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Aliya and the Shop of Second Chances
Book Review
This book is about time travel and magic
This book is about time travel and magic, so it is a fantasy story. It is set in the past and takes place in the city. It starts in a shop where the main character, Aliya, is opening portals to places in another time. And the story continues from there…
Aliya, is brave, kind and thoughtful when it comes to others. She is good at putting herself in other people’s shoes.
Overall, it is quite a good book but not the type that I particularly enjoy because I prefer books that are more about adventure and humour. I felt this story was quite serious and restricted.
I also think it was a bit slow to get started. For example it took about 3 chapters before you discover a secret about a surprising character (spoiler alert!). It then took another 2 chapters for the story to really kick in.
However, I liked the end where there was a bit more action but I think that the beginning was a bit too calm and not that much was happening. I think that this is not really the right book for me.
I would rate this for ages 8 to 10. I think that story wise, it is for slightly older children, but pace wise, (as in how fast things happen) I recommend it to younger readers.
About the Book
The third and final instalment in this stunning middle-Eastern inspired series.
A sparkling and magical story, for fans of Nura and the Immortal Palace and The Kingdom Over the Sea! Aliya is looking forward to the Infinite City’s time-travelling flying carpet race.
But when her fellow locksmiths vanish on the course and the power source for time travel is left unguarded, she has to delve into her past to save her world from arch-villain Dorian Darke and his shapeshifting shop of darkness.
Author
Laila Rifaat
Laila Rifaat is a Swedish-born children’s author and editor who writes imaginative middle-grade fantasy novels often inspired by her life in Cairo, Egypt, where she has lived for over two decades. She holds an M.A. in English and Comparative Literature, has worked as an ESL and IGCSE teacher, and now balances writing with raising her four children. Rifaat’s debut book Aliya to the Infinite City and other works blend adventure, time travel, and rich cultural influences from Egyptian history and mythology
Reviewer Profile
Flo, 10
- Reviews: 2
- Likes : reading, art and bulldog Lenny
- Dislikes : running and asparagus (too mushy!)
- Superpower: flying (whilst dreaming)
- Favourite Book: Cinderella is Dead by Kalynn Bayron
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