Mia and the Lightcasters by Janelle McCurdy ~ Blog Tour

Sometimes you come across a story that jumps off the page so visually that it seems like you’re watching a film instead of reading words on a page. Mia and the Lightcasters is one of those books. Packed full of action, mystery and personal struggle from the very first page, readers will be swept up in Mia’s adventure and determination to save her family from destruction.

Mia used to dream of being an umbra tamer. She’d heard amazing stories about these mysterious creatures but, in reality, had no idea what they were actually like. One terrifying experience on Nightmare Plains leaves her with a fear from which she can’t recover and her confidence in tatters. Now she wishes this important yet risky job could go to anyone but her.

When her moonlit home, Nubis, becomes even darker, Mia is forced to face her fears. Suddenly, friends aren’t who they seem, her parents are in danger and she has no choice but to embrace the Legend of the Lightcasters. She must discover her truth and find the light to save them all.

Mia’s voice is strong throughout this fast-paced story. Readers will relate to her anxiety and fear that she will never be strong enough to do what is expected of her. Mia’s relationship with her little brother is full of love and she shows such loyalty in her friendships. As she grows, she proves that she isn’t a girl to underestimate (even when underestimating herself).

The umbra are wonderful creatures. Wise, challenging, encouraging and terrifying, they challenge readers’ trust and comfort. As Mia grows stronger in her powers and closer to the umbra, we learn that facing our fears isn’t easy but is necessary in order to step forward into our destiny.

Mia and the Lightcasters will be incredibly popular with Upper Key Stage Two and Key Stage Three readers. Capable readers from about Year Four will love this heart-stopping adventure.

Thank you to Faber Children’s for this fantastic book and for inviting me to be a part of the blog tour. Be sure to visit the other blogs for more information about Mia and the Lightcasters.