I loved seeing the old crew from Eleanor's Home for Wayward Children again and learn more about their worlds (especially Kade's) while they try to help Antsy return to the Shop Where Lost Things Go.

This was a really strong entry in the series and I'm mad at myself for taking so long to get to it. (also, not to be dramatic but Sumi and Kade mean everything to me and I would literally die for them)

A good conclusion to Antsy's and a few of the other characters' stories. The Wayward Children novellas switch between the Quest books and the ones that give deep backstories to the kids and are more commentary on girlhood. I don't think this is the strongest in the series, just because I think it's harder for this one to stand on its own (like, a lot of this was just wrapping a few of the previous books), but it was still lovely to read, deeply engaging, and with all of the characters that I've loved. Also, I deeply want McGuire to give Kade a girlfriend that isn't going to bounce to a new world I am just so invested in his character being happy.  

The ninth installment of the Wayward Children series sadly didn't impress me as much as some of its predecessors. It was still a joy to spend more time with characters I already adore and the ending was perfect, yet my critiques outweigh my overall enjoyment.

There wasn't a plot driving this particular story forward and it felt as-if the characters went on a quest just because thats what happens in odd-numbered books within the series. The writing often felt disjointed as we were following so many characters who were each trying to have their own discussions. Rather than providing an empowering message, these conversations and monologues became repetitive which muddled the points that were trying to be made. (Also, marketing a book with dinosaurs on the cover yet having barely any time in that world is super misleading.)

It's possible I wasn't in the right headspace to read this novella but I can't help feeling as-if this was simply a rushed "filler" book to remind readers of who everyone was and what worlds they visited. I still admire the whimsical settings this fantasy series offers and hope my enjoyment will pick up in future publications!

Another book, another forbidden quest. 

The first Wayward Children book I read was actually Lost in the Moment and Found where Antsy is introduced, so it was cool to have completed reading the series and then be able to read the next book to be published in the series. This book specifically focuses on generational trauma and breaking the cycle. Antsy is the main focus of this, but I see it with Kade and Eleanor too. 

These books never fail to make me feel so hopeful and so sad and so nostalgic all in one go. I think as I continue the series, each book will be followed by the end of Lundy's story. Far more characters have been able to return through their Doors than not, but the fear that the kids who want to go back won't be able to lingers. 

Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!