My 10-year-old's pick for the must-give book this season

We are very fortunate in our house. Because I am a blogger, I am sent books and other products to review. My 10-year-old daughter loves this as much as I do, and she will often read and review the age-appropriate titles that we are sent for me. After all, who better to evaluate middle-grade books than a kid in that age group, right?

Anyway, I asked her what her pick would be for the best book she's reviewed recently, the one she thinks should be under every Christmas tree this year. Here's what she chose:

The Magic Misfits, by actor, magician, and NY TImes best-selling author, Neil Patrick Harris (probably best known for his role as Barney Stinson on How I Met Your Mother). Now, my daughter doesn't know anything about NPH as an actor. All she knows is that she absolutely LOVED this book! She read it lightning-fast, and is really really hoping there is a sequel. (As I write this, NPH is on the Ellen Show, and he just announced the book is part of a four-book series! WAHOO! Good news.)

Here's the gist:

Street magician Carter runs away, never expecting to make friends and find magic in a small town. Soon, Carter teams up with five other magic-obsessed young people, and together the band of "misfits" use their magic (and their wits) to stop B.B. Bosso and his crew, a group of no-good carnies determined to steal anything in their sights. Can Carter and friends save the little town of Mineral Wells from Bosso and his posse?

Aside from being a magic adventure full of friendship, resilience, and discovering one's own self worth, what makes this book extra magical is that along the way, kids will also learn how to make some magic of their own.

As a parent, I love when authors write books that are fun and entertaining for children, with life lessons peppered in without being preachy. As if I didn't already love Neil Patrick Harris and his awesome family, this book will give you and your kids another reason to think he's awesome. (if you don't follow him on Instagram, you should: @nph -- You're welcome).

If you have a child who loves magic, this book is a great gift idea! It's 10-year-old approved!

I received the book mentioned in this post from Hachette Book Group for review. All opinions are my own -- and that of my daughter :)

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