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Description
Centered on the four Martin sisters, especially the youngest, Silly, this middle-grade novel blends realistic family drama with a thread of mysterious magic. When their mother falls seriously ill, the sisters must navigate grief, sibling conflict, and the painful discovery of past abuse in their home. The fragile magic they uncover offers a glimmer of hope as they learn to rely on each other and confront the darkness together.
Quick Summary
Imagine four sisters trying to keep a little sparkle in their lives while their mom is fighting a serious illness, and then they stumble upon a mysterious rulebook that lets them literally steal stars to make wishes come true. That's the heart of this story it's a mix of realistic family struggle and a dash of whimsical magic that makes the hard moments feel a bit lighter, while still taking the serious stuff (like a parent's sickness and some scenes of child abuse) seriously. If you love sibling banter, the way they band together, and a touch of fantasy, you'll find this book hard to put down; it's perfect for kids who enjoy the emotional punch of "A Monster Calls" but want a sprinkle of magical realism. Parents should know the book doesn't shy away from painful topics there's a mother in and out of the hospital and a few realistic, non-graphic depictions of abuse that might prompt a conversation. The sisters spend the story inventing and following secret rules, experimenting with the star-stealing trick, and learning that hope can be both scary and wonderful. If you're looking for a middle-grade read that feels both heartfelt and a little bit magical, this one hits the spot.