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Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Georgie Karras and the Niddle of Nern by Kate Mathos introduces us to a world where magic and mourning intertwine. In this middle-grade fantasy, a young girl struggling with grief finds herself drawn into the magical Kingdom of Nern, a vibrant realm threatened by encroaching darkness. As Georgie navigates this new world, she must confront not only her sorrow but also uncover long-buried family secrets while fighting against a sinister force that threatens to consume everything. The story masterfully balances whimsy with weightier themes, creating a narrative that appeals to both children and adults. This well-crafted fantasy world feels fresh and suitably magical but has a serious undercurrent that is sophisticated for a middle-grade novel. The Kingdom of Nern springs to life through a unique magical system and its colorful inhabitants with bold dialogue that immediately characterizes them and explains their world well to Georgie and readers.
Each character feels distinct and necessary to the story, while Georgie's emotional journey provides an anchor that keeps the fantasy elements grounded in relatable experiences for the intended reading audience. Kate Mathos shows particular talent when writing scenes that blend adventure with character development, allowing Georgie's growth to feel earned rather than contrived as she overcomes different challenges in the plot. The way the subject of grief is handled through the lens of fantasy gives young readers a safe space to explore difficult emotions, while the world-building provides endless opportunities for imagination and wonder to balance those very serious moments. The resolution brings together the story threads in a way that is sure to satisfy readers while leaving room for them to imagine what might come next and be hooked and awaiting the next volume, just as I am. Overall, I enthusiastically recommend Georgie Karras and the Niddle of Nern to readers who appreciate fantasy stories with emotional depth.
