Each of these books follows a child with the disability, Asperger’s Syndrome. The theme is similar which some readers will find comfortingly familiar, particularly those who enjoy the security of knowing what to expect as they approach the next book in the series. Each child main character has an extra challenge. Billy is extremely shy and feels awkward, Charlie suffers from fainting spells and Susie has a heart condition to contend with. The children soon find out that an item of their clothing starts to sparkle in a magical way and, when this happens, they are transported to a mysterious world. Whilst there, they are able to see themselves in a new and positive light and all the potential they hold despite their disability. This experience transforms them. A child with autism or Asperger’s Syndrome will recognise some of the difficulties and challenges the characters portray. The fact that they overcome some of their problems with the inspiration they experience is uplifting and shows that a disability does not define a person. Equally, Julie Day shows us in the narrative that every person possesses talent that can be nurtured as well as appreciated and applauded by others. The writing keeps to a simple style which is easily understood and is presented in a good strong clear font. The book covers are very good. They are enticing, bright and cheerful with the characters, Susie, Charlie and Billy defined as happy and friendly on each cover.
There is a problem, unfortunately in each book, with the layout. There are very big gaps in the print & large unnecessary areas of white space which give the impression that the end of a chapter has been reached when this is not the case. This detracts from the flow of the stories and does not present the work in the best light for ease of reading. It is a distraction. The plot in each book follows a similar pattern. This may not suit all children but, as has been said, it will be a safe read for others. The writer, Julie Day, has specifically aimed the stories at those with Asperger’s Syndrome, their families and friends. This is made clear on the back cover of the book. Julie has a diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome herself so she is well placed to be an expert on what a child with this condition will be comfortable with and how the uplifting elements in the stories will hopefully support them and also encourage them to try new and challenging things. Some children, however, may find the predictability of the stories not quite to their taste and may be looking for more action and conflict between characters. That said, the sibling of each main character does push their brother or sister to find hidden strengths, so this does present a mild conflict. The disabilities themselves, naturally, are what the characters are challenged by an internal tussle in each case. The typesetting errors are a problem and have brought the star rating
to 3.5 stars.
