While I realise this book was written for a younger audience, I found the book's writing overly abrupt.
I cannot in good conscience recommend it. ( )

Princess Olivia and the kingdom of Bellumen have been cursed by the Dream Witch who has kidnapped all the children in the kingdom and who also intends to steal Olivia's heart. Along with her pet mouse and unlikely peasant ally, Milo, Olivia vows to conquer the Dream Witch and save the children of Bellumen. This is a great adventure tale laced with humor. I was especially drawn in by Olivia, a strong and determined character who courageously faces obstacles in her path. This engaging and fast-paced novel that will appeal to readers primarily from ages 10-13. This book is nominated for the 2015 Red Cedar award. ( )

Remember the allure of reading when you were a child? There were certain stories that held your imagination because they were filled with magic and far off places, silly words and lovable creatures. Allan Stratton is one such person who remembers those tales well, and he has created his own such story in his children’s book Curse of The Dream Witch.

http://pacifictranquility.wordpress.com/2014/01/14/magic-in-the-age-of-dread-rev... ( )

The Good Stuff

Once again Stratton delivers a totally delightfully dark, fast paced story that readers both young and old will thoroughly enjoy.
Fast paced - even the most reluctant reader will eat this up (ok and I couldn`t put it down either, I read it in one day)
Good for both male and female readers
Fun fairytale setting with a strong Princess who is willing to sacrifice herself and do what is right. There are talking animals, nasty princes, a creepy witch and magic, what is not to like
Lots of twists and turns and at times you are not sure that Olivia or Milo are going to survive
Lots of despicable bad guys to cheer against
Lots of well meaning involved parents (although seriously, come on King and Queen - you never, ever, EVER ask a dark witch for something - you should know by now that this never works out in your favor)
Love the mouse!
Some nice dark humour
Kids save the day
Good messages about bravery, friendship, family, growing up, forgiveness and not done in that preachy way that irritates both children and me
Plenty of dark magic and gross stuff - don`t want to spoil anything but love how the children are stored (Read it, you will understand)
Fabulous cover

The Not So Good Stuff

Not as much character development as in The Graverobbers Apprentice, but that may work better for the reluctant reader

Favorite Quotes/Passages



`Why do you lie to me ? To shut me up ? To make me feel better ? Well, I don`t feel better and I won`t shut up.``

``That`s another thing. What kind of name is Penelope ?

``It`s no worse than Ephemia.``

`That depends which century you grew up,`` the wizard sniffed.``

`Courage isn`t feeling brave. It`s fighting fear.``

5 Dewey`s

I received this from Scholastic in exchange for an honest review. Thanks guys for once again sending me something truly delightful that I cannot wait to share with my kids, co-workers and customers ( )