shadowy adventure in this middle-grade fantasy debut.
In the kingdom of Oren, Prismena longs to fly hot-air balloons, but her father insists she keep her feet on the ground. When he's arrested for a crime he didn't commit--and one that Prismena did--she must decide between following the rules and following her heart.
Her decision will catapult her on an adventure that challenges everything she knows about her identity, her kingdom, and even her beloved balloons.
In the kingdom of Oren, Prismena longs to fly hot-air balloons, but her father insists she keep her feet on the ground. When he's arrested for a crime he didn't commit--and one that Prismena did--she must decide between following the rules and following her heart.
Her decision will catapult her on an adventure that challenges everything she knows about her identity, her kingdom, and even her beloved balloons.
304 pages, Library Binding
First published August 1, 2021
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542 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 9, 2021
This was AMAZING! I loved it! This story is full of so much heart & strength. I ADORE these amazing characters. I love how Abi is Prismena’s(Prissy for short)opposite personality in every way. It’s so perfect though. Prissy always follows the rules, stays between the lines, & always does as she is told. Abi is a wild feisty free spirit, always breaking the rules. The way they help each other in only the way each can for the other, was so beautiful to read. Watching that friendship grow-watching Abi slowly let down her walls(pun intended, you’ll understand when you read the book lol), & seeing Prissy become more free was amazing.
Prissy never let herself LIVE fully, doing things that made her happy. So great to see her discover who she truly is, & embrace her strengths. I loved seeing strong female characters, & such SMART ones. I loved all of Prissy’s inventions. Cole is just the cutest little toddler too. My heart! It’s told from Prissy’s POV, but several chapters sprinkled throughout are told by a mystery character starting from a key moment in their past, up to the present. When everything came together full circle, I thought all of it was brilliant.
I loved Prissy’s backstory, as well as Abi’s, & the kingdom of Oren’s. Prissy’s mom was also a fascinating story, & I love how balloons/balloonists were woven into the book. The different balloons were almost characters of there own. The last balloon naming at the end had me all in the feels too-beautiful! So many great themes on friendship, family, bravery, believing in yourself, being true to yourself, & standing up for what’s right. So atmospheric. I felt like I was in the sky with the wind in my face, flying in 1 of those balloons.
Such vivid descriptions that made the words come alive like magic. I could see the beautiful colors described perfectly. There’s even politics with a King, a Queen & a Rebellion. So good. An amazing enemies to friend story, with an amazing “gumdrop”of an MC who I adored. So impressed by the writing/storytelling as well. I LOVED THIS BOOK! Lol I don’t think this is a series, but I wish it were. Regardless, I will automatically buy any MG she writes in the future. HIGHLY recommend! STUNNING cover by Emma Cormarie too!💜
Prissy never let herself LIVE fully, doing things that made her happy. So great to see her discover who she truly is, & embrace her strengths. I loved seeing strong female characters, & such SMART ones. I loved all of Prissy’s inventions. Cole is just the cutest little toddler too. My heart! It’s told from Prissy’s POV, but several chapters sprinkled throughout are told by a mystery character starting from a key moment in their past, up to the present. When everything came together full circle, I thought all of it was brilliant.
I loved Prissy’s backstory, as well as Abi’s, & the kingdom of Oren’s. Prissy’s mom was also a fascinating story, & I love how balloons/balloonists were woven into the book. The different balloons were almost characters of there own. The last balloon naming at the end had me all in the feels too-beautiful! So many great themes on friendship, family, bravery, believing in yourself, being true to yourself, & standing up for what’s right. So atmospheric. I felt like I was in the sky with the wind in my face, flying in 1 of those balloons.
Such vivid descriptions that made the words come alive like magic. I could see the beautiful colors described perfectly. There’s even politics with a King, a Queen & a Rebellion. So good. An amazing enemies to friend story, with an amazing “gumdrop”of an MC who I adored. So impressed by the writing/storytelling as well. I LOVED THIS BOOK! Lol I don’t think this is a series, but I wish it were. Regardless, I will automatically buy any MG she writes in the future. HIGHLY recommend! STUNNING cover by Emma Cormarie too!💜
February 8, 2021
The sheer enjoyment and utter exuberance felt at every twist and turn of Christyne Morrell’s middle-grades YA adventure is worth your time and will leave you breathlessly wanting more. The lively tale centers around a gumdrop of a girl named Prismena Reece and a wild encounter with Abigail Smeade over a silk scarf that leads to a relentlessly convivial quest to uncover secrets, right wrongs, and start a revolution. Morrell grounds the world of Oren with flashes of whimsy within a fascinatingly fantastical backstory as well as impeccable word choices that create wondrous imagery that confidently guides the reader through the nonstop action of the novel. As each short chapter ratchets another perpetually complex layer, the yarn unravels in a way that will keep you up and force you to read just one more chapter.
After their auspicious meeting that begins an unlikely friendship and commences a buoyant adventure, Prismena and Abi must figure out how to rescue Prismena’s father, a hot-air balloonist who was arrested for smuggling contraband. Intertwined with this espionage thriller is the history of how Oren became an oppressive state fit for kings and rife for revolution. Abi, the best deputy for a rebellion, ushers Prismena through various obstacles and puzzles that lead to building catapults, visiting haunted children’s homes, planning explosive prison breaks, and finding a Mad Queen on a quest to get revenge on a treasonous king. The merriment comes with the skillfully adept presentation of each new barrier that the two girls must surmount and it does not cease until the grand finale.
Throughout the narrative, the powerful central female protagonists remain intriguing and earnestly likable, due in large part to Morrell’s steady hand that leads to each new revelation, wherein the reader endears themselves closer to Abi and Prismena. These heroines are resourceful, quick on their feet, and witty to boot. By their ability to tear down walls that were made to keep people safe, we come to appreciate the values of friendship, family, and a claim to who one is and what one stands for. Abi teaches Pris to color outside of the lines and embrace the rebel that she becomes. This book is a pleasure to read for all ages, and the world that Morrell has exquisitely created permits any reader to partake in a grand adventure that will satisfy until hopefully the next one.
After their auspicious meeting that begins an unlikely friendship and commences a buoyant adventure, Prismena and Abi must figure out how to rescue Prismena’s father, a hot-air balloonist who was arrested for smuggling contraband. Intertwined with this espionage thriller is the history of how Oren became an oppressive state fit for kings and rife for revolution. Abi, the best deputy for a rebellion, ushers Prismena through various obstacles and puzzles that lead to building catapults, visiting haunted children’s homes, planning explosive prison breaks, and finding a Mad Queen on a quest to get revenge on a treasonous king. The merriment comes with the skillfully adept presentation of each new barrier that the two girls must surmount and it does not cease until the grand finale.
Throughout the narrative, the powerful central female protagonists remain intriguing and earnestly likable, due in large part to Morrell’s steady hand that leads to each new revelation, wherein the reader endears themselves closer to Abi and Prismena. These heroines are resourceful, quick on their feet, and witty to boot. By their ability to tear down walls that were made to keep people safe, we come to appreciate the values of friendship, family, and a claim to who one is and what one stands for. Abi teaches Pris to color outside of the lines and embrace the rebel that she becomes. This book is a pleasure to read for all ages, and the world that Morrell has exquisitely created permits any reader to partake in a grand adventure that will satisfy until hopefully the next one.
August 3, 2021
KINGDOM OF SECRETS is a fast-paced adventure set in a wonderfully imaginative world, where brightly colored balloons fly high over the wall built by the good king to keep the citizens safe from the enemies who seek to destroy them.
But Prismena (Prissy) daughter of the balloon maker, is about to learn that not everything is as it seems-- neither in her family nor in the Kingdom.
After meeting an orphan named Abi, Prissy finds herself pulled into a plot to overthrow the King. Although she's resistant at first, Prissy soon begins to see the world as it is, not as she's been told it is.
Packed with rich characters, hidden truths, and high-stakes action, KINGDOM OF SECRETS is a perfect MG read that I think will appeal to readers who love adventure with the taste of a fairy tale. But what I especially loved about this is book is Prissy's character arc as she goes from a naive girl whose greatest worry was what her father might think, to fighter for right!!
I highly recommend this wonderful adventure for MG readers, and as a text for teachers to explore issues of power and justice!
Thank you to the Delacorte Press and Netgalley for the E-Arc
But Prismena (Prissy) daughter of the balloon maker, is about to learn that not everything is as it seems-- neither in her family nor in the Kingdom.
After meeting an orphan named Abi, Prissy finds herself pulled into a plot to overthrow the King. Although she's resistant at first, Prissy soon begins to see the world as it is, not as she's been told it is.
Packed with rich characters, hidden truths, and high-stakes action, KINGDOM OF SECRETS is a perfect MG read that I think will appeal to readers who love adventure with the taste of a fairy tale. But what I especially loved about this is book is Prissy's character arc as she goes from a naive girl whose greatest worry was what her father might think, to fighter for right!!
I highly recommend this wonderful adventure for MG readers, and as a text for teachers to explore issues of power and justice!
Thank you to the Delacorte Press and Netgalley for the E-Arc
April 30, 2021
I highly recommend this fun filled book to everyone of all ages. The author did an amazing job of making the reader feel like they were along for the balloon ride! The cover illustration is beautifully drawn. All in all a Good Read!!!! What a wonderful adventure... we all need a getaway and what better way than in a book!
August 8, 2023
Soar in a hot-air balloon with Prismena and Abi as they explore the mysterious Kingdom of Oren and uncover a sinister plot!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½
The Kingdom of Oren lives up to the book’s title, as it is full of all kinds of secrets. It’s exciting to see Prissy go uncovering them as she follows her new friend Abi into the kingdom’s underworld of rebellious orphans and secret plots. Each twist of the story raises new questions. What is the king hiding, and is the queen really as mad as people say? It’s easy to relate to Prissy as she tries to make sense of all the strange things she’s finding out about her home.
At the start of the story, Prissy is very uptight and nervous, but with Abi’s help she slowly comes into her own, and grows more confident and daring. Abi, for her part, is a strong and interesting character who could have been the protagonist. The book’s focus on hot air balloons is intriguing and I enjoyed learning about how they work and how they played into the story
However, while some elements of the book were original and exciting, others felt standard and predictable, such as the cruel orphanage and the rebellion plotline. It would have helped if more had been done to make the world of Oren seem like a unique place, and not simply a backdrop for the story. In some chapters, the book jumps from the present with Prissy and Abi, to the past, where it follows a young girl’s life in the kingdom years ago. These segments from the past are not interesting enough to capture the reader’s attention and slow the book down. The biggest drawback is that the book’s ending is not believable. Different problems and intrigues are resolved too quickly and tidily to really be satisfying for the reader.
Prissy and Abi’s hot-air-balloon capers in Kingdom of Secrets will delight readers looking for an adventure story with a twist, so long as they don’t mind rather standard settings and a slap-dash ending.
🎈For my full review and recommendations for similar books, check out my book blog: https://newkidonthebookreviews.wordpr... 🎈
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½
The Kingdom of Oren lives up to the book’s title, as it is full of all kinds of secrets. It’s exciting to see Prissy go uncovering them as she follows her new friend Abi into the kingdom’s underworld of rebellious orphans and secret plots. Each twist of the story raises new questions. What is the king hiding, and is the queen really as mad as people say? It’s easy to relate to Prissy as she tries to make sense of all the strange things she’s finding out about her home.
At the start of the story, Prissy is very uptight and nervous, but with Abi’s help she slowly comes into her own, and grows more confident and daring. Abi, for her part, is a strong and interesting character who could have been the protagonist. The book’s focus on hot air balloons is intriguing and I enjoyed learning about how they work and how they played into the story
However, while some elements of the book were original and exciting, others felt standard and predictable, such as the cruel orphanage and the rebellion plotline. It would have helped if more had been done to make the world of Oren seem like a unique place, and not simply a backdrop for the story. In some chapters, the book jumps from the present with Prissy and Abi, to the past, where it follows a young girl’s life in the kingdom years ago. These segments from the past are not interesting enough to capture the reader’s attention and slow the book down. The biggest drawback is that the book’s ending is not believable. Different problems and intrigues are resolved too quickly and tidily to really be satisfying for the reader.
Prissy and Abi’s hot-air-balloon capers in Kingdom of Secrets will delight readers looking for an adventure story with a twist, so long as they don’t mind rather standard settings and a slap-dash ending.
🎈For my full review and recommendations for similar books, check out my book blog: https://newkidonthebookreviews.wordpr... 🎈
July 7, 2021
I received an electronic ARC from Random House Children's Publishing through NetGalley.
Though the book begins at a slow pace, the story picks up and brings the readers into the rebellion to overthrow the King of Oren. Early in the book, Abi blackmails Prismena to help her smuggle something in Pris's father's balloon. Things go wrong and Pris's father is thrown in prison for treason. Prismena struggles to understand what is really happening in their kingdom; Abi is committed to the rebellion and saving Palma from the war. Together, they form some tentative bonds to save Pris's father and get the messages to those who need them before the rebellion launches. Readers recognize that a friendship is blossoming through the stressful times they share. The other characters weave through their main storyline and several are revealed to be different from who they seem. The dramatic conclusion and resolution brings the kingdoms back to peace.
Morrell balances action and humor to appeal to middle grade readers. The story flows smoothly and the counterpoint story of Wren offers another view with further information about what has happened in the kingdom. Readers will easily visualize this setting and connect with the various characters.
Though the book begins at a slow pace, the story picks up and brings the readers into the rebellion to overthrow the King of Oren. Early in the book, Abi blackmails Prismena to help her smuggle something in Pris's father's balloon. Things go wrong and Pris's father is thrown in prison for treason. Prismena struggles to understand what is really happening in their kingdom; Abi is committed to the rebellion and saving Palma from the war. Together, they form some tentative bonds to save Pris's father and get the messages to those who need them before the rebellion launches. Readers recognize that a friendship is blossoming through the stressful times they share. The other characters weave through their main storyline and several are revealed to be different from who they seem. The dramatic conclusion and resolution brings the kingdoms back to peace.
Morrell balances action and humor to appeal to middle grade readers. The story flows smoothly and the counterpoint story of Wren offers another view with further information about what has happened in the kingdom. Readers will easily visualize this setting and connect with the various characters.
July 29, 2021
Absolutely delightful read--my daughter who is 9 thoroughly enjoyed this enchanting balloon filled adventure!
Update: Review by my nine year old daughter:
🦄🦄🦄🦄🦄/5 Unicorns
Amazing book. If someone asks me to describe it in one word, it would be “amazing”. I love how the plot of this story has many twists and turns. Abby’s clothing is also amazing!!! I really like how imaginative and creative Prissy is, if she couldn’t be a balloon maker, she would make an awesome inventor. The cover is wonderful, it’s really compelling!
DEFINITELY would recommend to everyone! LOVE THIS BOOK X 10000000000!!!!!!
Update: Review by my nine year old daughter:
🦄🦄🦄🦄🦄/5 Unicorns
Amazing book. If someone asks me to describe it in one word, it would be “amazing”. I love how the plot of this story has many twists and turns. Abby’s clothing is also amazing!!! I really like how imaginative and creative Prissy is, if she couldn’t be a balloon maker, she would make an awesome inventor. The cover is wonderful, it’s really compelling!
DEFINITELY would recommend to everyone! LOVE THIS BOOK X 10000000000!!!!!!
September 12, 2021
When I started reading this book, it caught me right away because Abi comes out of nowhere, blackmails Prissy, then her dad gets arrested, and really I truly had no idea what was going on! Since the book is in Prissy’s point of view it gives the reader the suspense and disbelief that Prismena has as the story begins. This makes you want to just keep reading to figure everything out.
Then, add in a second story about a mysterious young lady named Wren from the past that will crash land into the main story in a very unexpected way–it just sucks the reader in more!
In addition to the plot, I found the characters intriguing and very well crafted. The development of Prismena is definitely the highlight as she learns how to be on her own and have her own thoughts, but even the secondary characters had stories that Morrell found time to tell in the book. I do wish I knew more about Abi’s life, but maybe that will come in another book!
I also think the book is timely as it looks at government corruption and propaganda based in fear of others and loss of power. Because of Prismena’s ignorance, we get to experience the realizations as she does, so this allows for good discussions about these topics without bringing up current events.
I am pretty picky about high fantasy, but this one is one of my recent favorites, and I cannot wait to share it with my students!
Full review with teaching tools: http://www.unleashingreaders.com/?p=2...
Then, add in a second story about a mysterious young lady named Wren from the past that will crash land into the main story in a very unexpected way–it just sucks the reader in more!
In addition to the plot, I found the characters intriguing and very well crafted. The development of Prismena is definitely the highlight as she learns how to be on her own and have her own thoughts, but even the secondary characters had stories that Morrell found time to tell in the book. I do wish I knew more about Abi’s life, but maybe that will come in another book!
I also think the book is timely as it looks at government corruption and propaganda based in fear of others and loss of power. Because of Prismena’s ignorance, we get to experience the realizations as she does, so this allows for good discussions about these topics without bringing up current events.
I am pretty picky about high fantasy, but this one is one of my recent favorites, and I cannot wait to share it with my students!
Full review with teaching tools: http://www.unleashingreaders.com/?p=2...
December 7, 2020
Christyne Morrell's high-flying fantasy, KINGDOM OF SECRETS, is a thrilling ride with humor and heart! When Prismena's balloonist father is imprisoned because of her actions, her life becomes inextricably intertwined with an orphan named Abi and a rebellion meant to expose the truth behind her kingdom's rulers. I love books that involve girls realizing and using their power, and I love books that showcase girls in science and engineering. This book does BOTH, and does both beautifully. There's fabulous girl-power. Ballooning scenes are thrilling AND make you want to learn more about the engineering behind these fanciful contraptions. Lavish descriptions (the colors of the balloon fabric!) infuse the story with a kind of magic. And the relationship between Abi and Prismena (Abi calls Prissy 'gumdrop,' as in 'goody gumdrop') is the perfect sort of enemies-to-friends narrative. Highly recommend! Many thanks to Delacorte/Random House Kids for the eARC.
January 31, 2021
LOVED this twisty, heart-filled story of a balloonist's daughter who unexpectedly finds herself a critical player in a plot against the crown. Prissy has been perfectly happy playing it safe, always following the rules, until she's dragged into a seemingly minor bit of smuggling that quickly snowballs out of control and lands her father in prison, leaves her at the mercy of a group of rebels, and leads to surprising discoveries about her deceased mother. But as she races to save her father and extract herself from the deepening trouble surrounding her, who can she trust in a KINGDOM OF SECRETS?
January 8, 2021
I had the pleasure of reading the early drafts of this book and seeing it evolve into its final form. Even in its earliest stages, I could tell right away this was a book I would have loved as a kid. It's a fast-paced adventure set in an imaginative world, with clever and surprising twists. Morrell is a talented author who captures small details to draw out the humor in bleak situations, such as when Prissy is tossed in a home for unwanted children. Through the story, the vivid imagery of the balloons gives the story a magical feel.
January 18, 2021
I enjoyed this book tremendously! The story kept me guessing throughout, and I appreciated the ways in which the author built out the fictional world so that revelations felt earned and satisfying. The relationship between Prissy and Abi was a great anchor for the story, and I really enjoyed the way that female friendship ended up being the anchoring emotional bond of the story. The narrative voice was wryly humorous and engaging, and I loved the imagery throughout-- I an just picture the colorful hot air balloons that are so central to the text!
June 1, 2020
The author does a great job of immersing us in the fantastical world within the walled city of Oren and its flawed monarchy. There are no mythical creatures or magic spells, but there is a constant beautiful imagery of hot air balloons that makes everything feel a bit magical. The details of the political uprising are clear enough for younger readers while also showing the complexity of ruling a kingdom. Vivid details and two strong female protagonists make this adventure stand out.
May 10, 2021
In the heart of a fractured kingdom lie hidden truths that can grow to become the embers of change. Prismena Reece is the daughter of a balloonist, the only person who makes hot-air balloons apart from those under royal employ. Attempting to quell the pain that remains after her mother’s death, Prismena is surprised to discover a girl named Abigail Smeade inexplicably trailing her in order to procure her assistance. Reluctantly agreeing to Abi’s questionable plan, Prismena soon finds herself at the business end of a rebellion she never knew she needed.
Lovingly written, this story envelopes one girl’s journey to reveal her true character in the face of adversity. Though initially sheltered and mostly unaware of the unrest in her city of Oren, Prismena is quickly educated in the realities of her world. Friendship and loyalty are difficult to obtain, and though growing pains can be hard to manage, Prismena ultimately learns how to navigate the uncertainty and danger around her.
Two unique perspectives are interwoven within the narrative, giving readers insight into two different sides to this story. While the majority of the book is presented in traditional text, the second voice appears in italics to stand apart from the first. Readers will appreciate the mystery of the connection between these two plot points and be inspired to speculate along the way.
Echoes of The Hunger Games can be found in both the rebellion itself and its mysterious leader, serving as a beacon of hope to a downtrodden society. Carefully placed clues come together as the story unfolds, prompting readers to re-examine moments from earlier in the narrative in a different light. Limited violence takes place in this story, allowing the book to be accessible to a wide range of readers.
A multifaceted and inspirational tale, this book will leave readers pondering its message long after the story ends. Intentional elements reveal more than is obvious at first, giving the impression of a complex flower blooming and unfolding after a rainstorm. Stunning in design, this colorful tale is a captivating addition to libraries for middle grade readers.
Lovingly written, this story envelopes one girl’s journey to reveal her true character in the face of adversity. Though initially sheltered and mostly unaware of the unrest in her city of Oren, Prismena is quickly educated in the realities of her world. Friendship and loyalty are difficult to obtain, and though growing pains can be hard to manage, Prismena ultimately learns how to navigate the uncertainty and danger around her.
Two unique perspectives are interwoven within the narrative, giving readers insight into two different sides to this story. While the majority of the book is presented in traditional text, the second voice appears in italics to stand apart from the first. Readers will appreciate the mystery of the connection between these two plot points and be inspired to speculate along the way.
Echoes of The Hunger Games can be found in both the rebellion itself and its mysterious leader, serving as a beacon of hope to a downtrodden society. Carefully placed clues come together as the story unfolds, prompting readers to re-examine moments from earlier in the narrative in a different light. Limited violence takes place in this story, allowing the book to be accessible to a wide range of readers.
A multifaceted and inspirational tale, this book will leave readers pondering its message long after the story ends. Intentional elements reveal more than is obvious at first, giving the impression of a complex flower blooming and unfolding after a rainstorm. Stunning in design, this colorful tale is a captivating addition to libraries for middle grade readers.
May 19, 2021
Like taking a breathtaking ride in one of the beautiful hot air balloons that fill the story, Kingdom of Secrets is a delightful adventure from beginning to end. I loved journeying with a strong female characters Prismena and Abi through a magical, mysterious and complicated kingdom that was not all that it seemed to be on the surface. Morrell provides stunning imagery, rich detail, and and beautifully developed characters that make it a compelling adventure from beginning to end. It is a story of self-discovery, friendship, courage, and adventure, and it kept my middle grade readers turning the pages eagerly all the way through. Highly recommend!
September 21, 2021
This was such a fun book. Prismena, who's father is a balloonist, is blackmailed into doing something she doesn't want to by another girl she meets. What follows is an adventure she didn't see coming. This book is full of whimsy and intrigue as the reader finds out more about the kingdom of Oren and it's leaders. I loved the development of the girls' relationship throughout the book and how coming from two completely different worlds they were still able to find common ground and unite. Great book for middle graders!
May 8, 2021
An incredibly fun, well written story that kept me turning pages to find out what happened next. Great characters, wonderful pacing, and a fantastic use of language. Highly recommended for youngsters who love adventure!
October 6, 2021
In this fun, middle grade fantasy adventure, two girls who approach life with very different styles, Prismena and Abigail, have to learn to work together to save two kingdoms using hot air balloons and uniquely practical fashion design. It's a very enjoyable read!
June 25, 2021
Oren seems to be a normal kingdom. Built on a valley, it had a large wall around it, like a city wall. But on the inside, it had more secrets than you could imagine.
Prismena Reece, the balloonist’s daughter, is tinkering with some odds and ends when Abigail Smeade steals her mother’s scarf. The scarf is the only remnant of Prismena’s mother that she has, so she strikes a deal with Abigail: in return for the scarf, she would send a box to Tulera (another kingdom). Sounds simple, but this trade would not leave them unchanged.
The themes in this book include friendship, trust, and family relations. This book uses these themes to amplify the pacing of the story.
The pacing in this book develops quickly from the inciting incident right in the first chapter all the way to the climax and even in the resolution.
I recommend this book as a read-aloud for 8+ and as a reader for 10+.
I give this book 4.8/5 stars as the end had a few unexplained questions. Well, that didn't stop me from enjoying this book, and I really hope there will be a sequel. I absolutely love it and would love to read more books by the author.
Happy reading!
-Ayan
Prismena Reece, the balloonist’s daughter, is tinkering with some odds and ends when Abigail Smeade steals her mother’s scarf. The scarf is the only remnant of Prismena’s mother that she has, so she strikes a deal with Abigail: in return for the scarf, she would send a box to Tulera (another kingdom). Sounds simple, but this trade would not leave them unchanged.
The themes in this book include friendship, trust, and family relations. This book uses these themes to amplify the pacing of the story.
The pacing in this book develops quickly from the inciting incident right in the first chapter all the way to the climax and even in the resolution.
I recommend this book as a read-aloud for 8+ and as a reader for 10+.
I give this book 4.8/5 stars as the end had a few unexplained questions. Well, that didn't stop me from enjoying this book, and I really hope there will be a sequel. I absolutely love it and would love to read more books by the author.
Happy reading!
-Ayan
September 19, 2021
Abigail and Prismena are on opposite sides of a rebellion in the kingdom of Oren but find themselves tied together by a brightly colored silk scarf. King Michael has built a wall between Oren and Parma to stop the war between the nations, but rebels are everywhere. Prismena and her dad have always followed King Michael’s laws and carefully flown their hot air balloons within allowable airspace and also file the correct paperwork. When Prismena agrees to sneak a package onto a flight to Parma for the rebels in order to retrieve the scarf formerly belonging to her now dead mother, her father is thrown into the castle’s dungeon and she is drawn into a rebellion that she does not believe in. Debut author Christine Morrell’s world of kings, castles, and firmly established castes is rich and full of soldiers, orphans, the rich and privileged, and the poor and downtrodden and hope for something better. The main character girls are different in appearance and gifts—Prissy being fair-skinned, compliant and an inventive engineer while Abi is dark, disdainful of rules, and a budding fashion designer. Circumstances will force them to find a way to combine their gifts to accomplish feats that they could never do apart. Excellent action adventure book for strong 4th grade readers through 6th or 7th grade. No profanity or sexual content, but there are several episodes of war-related violence and the conditions in the dungeons are dire. The detail, however, is relatively mild and should not be disturbing to the students or the parents of those students.
July 26, 2021
Excellent world building in this middle grade fantasy set in the kingdom of Oren. I was pulled headfirst into this tale. I would love to travel here again on a new adventure with Abi and Prissy!
September 1, 2021
Kingdom of Secrets by Christyne Morell was a delightful read. While a lot of middle grade is about magical kids this book was simply about a brave group of kids fighting against a tyrannical kingdom.
The land has been separated into two countries causing the countrymen outside of the wall to be poor and the people to have to live under authoritative rule and some times separated from their families.
This is a great story about an unlikely friendship between Prissy and Abi. I really enjoyed the complexity of their friendship. Also, it cast the two main girl characters as smart, ingenuitive, and using science and imagination to get out of the tough situations they found themselves in.
I loved how three dimensional all the characters were. They were not just brave or just proud or just weak; they were all scared and sometimes they were all annoying or sometimes they were all sanctimonious.
I also like the sense of mystery and surprise that was given to the story. We don't see as many twists in a middle grade fantasy as this book gives.
If you want to foster bravery, adventure, thinking for one's own self, loyalty, and care for others in your kids I would recommend Kingdom of Secrets.
Thanks to Netgally for the e-arc for this book.
The land has been separated into two countries causing the countrymen outside of the wall to be poor and the people to have to live under authoritative rule and some times separated from their families.
This is a great story about an unlikely friendship between Prissy and Abi. I really enjoyed the complexity of their friendship. Also, it cast the two main girl characters as smart, ingenuitive, and using science and imagination to get out of the tough situations they found themselves in.
I loved how three dimensional all the characters were. They were not just brave or just proud or just weak; they were all scared and sometimes they were all annoying or sometimes they were all sanctimonious.
I also like the sense of mystery and surprise that was given to the story. We don't see as many twists in a middle grade fantasy as this book gives.
If you want to foster bravery, adventure, thinking for one's own self, loyalty, and care for others in your kids I would recommend Kingdom of Secrets.
Thanks to Netgally for the e-arc for this book.
September 1, 2021
Kingdom of Secrets by Christyne Morell was a delightful read. While a lot of middle grade is about magical kids this book was simply about a brave group of kids fighting against a tyrannical kingdom.
The land has been separated into two countries causing the countrymen outside of the wall to be poor and the people to have to live under authoritative rule and some times separated from their families.
This is a great story about an unlikely friendship between Prissy and Abi. I really enjoyed the complexity of their friendship. Also, it cast the two main girl characters as smart, ingenuitive, and using science and imagination to get out of the tough situations they found themselves in.
I loved how three dimensional all the characters were. They were not just brave or just proud or just weak; they were all scared and sometimes they were all annoying or sometimes they were all sanctimonious.
I also like the sense of mystery and surprise that was given to the story. We don't see as many twists in a middle grade fantasy as this book gives.
If you want to foster bravery, adventure, thinking for one's own self, loyalty, and care for others in your kids I would recommend Kingdom of Secrets.
Thanks to Netgally for the e-arc for this book.
The land has been separated into two countries causing the countrymen outside of the wall to be poor and the people to have to live under authoritative rule and some times separated from their families.
This is a great story about an unlikely friendship between Prissy and Abi. I really enjoyed the complexity of their friendship. Also, it cast the two main girl characters as smart, ingenuitive, and using science and imagination to get out of the tough situations they found themselves in.
I loved how three dimensional all the characters were. They were not just brave or just proud or just weak; they were all scared and sometimes they were all annoying or sometimes they were all sanctimonious.
I also like the sense of mystery and surprise that was given to the story. We don't see as many twists in a middle grade fantasy as this book gives.
If you want to foster bravery, adventure, thinking for one's own self, loyalty, and care for others in your kids I would recommend Kingdom of Secrets.
Thanks to Netgally for the e-arc for this book.
February 12, 2021
Thank you to the author and Delacorte Press for an eARC of this book.
This magical adventure by debut author Christyne Morrell takes place in the kingdom of Oren. Prismena (Prissy) helps her father with his hot air balloon business, which deliver supplies and packages over the Wall that protects their part of the country. When Prissy meets a girl named Abi who blackmails her to sneak a parcel onto one of her dad's flights, he gets arrested for smuggling. As Prissy tries to figure out a way to free her father, she becomes further embroiled in Abi's secret plans to get a message over the Wall, and ends up part of a bigger cause that will change Oren forever. But there's also a mystery involved, and we flashback to the past to understand a time before the Wall existed, and what other secrets are being kept in Oren.
There are so many creative elements to this story that I really enjoyed. Prissy uses her skills in balloon making in unique ways to help send signals, and her willingness to experiment and try new ideas saves their mission on more than one occasion. I loved how Abi's power over Prissy kept Prissy challenging herself and what she was capable of, and we saw her confidence and desire to fight for what's right grow with each accomplishment. I loved the way the kingdom's past was woven in with the present, and I couldn't wait to read the next flashback section that slowly unraveled that secret. This story felt as colorful as the balloons that travelled through the skies, and unexpected events blew it off course in directions the reader didn't expect.
I think fantasy readers will really enjoy this story that has themes of family, friendship, and the fight for justice.
This magical adventure by debut author Christyne Morrell takes place in the kingdom of Oren. Prismena (Prissy) helps her father with his hot air balloon business, which deliver supplies and packages over the Wall that protects their part of the country. When Prissy meets a girl named Abi who blackmails her to sneak a parcel onto one of her dad's flights, he gets arrested for smuggling. As Prissy tries to figure out a way to free her father, she becomes further embroiled in Abi's secret plans to get a message over the Wall, and ends up part of a bigger cause that will change Oren forever. But there's also a mystery involved, and we flashback to the past to understand a time before the Wall existed, and what other secrets are being kept in Oren.
There are so many creative elements to this story that I really enjoyed. Prissy uses her skills in balloon making in unique ways to help send signals, and her willingness to experiment and try new ideas saves their mission on more than one occasion. I loved how Abi's power over Prissy kept Prissy challenging herself and what she was capable of, and we saw her confidence and desire to fight for what's right grow with each accomplishment. I loved the way the kingdom's past was woven in with the present, and I couldn't wait to read the next flashback section that slowly unraveled that secret. This story felt as colorful as the balloons that travelled through the skies, and unexpected events blew it off course in directions the reader didn't expect.
I think fantasy readers will really enjoy this story that has themes of family, friendship, and the fight for justice.
August 30, 2021
This is a great adventure. I loved the way the author revealed Wren's part of the story and the many twists that came with it. The main characters were well written and I particularly enjoyed seeing the personal growth the girls went through as they learned to trust each other. The setting is also well done I particularly enjoyed the contrast between the different neighborhoods of the kingdom. This really helped flesh out how the whole kingdom was effected by the war and what the resistance was trying to achieve. Overall it is a great story.
January 2, 2022
I love books featuring main characters with unusual interests, so when I learned about Prismena’s love for hot air balloons, I already loved this book. I had a lot of fun reading it. It’s a sweet story, but it does have some darker moments. Some chapters are written in Italics and tell a story from the past, and that has a lot more tragedy than the chapters from Prismena’s perspective.
The story really centers around Prismena and Abi. At first Prismena is hesitant to get involved in the revolution with Abi, but as she learns more about what’s truly happening in the kingdom as well as some new things about her own past, she begins to feel like fighting may be her only option. I felt like that transformation was well done and felt true to her character. I also really enjoyed the way that her interest in inventing things and flying hot air balloons were worked into the story.
I think readers who enjoyed THE DRAGON WITH THE CHOCOLATE HEART by Stephanie Burgis or THE UNICORN QUEST by Kamilla Benko will love this book.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The story really centers around Prismena and Abi. At first Prismena is hesitant to get involved in the revolution with Abi, but as she learns more about what’s truly happening in the kingdom as well as some new things about her own past, she begins to feel like fighting may be her only option. I felt like that transformation was well done and felt true to her character. I also really enjoyed the way that her interest in inventing things and flying hot air balloons were worked into the story.
I think readers who enjoyed THE DRAGON WITH THE CHOCOLATE HEART by Stephanie Burgis or THE UNICORN QUEST by Kamilla Benko will love this book.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 6, 2021
I was able to read an early copy of this book and it blew me away! I loved the dynamic between the two main characters. Abi is wild and free while Prissy is more nervous and sheltered, but eventually they find common ground they didn’t know they shared. The hot-air balloon scenes made me hold my breath and there was lots of humor sprinkled in (I loved the palace guards!). The message at the end was about finding your own place in the world and rethinking the things you were taught as a child, which middle grade readers will definitely relate to. It’s hard to rave about this book without giving away spoilers, because there were so many twists I didn’t see coming! You just have to read it and see for yourself.
August 30, 2021
When a street urchin blackmails her, a hot air balloonist's daughter (and aspiring engineer) finds herself swept up in a rebellious cause to save a queen.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher in order to write this review.
A delightful middle grade debut featuring girls in STEM! The girls have distinct and wonderful voices that make you cheer for them throughout their struggles. The social commentary is light-handed and thoroughly integrated into the plot, and as in all good MG fiction, the children are the moral compass and the agents of change. The world felt grounded in our own, while the hot air balloons added a whimsical quality to this magic-free fantasy. Highly recommend to middle grade readers, teachers, and book clubs!
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher in order to write this review.
A delightful middle grade debut featuring girls in STEM! The girls have distinct and wonderful voices that make you cheer for them throughout their struggles. The social commentary is light-handed and thoroughly integrated into the plot, and as in all good MG fiction, the children are the moral compass and the agents of change. The world felt grounded in our own, while the hot air balloons added a whimsical quality to this magic-free fantasy. Highly recommend to middle grade readers, teachers, and book clubs!
August 19, 2020
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to read this fun, riveting story early, and once I started reading, I could not stop. This book has so much going for it: high adventure, unexpected twists, an enchanting world with a fairy-tale feel, a unique, lovable, spunky main character, and family secrets, especially that universal kid experience of getting to know your parents as complex human beings, not just Mom and Dad. I’m so excited this book will soon be in kids’ hands, and I know they will love it as much as I do.
August 28, 2021
A delightful tale of girl power! And STEM! Fantastic worldbuilding and colorful language help make this lively story a riveting one. The multi-layered plot kept me guessing. This will appeal to a broad range of MG readers.
Most importantly, the interaction between Prismena and Abigail moves this along at a breezy pace. I was impressed by their character growth and the changes in their relationship, as they learn to work together to right the wrongs in the kingdom of Oren.
My favorite line (from p. 168 of the hardcover): "The balloon was a machine, but flying it was a dance."
Most importantly, the interaction between Prismena and Abigail moves this along at a breezy pace. I was impressed by their character growth and the changes in their relationship, as they learn to work together to right the wrongs in the kingdom of Oren.
My favorite line (from p. 168 of the hardcover): "The balloon was a machine, but flying it was a dance."
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