For a child navigating family expectations while trying to discover their own unique talents and sense of belonging. This magical tale celebrates creativity and courage.
A parent might reach for this book when their child feels overshadowed by a sibling or peer, or is struggling to find their own unique path amidst family expectations. This enchanting story follows Jetta, a gifted apprentice to a master toymaker. When a magical curse threatens her master and their town, Jetta must use her unique creative talents to build a clockwork hero and venture into a forbidden forest. Accompanied by the toymaker's son, she discovers that her own ingenuity is the most powerful magic of all. For ages 8 to 12, this book beautifully explores themes of self-confidence, perseverance, and the courage to forge your own identity, making it a perfect choice for young readers who love art, magic, and adventure.
The story features a parental figure falling gravely ill due to a magical curse. The approach is entirely metaphorical, not a realistic depiction of illness. The resolution is hopeful and complete, with the character making a full recovery. It also deals with themes of parental pressure and feeling like an outsider in a family unit.
Ideal Reader
This is for a creative 9 to 11 year old who loves making things, whether with LEGOs, art supplies, or code. It's particularly resonant for a child who feels overshadowed by a sibling or friend's talents, or who is navigating the pressure to follow in a family member's footsteps.
Parent Prep
No specific preparation is needed; the book can be read cold. The fantasy setting keeps the stakes from feeling too frightening. A parent could be prepared to discuss the dynamic between Jetta and Stefan, and how their initial rivalry turns into a partnership. A parent notices their child downplaying their own skills or saying things like, "I'll never be as good as my brother at that," or "That's not what I'm supposed to be good at."
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-9) will be captivated by the magical quest, the clockwork creatures, and the fairy tale retelling of The Nutcracker. An older reader (10-12) will more deeply appreciate the nuances of Jetta's internal struggle for identity, the themes of found family, and the clever way the story celebrates engineering and ingenuity as a form of magic.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many fantasies where power is an innate, mystical gift, this story champions creativity, engineering, and hard work as the true magic. The protagonist solves problems by building things. It's a unique, steampunk-infused take on a classic ballet, shifting the focus from the child receiving the toy to the brilliant young woman who creates it.
Read plot summary
Jetta, a talented but unappreciated apprentice, works for Master Treger, a famous toymaker who favors his own son, Stefan. When a curse from the magical Mouse Queen incapacitates Master Treger and threatens the town's beloved Christmas traditions, Jetta and a reluctant Stefan must journey into the forbidden Black Forest. Using Jetta's brilliant engineering skills, they build clockwork allies and overcome magical challenges to confront the Mouse Queen and break the curse, ultimately proving Jetta's worth and redefining the meaning of family legacy.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Jetta is a talented toymaker, but Stefan is expected to take over his father's shop. Why do you think Master Treger has this expectation? Have you ever felt like someone expected you to be good at something you weren't interested in?
2
Throughout their journey, Jetta and Stefan have to use their different skills to solve problems. Can you think of a specific time when Stefan's knowledge and Jetta's creativity worked together to save them?
3
Jetta builds clockwork allies like the Nutcracker and other animals. If you could build a magical toy to be your companion on an adventure, what would it be and what special things would it do?
4
At the end of the story, Master Treger recognizes Jetta's unique gift. How do you think this changes the future for both Jetta and Stefan in the toy shop?
