REVIEWS & REFLECTIONS
Stories truly come to life when they find a reader. In this space, you’ll find a collection of reviews and reflections from those who have spent time immersed in my stories. Whether you’re looking for your next great read or curious about how my stories have resonated with others, I invite you to consider these insights from fellow readers.
Reviews & Reflections: Zahra of the Uwharries series
Society of the Sentinelia
(book 1)
"This book starts out with a bang that leaves Zahra, a spunky Scraebin small enough to live in a birdhouse, searching for her family. Throughout Zahra's journey, she puts her trust in unlikely friends--beings she was taught to fear. The story is fast-paced with plenty of exciting twists and turns.
"The world of fairies and scraebins (all fairies are scraebins but not all scraebins are fairies) created by author Micki Bare is imaginative and fun. I especially loved the underlying themes of ecology and not 'judging a book by its cover.' One of my favorite couplet of lines follows a realization that even though Zahra had been taught to fear cats, she has found a new truth. "...my heart tells me not all cats are dangerous. Maybe we need to learn about a cat before we decide if it's good or bad." A universal message!"
- Kimberly J. (5-star Goodreads review)
Blind Fairy
(book 2)
"Micki Bare crafts a charming and imaginative fantasy adventure in Blind Fairy: Zahra of the Uwharries, continuing the magical journey introduced in the Zahra of the Uwharries series. The story follows Zahra, a reluctant young scraebin thrust into a critical role when her colony faces a mysterious threat. Her reluctant acceptance of the title “The Convener” sets her on a quest filled with unexpected allies, dangers, and self-discovery.
"The novel blends fantasy, nature, and environmental themes with a heartfelt coming-of-age journey. Zahra’s evolving courage, combined with the introduction of a blind fairy and a human child who complicates the mission, creates emotional depth and tension. The forest setting is vividly imagined, adding a strong sense of place to the narrative. Blind Fairy is a thoughtful and engaging fantasy for young readers who enjoy stories about courage, destiny, and unlikely friendships."
-Graeme Williams (5-star Goodreads review)
Omega Crag
(book 3)
"Micki Bare's Omega Crag is a superbly written piece of literature that will sweep readers away on an enchanting, one-of-a-kind escapade!
"The author's exceptional creativity and remarkable skill are evident in the way they have crafted such authentic characters and woven an exceedingly intricate, compelling plot. Unlike traditional fairy-based tales, Bare introduces a plethora of innovative elements such as Scraebins, Heart Animals, The Trilaterian, Rain Flowers, and more, injecting a fresh and unique twist into the genre. These imaginative components breathe life and excitement into the story, transporting readers to a fascinating world unlike any other.
"The protagonist Zahra emerges as a remarkable heroine who is sure to command admiration from readers. Her determination and positive traits are truly inspiring, making her a character that readers will root for and remember long after finishing the book. I particularly enjoyed how through the use of this compelling individual, the narrative delves into significant themes such as anger resolution and the benefits of meditation in difficult situations. This makes it a thought-provoking and impactful read that can offer valuable insights for children.
"On the whole, Omega Crag emerges as a beacon of ingenuity in the realm of children's literature, offering a fresh and exhilarating perspective that is sure to spark the imagination of readers far and wide."
= Louise Jane (5-star Goodreads review)
Kimimila Returns
(book 4)
"In Kimimila Returns: Zahra of the Uwharries, Micki Bare showcases her trademark mix of engaging narratives and immersive backdrops, which contributes to the book's and the series' resounding success. The attention to detail is, as usual, extraordinary, lending a sense of realism to the story that keeps you engrossed in the pages.
"The story progresses through a series of mysterious revelations, with each twist and turn igniting a sense of excitement and wonder that propels you onward, keen to reveal what is next. After having travelled alongside these characters before, I was swiftly drawn into this new chapter, which possesses a more substantial tone than its earlier counterparts, a progression I sincerely value in a book series, enabling readers to grow with the characters.
"The evolution of Zahra, the protagonist, is particularly striking; as she faces her most formidable challenges yet, we are granted a deeper glimpse into her multifaceted personality. This small yet mighty character, whose gifts are inherently directed toward goodness, finds herself vulnerable to the forces that threaten her. Despite the shadows of sadness, worry, and pressure that loom over her, Zahra embodies courage, loyalty, and a steadfast moral compass, all while embracing the values of kindness and self-belief, even in the face of daunting adversity.
"Interlaced with wisdom, the tale examines the intricacies of dealing with difficult emotions, particularly the need to let go of anger. It also brings to light a significant lesson: our interdependence, which I enjoyed, and the necessity of supporting each other. Moreover, friends can exist in a multitude of forms!
"Ultimately, I wholeheartedly endorse this book and the entire series, as it is a remarkable journey that encourages readers to appreciate the beauty of imagination, collaboration and the strength that comes from unity."
= Louise Jane (5-star Goodreads review)
Reviews & Reflections: Thurston T. Turtle series
Thurston T. Turtle Moves to Hubbleville
"I read this book with my 6yo. daughter who is in kindergarten and reading on her own, but not chapter books like this. She loved it and so did I! We read a chapter each night and coming back to where we left off, discussing what had just happened in the book, was a great exercise in reading comprehension. It also gave us something to look forward to each day: reading together!
"This book is about a friendly turtle, Thurston, who moves to Hubbleville and gets to know all the friendly 'people' (they're all animals!) in town. He does, however, manage to inadvertently elude the person most anxious to meet him: Mr. Possum! Mr. Possum is the town newspaper editor and a bit of a busybody. We had a lot of fun with this character, talking in a silly voice.
"This book is a great children's book for a wide age rage. Kids who can read on their own would enjoy it, and if your child has the attention span to listen to a chapter at a time (maybe 2-3 pages),they'd love it, too. My 3yo. couldn't stick with it but the 6yo. loved it!"
-SeeMomClick (5-star Amazon Review)
Thurston T. Turtle and the Legend of the Lemonade
"Once again I feel like Micki really wrote a great book for all ages, especially us Turtle lovers. This book is a little longer than the first book so it took us a couple of sessions to read it to Jude. Jude really enjoyed the illustrations and pointing out the animals. He is probably a little young for this book but I know that in a couple of years it will fit
his personality.
"I believe this book would be perfect for a 6-8 year old boy or girl. This book is great for bedtime reading together or even great for the children to read on their own. Easy to
read and great story that will really attract the kiddos!
"I really enjoyed this second story about Thurston – this time we were brought into a little mystery about butter cookies and lemonade! While Mr. Turtle’s second grade class uncovers other similarities, it is the discovery of old letters, help from the
scattered Mr. Possum and a visit to an old family friend that converge to reveal the legend of the lemonade. And the butter cookies, too, of course! All of our old friends are back to share the mystery of the cookies and lemonade. So fun! "
- Mom Blogger Censie Sawyer
Thurston T. Turtle and the Precarious Puppy
"This series is great for young reader who are just starting to read chapter books. There are a lot if interesting elements that you can discuss with your children. ... such as friendship, problem solving, kindness and what makes each of us special and important.
"My boys loved listening to me read to them and my older son loved being able to read these books to me. These are books that you can snuggle in and read together!"
- Blogger Mrs. Mommy Booknerd