"The Bigfoot Queen" by Jennifer Weiner is a delightful and heartwarming adventure that explores the challenges faced by a group of unique characters in the sacred world of the Yare, creatures who happen to be Bigfoots. With a blend of humor, friendship, and a touch of fantasy, Weiner crafts a narrative that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.

The central characters – Alice Mayfair, Millie Maximus, Jessica Jarvis, and Jeremy Bigelow – face their most significant challenge yet as the secrecy of their world is threatened by a determined adversary with a personal vendetta against the Yare. The stakes are high, with the fate of the tribe and their right to live peacefully hanging in the balance. As the characters grapple with impossible decisions, friendships are tested, secrets are laid bare, and an extraordinary amount of courage is required.

Jennifer Weiner excels in creating a world that is both magical and relatable. The camaraderie among the characters is endearing, and their personalities shine through with authenticity. The dynamics of the group, including both friendships and frenemies, add depth to the story and make the characters more relatable to readers.

The narrative explores themes of acceptance, strength, and forgiveness, as the characters are forced to work together in ways they never imagined. The challenges they face are not only external but also internal, as they confront betrayals that test the limits of forgiveness. This adds an emotional layer to the story, making it more than just a fantasy adventure.

The pacing of the novel is well-managed, and Weiner keeps the reader invested in the characters' journey by introducing twists and turns that add suspense and intrigue. The writing style is engaging, with a good balance of humor and heart, making it suitable for a wide range of readers.

While the fantasy element is prominent, the underlying themes of friendship and forgiveness make "The Bigfoot Queen" a universally appealing read. Some readers may find the fantastical elements a departure from Weiner's more realistic works, but the charm and wit that characterize her writing remain intact.

In conclusion, "The Bigfoot Queen" is a four-star read that captivates with its blend of fantasy, friendship, and heartfelt moments. Jennifer Weiner's exploration of forgiveness and courage in the face of betrayal adds depth to the story, making it a memorable and enjoyable experience for readers of all ages.

I read book one, once upon a time, and missed book two, somewhere along the way, but it didn't hold me back from enjoying this one anymore than the leather straps on the chair that... well, it didn't hold me back. 😉 (that's a secret reveal for you to discover in the book!)

It has been quite the journey with these characters, especially our four youngsters, and while it was a grand ending to a wonderful series, you can't help but tear up as you say goodbye. Millie has grown so much despite remaining small in stature. She's followed her dream, ventured out into the no-fur world, made friends, and discovered her inner strength. Speaking of strength, can I just say how proud I am of Alice? I mean, Millie as well, but Alice is thrown so many loops this time around, and still finds it in herself to protect those she loves when the stakes are highest, while enabling a potential rescue by embracing her inner strength! Jessica I had a harder time accepting with open arms, but I kept an open mind and watched her challenges shape her true form. Then when she teamed up with Nana? I was sold hook, line, and sinker. I'd amazing how the truth CAN set us free!
Last but not least, Jeremy finally gets his moment, while also making lifelong friends. To say he made up for the disappointment he experienced in the first installment would be the understatement of the century.

All in all, it's a story of acceptance, understanding, learning to be yourself and learning to share yourself with the world. It's a tale that reminds us that love is a powerful thing, for better or worse, and kindness can go a long way in making a lasting impression.

I had not read the previous two books, but was still able to follow the story. I enjoyed it, and appreciated Jennifer Weiner’s middle grade book. Overall, I really enjoyed it and would recommend it. Although, for middle grade readers, I would recommend reading the whole series to understand the characters and plot better.

I was so captivated by the story and how everyone came together against the villain who wanted to hurt the Yares to obtain immortality.
It is a great story and I enjoyed all the strong girls and women involved.
It is very empowering, especially for young women trying to figure out how they fit in the world.
Enjoy!

I adore Jennifer Weiner’s books, she is a very talented author. It’s hard saying good bye to a series but this one was wrapped up nicely. Still…

In book three, Alice and her friends face their enemy and work together to gain acceptance. Highlighted with bravery, divulged secrets and friendships stand the test of time. The journey with these kids has been quite the ride. I love them dearly. What’s not to love about endurance and understanding? Sprinkled with the self-confidence of accepting yourself, this is a must read series for all middle graders as they face challenges in their own lives and with others. Kindness is queen (or king) and is a powerful force in growing up. Love and forgiveness prevail. In my opinion, this is a must read and the world would be a better place with the understanding revealed in these pages.

I like the emphasis on the power of unity and acceptance in this book. Alice and her friends, along with their frenemies, are forced to set aside their differences and work together. Their journey necessitates them to become stronger, smarter, and more open-minded than ever before. It also explores whether certain betrayals can ever truly be forgiven and the impact such decisions have on individuals and relationships. The characters, including both allies and adversaries, are richly developed, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. It is a thrilling adventure and thought-provoking, a must-read!

I requested this solely because it’s Jennifer Weiner and who doesn’t love her books? I didn’t even know she wrote YA so this was a fun little surprise for me. I didn’t read the first 2 books in the series and I think I would have benefited from it, but I was still able to read this one just fine without having done so.
When the fate of the Bigfoot , or Yare, as they like to call themselves, is at stake from the No Furs, Alice and her friends have to work together to protect their own from a very determined enemy so that they can gain acceptance once and for all. Friendships are tested, secrets are revealed and the kids have to be braver than they ever thought possible.
Thanks to Aladdin Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.

Jennifer Wiener does it again. Why is such a delight!? I loved this. I plan to buy a copy for my twins. I can't wait for the next book.

Rounding up to 4. When The Bigfoot Queen became available on NetGalley, I definitely wanted to read it ... because ... who wouldn't want to read a Jennifer Weiner book. The cover makes it obvious that it is a children's/YA book. What I didn't realize is that The Bigfoot Queen is #3 in the series. I do feel like I hadn't quite connected with some of the characters and I'm guessing that is because I hadn't read books #1 or #2.

The primary concept encompassing The Bigfoot Queen is quite fascinating. Jennifer Weiner is a very creative author.

Many thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read the advance read copy of The Bigfoot Queen in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Jennifer Weiner the author and Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing. Publication date is Oct 24, 2023.