Common Sense Media Review
By Sage Moreaux
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Cute middle-grade romance with magic, crushes, and kissing.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Emma and her two best friends are sure their lives will change for the better when they find the magical wishing spot her Nana told her about. But then, Emma's wishes are accidentally stolen by Jackson, the annoying boy next door. Emma finds herself desperate to get them back before the last of the wishes come true—for Jackson—and her chance at a happier life is lost for good. Luckily, Jackson is as interested in reversing the mix-up as she is. As they search for a solution, Emma's plan threatens to ruin her friendships. Can she find a way to set everything right, or will her life be forever changed?
Is It Any Good?
Cute, with a nice smattering of magical realism sprinkled in, this book feels like a YA romance aged-down to appeal to a younger crowd. Lynn Painter is known for her trademark humor and crush-focused, pop culture reference-filled stories, and The Wish Switch checks all those boxes. The romance, while sweet, feels more suited for slightly older characters, as does some of the dialogue and interactions. There's a nice relationship between Emma and her mom, as well as a fun aunt, which add to the story, though sibling meanness and a focus on physical looks take away from the charm. Overall, this book makes for a light summer read for kids interested in romance, but parents are encouraged to help readers think critically about what is really important in life.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about dishonesty in The Wish Switch. Emma chooses to lie to her friends to cover up some of the decisions she makes. How does this affect her friendships? Do you think honesty is always the best policy?
What makes a good wish? What would you wish for if you had a magic wishing well? Would you wish for things for yourself, or for others?
Why do you think Jackson agreed to help Emma? Do you think she could have done it on her own, or was teamwork truly necessary?
What do you think about the amount of crush talk and romance in this book? Do the kids talk and act like seventh graders?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Friendship
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Friendship , School ( Middle School )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : May 13, 2025
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 320
- Available on : Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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