We really enjoyed this book. The children (who range from 5 to 14 ) all equally enjoyed this story. It has enough adventure and excitement to hold all of them with interest. The human / animal connections were delightful and loved by the youngest of our family (who is even now trying to bond with next doors cat). The main characters were so well written that we all were rooting for them.

*4.5 stars*

To genify, or not?

Calico Rae-The Twisted Towers by Doug Weller was a magical adventure of a sibling relationship and their connection to animals. On a side note, let’s face it, I’m totally a genifier, too! Calico Rae- The Twisted Towers is a story of a 12 year old girl, who’s parents are divorced and have left her at her uncle’s house, is able to connect with animals on a deep level. Not only does she have this ability, but so does her brother Luca, who was taken. Due to the sudden kidnapping, her, her new friends, and the bird lady, go off on a journey to find and rescue Luca.

This was a really fun story! I loved the beginning of the story. It was written so masterfully. By putting so much action and exposition right at the beginning, I was filled in on most of the important parts. As the reader, I was informed of the relationships between Luca and Calico, their parents with each other and with them, the powers that Luca has as well as how they live. It was so much expressed in such a short time, brilliant.

The only issue I had was that the plot was slow burning in the beginning. It took a little longer than I was expecting for the inciting incident (the thing that thrusted us into the whole point of the story) to happen, but once it was there, it took off quickly!

This will be fun for all kids, especially the higher end of middle grade, 11+. Of course, younger readers can dive into this story and read along with family, friends, or at school. It can be super fun and ultimately become interactive, like a “What would your animal be?”, type of thing. If you’re into fantasy adventures, you’re in the right place!

I’d love to see more from Calico and friends in the future!

Good grammar interesting plot lines. I enjoyed the playfulness of the main characters. Children will definitely enjoy reading this book.