The Frights of Fiji by Sunayna Prasad

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


A magic-laden plot with a nice touch of mystery and suspense!

The Frights of Fiji is the debut novel by young author Sunayna Prasad and the first in the planned seven-volume, middle-grade fantasy series, Alyssa McCarthy's Magical Missions. With its realistically relatable young heroine, her friends, and family members leading the action, this first book was a fun and imaginative adventure where good triumphs over great odds and the evil behind it.

A major strength of the story lies in the realistic portrayal of the pre-teen characters, with their friendships, rivalries, and squabbles. Alyssa and Hailey relate to each other like siblings, and 'mean girl' Destiny Cox brings conflict into the group of friends. Much of the dialogue feels authentic and true to life. I liked that the author had adults who made regretful decisions but later apologized for their hasty actions.

The plot slowly divulges the main characters' backstories while maintaining the action's pace. The current menace is confronted and dealt with, and the book concludes on a positive note, leaving plenty of room for future adventures.

I recommend THE FRIGHTS OF FIJI to middle-grade readers who enjoy a magic-laden plot with a nice touch of mystery and suspense.

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