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The Wish in the Bottle

(1997, Fiction - Fantasy, Written by Morna MacLeod, Illustrated by Thea Kliros)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 8, age appropriate for kids over 10; suggested age 10.

  • Is it any good?

    2.0

  • Common Sense says

    Folkloric tale founders under weight of nostalgia.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 10 and Up

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Mark is frequently portrayed as physically tougher, emotionally stronger, and smarter than his sisters. Lani, Mark, and Laurie go out at night without their parents' permission.

  • Violence:

    The siblings are threatened by a bear. They are surrounded by brush fires.

  • Sex:

    Not an issue.

  • Language:

    Not an issue.

  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The Wish in the Bottle

Parents need to know that despite good use of folklore motifs, the story occasionally founders. Bland illustrations and writing that's heavy on the nostalgia may turn off some, though others will find the fairies enchanting.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the conventions and common elements of fantasy and folklore. How can a story that uses a familiar premise, such as the granting of wishes, remain fresh and interesting to readers? Families can also talk about what they would wish for and why.
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