A Wilder Magic

Magic resides in the valley where Sybaline lives and has done for generations. She, her brothers, and her cousins have grown up hearing stories about her ancestors, now buried in the family cemetery nearby, using and abusing magic. When a representative from the Tennessee Valley Authority informs Sybaline’s mother and aunts that the valley will soon be flooded to “help with the war effort,” the adults admit defeat and start packing. Sybaline has different ideas. She is going to use the magic of the valley to keep her little corner of it so she can stay where the magic is forever. However, as the water rises, the magic changes, and her cousins show up, she realizes she may be risking too much to stay.

Set in the Appalachian Mountains during a world war, the story is defined by the love of family and loss of roots to a beloved home. Sybaline is courageous and determined, and the supporting characters are the kind of family and friends every kid wants and needs. Readers who enjoyed the Savvy series by Ingrid Law and Drizzle by Kathleen Van Cleve will love this little gem.