Even though the concept was unique in some way this had me as bored as Caraval, and I passionately hated Caravan. Maybe if you liked Caravan, you'll like this book.

I really liked the Willy Wonka inspired book story. The mix of fun and sorrow was blended well to make the story work. I especially liked the relationship between teacher and student and how she really wanted to be the little boy's mom and would do anything to make it happen.
There were some swear words throughout and parts I didn't enjoy as much. But overall I liked the story.

Thank you to #NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

I enjoyed this book. However, it was written too much like a Childs book. I couldn't decide the authors target market. I felt like I was reading a magic tree house book to my kids.
I received this galley from NetGalley

The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer was a fun, whimsical type book yet it also tugged on my heart too (Christopher!) I was thoroughly immersed into this story! And I love the cover too.

What an awesome book! I loved the contest format, and the lonely, orphaned Christopher tugged at my heart. Definitely a must read for book lovers.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley, I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer is a magical, thought-provoking tale that seamlessly blends whimsy with deep emotional insight. Set in a world where wishes come to life, the story explores the cost of fulfilling one's deepest desires through richly drawn characters and a captivating narrative.Shaffer's debut is a memorable journey into the heart of human longing and self-discovery.

WOW WOW WOW I loved this book!! Thank you NetGalley for the ARC but so mad at myself for taking so long to read it!! I can’t believe this is Meg’s first book! I loved the storyline, and while at times it seemed a little YA for me, she would throw in some adult elements that would bring the story back to my level. I absolutely fell in love with Lucy and Christopher and felt myself rooting for them the whole time. Definitely a very heartwarming story with a little twist at the end that I enjoyed! Would definitely recommend this book and look forward to reading her other books!

A wonderful story that awakens the imagination and warms the heart. Adventure with Lucy through a fantastical puzzle and the fight for familial love.

I loved it. This was a book that I began with the idea of reading something different, so I had no preconceived idea of whether I'd like it or not. The premise of a book series that captured the hearts and brains of children caught my attention right from the start. The main character, Lucy, was such a likeable young woman and I was anxious to get to know her better! And who cannot like a teacher's aide who loves working with children and has her heart and soul set on adopting a little boy, Christopher, to give him a home and endless love. Enter the plot of "the game" on Clock Island where riddles have to be solved to move forward in the game and in life. We are introduced to Clock Island in the Prologue which sets the tone for what's to come. A contest is being held where the prize can change lives - and four adults who had visited Clock Island as children, are invited back to play the game. Along the way we learn much more about the author of the books, Jack Masterson, who designs the life-altering contest, as well as the artist for all the book artwork, Hugo. There are many stories that complete the ultimate story, along with tests and riddles designed to make the players look well within themselves for the answers. And at the heart of it all is love.... of the game, of life, and of each other. Definitely can recommend this book that brought smiles to my face and the need to keep reading to get to the outcome!! Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine Books for the opportunity to read and review this advance reader copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #NetGalley #TheWishingGame

The Wishing Game is a sweet story, almost a modern version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory written for an adult audience.

The novel follows Lucy, a woman whose life has been marked by hardship and loss. She finds solace in the magical world of "The Wishing Game," a mysterious and magical game that grants wishes to those who truly believe. The premise is charming, and the plot is filled with moments of wonder and discovery. While some plot points may be predictable, the story maintains a sense of magic and optimism throughout. The novel beautifully explores the themes of hope, belief, and the transformative power of wishes. It reminds readers that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of light and the possibility of a better future.

Jack Masterson, a reclusive children’s author known for his *Clock Island* series, resurfaces after years of silence with a new book and a life-changing competition. Lucy Hart, a teacher’s assistant who dreams of adopting the orphaned boy she tutors, sees the contest as her chance to make both their wishes come true. Traveling to Clock Island to solve riddles and play Jack’s intricate games, Lucy learns that bravery is key to turning dreams into reality.

This heartwarming story blends nostalgia with a whimsical, YA-like tone, even though it features adult characters. Thank you to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for the ARC—I’m thrilled to add this beautifully designed hardcover to my collection!

Lucy Hart knows all too well what it’s like to grow up without loving parents. In a childhood marked by neglect and loneliness, Lucy found solace in books, especially the Clock Island series by reclusive author Jack Masterson. Now a twenty-six-year-old teacher's aide, she shares her love of reading with her young students, particularly seven-year-old Christopher Lamb, who tragically lost his parents and became an orphan. Lucy dreams of adopting Christopher, but she lacks the funds and stability to make it happen.

Jack Masterson, the mega-bestselling author of the Clock Island series, quit writing under mysterious circumstances and for the past six years has been drinking himself into an early grave. Suddenly, he resurfaces with a brand-new book and a one-of-a-kind competition.

Lucy receives an invitation to take part and jumps at the chance. Alongside three other contestants—all former runaways who sought refuge on Jack’s Island as children—Lucy must solve puzzles inspired by Jack’s books. The winner will receive the only copy of his new manuscript to do with whatever they want.

As the contest progresses, Lucy faces her deepest fears and insecurities. Meanwhile, Jack, burdened by his own sorrows, plots the ultimate twist ending that could transform all their lives.

The Wishing Game celebrates friendship and the enchanting world of storytelling. The book is charming, magical, whimsical, and entertaining. Despite some underdeveloped characters and a Willy Wonka-esque premise, it is an impressive debut and a delightful read.
I highly recommend it and give it 4 stars.

Thanks to the publisher for a review copy of this book. The opinions are my own.

Though I was a bit skeptical about the whole 'magical' premise, I was drawn in to this beautiful story from the beginning. I had no preconceptions whatsoever and delighted in the journey. It tweaked my heart in so many ways. The relationship Lucy has with the orphaned young boy who she wants to create a home for really got to me.

The entire Clock Island mystery with its history for Lucy and other contestants in a competition was full of surprises that delighted and held me in thrall. I was totally invested in the characters and outcome. I cried and I laughed. Such wonderful imagination. I loved the themes of renewal, hope and forgiveness. With perseverance, wishes do come true.

Take yourself on the journey to Clock Island with Lucy and the mystery that unfolds. You won't regret it. One of my 5-star reads for 2024. Many thanks to NetGalley, Random House, and the author for allowing me to read an advanced e-copy of this marvelous book.

I loved this book. The whimsy. all the feels, it was exactly what I needed to remind me why I love reading. This story is a testament to the power of reading as children and how something as simple a childhood story can live with us forever.

The Wishing Game is a heartwarming and whimsical novel that combines elements of fantasy and self-discovery. It follows the journey of Lucy, a young woman who finds herself caught in the magic of an old storybook game. As she navigates her way through the game’s challenges, she learns about the importance of dreams, hope, and the power of human connections. Meg Shaffer crafts a tale that is both enchanting and thought-provoking, with a perfect balance of lighthearted moments and deeper emotional exploration. Fans of magical realism and feel-good stories will find this book delightful.

Growing up, Lucy found connection and adventure in the Clock Island series of books. Now, a teacher’s aide, she has a student who seems as lost as she felt growing up. She introduces him to the same books and he finds them as enjoyable as she did. Soon after, a contest related to the series is announced and the prize could dramatically alter both of their lives if only Lucy is brave enough to enter. Can revisiting her beloved series really shape her future or will looking at the author and series through adult eyes only crack the facade of perfection she had as a child? Thanks to Net Galley and Ballantine Books for the ARC. This is my honest review.

I just kind of loved everything about this book. It was like a grown-up version of Willy Wonka, for book lovers, minus Oompa Loompas. Definitely some suspension of disbelief (the teacher/fostering situation was especially head-scratching), but I was happy to go along for the ride. Feel good fun that I've definitely recommended to several reader friends! Thanks to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for the ARC.

I love a good found family story, and The Wishing Game did not disappoint. While it does not shy away from hard social topics, the ride is worth it, and wraps up with a feel good ending. A lovely book to cozy up with.

Lucy Hart works so hard as a classroom paraeducator so she can save enough money to adopt Christopher, but she never seems to be able to get ahead. Her heart is breaking as she realizes that she just doesn't have the resources to be the family he needs...but then she gets an extremely exclusive invitation from her childhood favorite author. Lucy, along with three others, has been invited to the home of the elusive Jack Masterson, who is hosting a contest for the rights to his final Clock Island book. Though full of mystery and tension, this book is entirely cozy. It feels like getting a hug from a dear friend.

This book is a beautiful tribute to stories and how they can change readers' lives.

Many thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine Books for the advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.