Book Review: The Magic Gems: Lily Halfmoon by Xavier Bonet

The Magic Gems: Lily Halfmoon #1

by

Xavier Bonet

translated by  Marie Trinchant

Publisher: Allen & Unwin

Imprint: A&U Children

Publication date: 29th August 2023

Series: Lily Halfmoon #1

Genre: Middle Grade Graphic Novel

Pages: 80

RRP: $16.99 (paperback)

Source: Courtesy of the publisher

 

Review: The Magic Gems: Lily Halfmoon #1

Lily Halfmoon is a new graphic novel series by illustrator Xavier Bonet flawlessly translated by Marie Trinchant.

 

The Magic Gems is a fun story about witches, potions, gems and finding your true vocation. 

Lily is nervous about starting a new school, she is always clumsy and having accidents. When she makes friends with Gigi and Mai she learns that her accidents are her magic revealing itself. She's a witch, just like them!

Lily must learn about special magical gems, guardian spirits, potions and plants, and uncover her special power all whilst keeping her new identity secret.

The Magic Gems is an easy to read graphic novel for younger middle grade readers. It includes lots of information on gems, the phases of the moon, magic potions and a slime recipe. The cliff hanger ending will have readers eager for the next book.

My rating 4 / 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Recommended age: 7+ years

About the author

Xavier Bonet is a self-taught illustrator and comic book artist. He lives in Barcelona with his two children. He started in a little animation studio as a background artist, and eventually embarked on a career as a professional illustrator. He has illustrated many children's books including Omnia by Laura Gallego, the volumes of Michael Dahl's Really Scary Stories, The Keepers Trilogy by Lian Tanner and Jabberwocky and Other Poems by Lewis Carroll.