The Shape-Shifter’s Curse is a part of a series called The Magic Repair Shop. This is book two and is intended for ages 9-12, but certainly there is a wider audience that can enjoy Amanda Marrone’s writing. The book could stand alone, but is much better read in sequence as this one picks up right where the first one, The Multiplying Menace, leaves off. A little back story for those just joining the series, Maggie has been kicked out of several schools because her magic keeps getting her in trouble, and so she is sent to a private school. This school has all the problems that a regular school has (snotty girls, boys, etc.) as well as the twist of magic thrown in.

In The Shape-Shifter’s Curse, Maggie has problems—she must prove her magical ability or lose her magic. To do this, she must go to Scotland and be tested. Along the way, there are many dangers as she travels, as well as the snotty Davenports who are determined that Maggie must not succeed. There is a ton that goes on in these books. Maggie meets new people, is thrown different obstacles in the form of danger, magic and human emotions and learns that if she doesn’t solve this latest problem, she might be the next victim. Marrone did really well with this series; at times it can read young (for those of us adults who are enjoying it), but I really recommend it for middle schoolers and younger (if you have a voracious reader on your hands). The plot is great, the characters determined, and Marrone does a fantastic job of pulling the readers in to Maggie’s world and empathizing with each character, even Darcy Davenport. Enjoy!

Book Stats:

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
• Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Aladdin; Original edition (November 2, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 9781416990345
• ISBN-13: 978-1416990345

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Books in the Magic Repair Shop series in the order they should be read:
The Multiplying Menace
The Shape-Shifter’s Curse
Master of Mirrors