From page one, this coming-of-age tale is unlike any other. Its unusual plot—chock-full of stunning detail and all things unexpected—and its strikingly real characters, draw readers into the story's emotion and the authentic "growing up" struggles it personifies. Each character offers a deep and differing look into the struggles kids face as they mature and, thrown together on an unlikely adventure, the four adolescents show just how powerful true friendship can be. With strong themes of being true to yourself, accepting the consequences of actions, and learning to see others for who they really are, this fast-moving, action-packed adventure begs a great discussion.

While this story is full of magic and clearly fantasy, its characters, their emotions, and the situations they face are so realistic that it provides an authentic springboard for some important discussions among older readers. This is a rare book that many different kinds of readers will enjoy and teachers can use to teach or reinforce important lessons about growing up in an authentic format. For generations, the Beaumont family has harbored a magical secret. They each possess a savvy--a supernatural power they acquire at 13. On the eve of Mibs's big day, she finds herself on an unforgettable odyssey that will force her to make sense of growing up.