A heartwarming, tenderly witty debut about belief – in friendship, in yourself and, maybe, in just a little magic.
“I don’t know exactly how wishes work. But I knew a man that did.”
Phyll is having a difficult summer. Her family has moved to the seaside, but it’s a long way from perfect. Her mum is sick, she has an enemy called Hilda, and someone is stealing dogs. Then Phyll meets Mr Djinn – a wise old man who insists he’s a genie. It’s a tough claim to believe, until Phyll starts wishing for change…
Creators
Andy Jones is the author of five novels for adults, and he hopes you will read them all when you’re grown-up. This is his first novel for children ... so far. He is also the author of Unleash Your Creative Monster – a children's guide to writing. Find out more at www.andyjonesauthor.com
Reviews
Phyll is a brilliant character, dealing with a lot (as many kids are). She is relatable and interesting — someone who can be afraid and brave at the same time, which is something I know many of us feel. It’s hard when you have to deal with family troubles, friendship troubles and just life troubles in general. Sometimes we feel strong and stand up for the things we believe in, but other times it becomes too hard and we just need to sit back for a while. This is Phyll, too, and we get to cheer her on from this side of the page as she works through what’s happening in her world. Wishes Come in Threes is a splendid mix of contemporary and fantasy. It hits both genres masterfully, providing kids with a special adventure that is both real and not (or is it?).
Kids Book Review
This can be read as a straightforward narrative of growing up but there are other layers to be explored.
Reading Time
Phyllis is delightfully self-aware and grows more confident as she faces various testy situations. You empathize with her as she feels responsibility for keeping her mother’s depression at bay. You are also happy for her with the romantic friendship she develops with Clark. Mr Djinn is a wonderful wise character and mentor for Phyll. Wishes Come in Threes deals with some serious issues with great delicacy. Andy Jones balances out themes of mental health, animal cruelty, friendship and ageing in a well-paced plot with humour and hope… All in all, this is a wonderful, poignant read. I appreciated the way the author didn’t gloss over the realities in a way which is totally suitable for a younger audience.
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