Tale of the Flying Forest by R.M. Romero
Rating: 3 stars
Release Date: October 15, 2024
Format: eBook (Library) + ARC (from Publisher)
Publisher: Little Brown Books for Young Readers
Rating: 3 stars
Release Date: October 15, 2024
Format: eBook (Library) + ARC (from Publisher)
Publisher: Little Brown Books for Young Readers
Tale of the Flying Forest by R.M. Romero delivers on its promise of being a Jewish take on Narnia, with plenty of folktale and fairytale influences. It's also reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland at times. While I found it a little difficult to stay engaged while reading, the illustrations added to the story’s charm and worldbuilding. I also enjoyed the third-person narration, particularly the moments when the narrator broke the fourth wall to address the reader directly.
I appreciated the book’s strong focus on family, kindness and representation. I can also see the Hansel and Gretel comparisons, though the story feels more like Gretel following clues through a magical forest to piece together the story of a lost brother (Hansel) she’s never met.
Overall, this was an enjoyable middle grade read with some interesting ideas, even if it didn’t quite leave a lasting impression on me.

What a thoughtful and honest review! I really appreciate how you broke down the plot, characters, and writing style without giving away too much of the magic. The comparison to a modern Grimm tale has me completely sold, and I love that this is a story about a storybook world falling apart. Adding this one to my reading list for sure.
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