Reading Metrics
Description
When life gets too boring, she takes a trip to her fantasy world. But the power Emily finds in her make- believe world may be more than she can handle.
Quick Summary
If you're looking for a story that mixes laugh-out-loud moments with a dash of the creeps, "Special Powers" by Mary Hoffman is a solid pick. Emily, a middle-grader bored with everyday life, slips into a secret, imaginative realm where she suddenly gets magical abilities but the power quickly spirals out of control, leading to a mix of mischief, mayhem, and a few truly spooky setbacks. It's perfect for readers who love fantasy adventures like "The Magic Finger" or the "Percy Jackson" series, especially those who enjoy a heroine who's both clever and a little over-confident. Parents will be happy to hear the book stays in PG-friendly territory, with just enough tension to keep kids on the edge of their seats but nothing too graphic. The story also gently explores how imagination can be a tool for problem-solving, while reminding readers that with great power comes responsibility, and by the end you'll be rooting for Emily to rein in her abilities and get back to a normal life without losing the fun of her secret world.