A magical middle grade story. Sisters Bee, Hattie, and Plum are excited to be spending part of the summer at their grandfather's house, which is right on the beach. In fact, his property includes three small islands, the Fairy islands. How fun. Unfortunately there's a secondary reason for this trip: to check in on grandfather, who has been suffering from memory lapses recently. This summer will certainly be an experience. The Fairy Islands just might have some magic after all.

This is a lovely little story about family, with a tinge of magic. Absolutely loved the family dynamics here. The sisters feel like sisters, and realistic for their ages. Though their parents have divorced, it's clearly amicable, and the kids get to spend time with both their father and mother. Grandfather's Alzheimer's is introduced gently, and is a nice inclusion for a middle grade story like this. Kids this age may be experiencing similar situations with their own grandparents. The magical elements were slight, more magical realism than pure fantasy, but very enjoyable. The setting is well realized, and I loved following the Snolly sisters on this little adventure. Would recommend.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is the best sister story I've ever read; I loved the bond the Snolly sisters share. Their loyalty and love for each other always triumph over the sibling squabbles. I enjoyed the multigenerational relationship and dealing with potential dementia.

The island made a fun setting and the ocean and sea creatures felt so real. I enjoyed the mystery and history this family had on the island. The danger level during the treasure hunt kept me reading at the edge of my seat.

This novel had me hooked right from the start and the magical realism always felt as if it was actually possible. I can't wait to read more books by this author.

The Snolly family has piled into their car to visit their Granddaddy on the Pacific coast of Canada for three weeks this summer. While there will of course be relaxing moments of vacation, the Snollys are also there to observe their Granddaddy and determine if he is still able to safely care for himself. Granddaddy lives in the small town of Misty Cove, where everyone knows everyone else and Granddaddy’s family has resided for generations. But Misty Cove is more than just a cute coastal village; it also contains mystery and intrigue, both of which lead the Snolly sisters on a fantastic adventure to discover the truth of the past and a way to help ensure a positive future for their beloved grandfather.

This lovely story is a fast-paced, heartfelt tale that is ideally suited to middle grade readers. The Snolly family has four children, ranging in age from baby to early adolescent, and each character has a unique personality and interests that help contribute to the overall narrative. Though the story is presented in the third person, Bee—the ten-year-old second child—takes the primary focus. She is driven by science and is brave and daring, and she is determined to improve her grandfather’s life no matter what it takes. Bee’s tenacity and heart are endearing throughout the story, and readers will delight in discovering each new puzzle piece alongside her.

Ample white space, frequent dialogue, and a driving plot keep younger middle grade readers connected to the story while they are immersed within it. Rich descriptions bring the town of Misty Cove to life, and the details found within the accessible text paint a vivid picture of the Snollys and their experiences. Readers who enjoy stories that encompass fairy tales, family history, occasional scary moments, and general folklore will appreciate the delivery of this book and its overall trajectory, especially as otherwise mundane circumstances take on a different hue. Entertaining and filled with thoughtful moments, this story is at once a charming mystery/adventure and a love letter to families whose loved ones are struggling with dementia. This is a well-crafted addition to library collections for middle grade readers.