i was honestly shocked by how good this book was. even though i am not the targeted audience, i found the main character, vin, relatable, plot intriguing and curios and idea thrilling.

i think this is a great read for younger kids, especially for those who are into magic. it touched on variety of topics and i think most kids would find themselves in one of the 4 characters.

i would also recommend this for a family read, since parents would be able to discuss the book with kids.

My latest middle grades read is The Last Hope School for Magical Delinquents which is reminiscent of a book series my daughter loved when she was younger called Upside Down Magic. This one is not meant for adults, but it’s perfect as a read along with 8-12 year olds. The found family theme made this story lovable and the quirky characters had me yearning to reread some of my favorite fantasy books. If your child loved A Royal Conundrum by Lisa Yee, this is another series to add to your list. Thank you to Viking Books for the advanced reader copy.

This is one of those books that make me glad that kids will grow up with so many magical stories. The Last Hope School subverts so many stereotypes people still hold about kids and their "troublesome" behavior and makes readers young and old realize just how strong children truly are. I loved the idea of "nefarious" kids getting their last chance at rehabilitation for society and the characters were just so much fun! They're mischievous, yes, but they're also funny and snarky and strong and stubborn and I adored all (okay, most) of them to bits. There were also quite a few plot twists I did not see coming and that left me aching for the sequel!

This was a cute middle grade read that brought me back to the days of when I just loved a good book with magic. It had a lot of great Harry Potter vibes to it. Different types of magic, girl saving her school. I also like how it can relate back to kids who may be showing high needs at schools. And how every child deserves a chance to shine. An all around good read.

Thank you to Viking Books/Penguin Random House and NetGalley for the initial eGalley to review!

This quickly became one of my favorite middle grade magical realism books (and I have read many!).

We're set in our world, but with magic in it and therefore magic schools to teach those with magical abilities to harness their powers and use them responsibly. For Lavinia--Vin--Lucas, she's pretty much been to every single one in the United States because she keeps getting expelled from them. Why? She can't control her magic and she is prone to outbursts--outbursts that are mostly triggered by bullying and actual accidents, but she's given up on trying to explain herself and just accepts her fate every time she's sent to the administrative office to be expelled. Her parents are hardly ever in the picture because they gallivant all over the world doing charity work and also gave up on helping her get control of her magic like you would expect parents to do.

So now she is at the Last Hope School for Magical Delinquents, where she is certain she won't last a week inside. Yet, things are different here. For starters, this is a school with other "delinquents", AKA kids who were also given up on by authority figures. It's here where Vin finally finds acceptance, friendship, and self-esteem. Ava Hope, the headmistress of the school, is amazing and refuses to give up on any of her students--even those who have dropped out she will give another chance to take under her wing again. She explicitly tells Vin that Vin has been, for far too long, treated like a threat, a ticking time bomb, instead of the child and student who is trying to learn that she is. She straight up tells Vin that they, the adults, have failed her and I LOVE that. I love it so much. So many kids need to know that, making this such a wonderful book for those who have felt the same things Vin has felt--hopeless, helpless, and lesser than because she isn't on the same level as the other kids of her age. She's only twelve years old and these grown adults would rather wash their hands of her than make any attempt at working with her--until Ava Hope.

It's with this compassion and simple respect that Vin is able to understand not just her magic but herself. She finds out what type of mage she is (it's a very special one!) and under Ava's care, is able to better control it. Yet, there are outside forces at work (the Free Mages, who were once non-violent) wanting to take down Ava and her school for yielding to the magical treaty that more or less segregates magical folk from non-magical folk, and unfortunately Vin becomes the tool for their nefarious schemes. But with her new friends--one of which, to my delight, told her that she didn't force Vin to become her friend, she simply wanted her to be her friend and she knew Vin wanted that too; she just didn't know it yet (the self-love Vin learns through these friends is so needed in today's kids' worlds)--Vin is able to help save her new home and her newfound family and friends.

I will admit that the "big bad" is a bit weak, easy to spot, and could be construed to be commentary on real-life social issues, but the entirety of this story is about redemption and acceptance. We must also keep in mind that this is a middle-grade book. The way Vin and her friends take down the big bad is comical but in a Home Alone style of childhood power fantasies. The big reveal in the epilogue may feel a little "oh come on" after some thinking in front of the fridge on it, but it sets up an excellent plot for the sequel. I cannot wait to see how Nicki Pau Preto resolves this overarching conflict and I also cannot wait to see how Vin grows into her powers.

This is a story that many, many kids are needing these days. They are in a society that belittles them and regularly fails them to the point of last resorts. They need this book given by someone like Ava Hope to tell them that there is someone on their side and I am so happy to have it in our library's collection.

First impressions I really liked it. Loved the characters, the story and the setting.

Lavinia or Vin, as she likes to be called. Has been having some issues finding the right school. She has unrulily magic that seems to act up when she is being stressed or bullied. She has been expelled from so many schools that she never unpacks or gets to close to those around her. Because she knows it is only a matter of time and she will be on the move again. Her parents don't seem to care they are more interest in bugs. They are the definition of absentee parents.

After her last expulsion she finds herself at The Last Hope school for Magical Delinquents. Vin knows that she has to make this work no matter what it takes. She try's to be distant and keep to herself but 3 students and the head mistress are determined to be her friend and help her. Of course their is a reason for her unrulily magic and a mystery behind the school and a past student to solve.

Great middle grade read for both young and old alike. Lots of great messages through out. Feels like this will be a series. Highly recommend.

Fantastic book, with really full and believable characters, a plethora of exciting plot points and great villains, and lots of issue to ponder.

Nicki Pau Preto's The Last Hope School for Magical Delinquents is a delightful addition to the middle-grade fantasy genre, offering a fresh perspective on the magical boarding school narrative. Released on October 1, 2024, this novel introduces readers to Lavinia "Vin" Lucas, a 12-year-old girl whose uncontrolled magic has led to multiple expulsions from various schools. Her last chance at a magical education lies within the unconventional walls of the Last Hope School for Magical Delinquents.

Upon arrival, Vin anticipates another cycle of isolation and failure. Instead, she discovers a supportive environment where her magical mishaps are not only accepted but celebrated. The school's headmistress, Ava Hope, encourages Vin to embrace her unique abilities, fostering a sense of belonging that has long eluded her. However, as mysterious and dangerous incidents begin to plague the school, Vin finds herself unjustly blamed. Determined to clear her name and protect her newfound home, she teams up with her friends to uncover the true culprit.

Pau Preto's world-building is both whimsical and immersive, creating a setting that feels simultaneously familiar and innovative. The narrative is infused with humor and adventure, making it an engaging read for its target audience of 8 to 12-year-olds. The characters are diverse and well-developed, each contributing to the story's depth and relatability. Vin's journey of self-discovery and acceptance is particularly compelling, offering valuable lessons about embracing one's uniqueness and the importance of friendship.

Critics have noted the novel's inclusive messaging and effervescent cast, which compensate for occasional predictability in the plot. A tense epilogue hints at the possibility of a sequel, leaving readers eager for more of Vin's adventures.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

In conclusion, The Last Hope School for Magical Delinquents is a charming and empowering tale that will resonate with young readers who have ever felt out of place. Pau Preto has crafted a story that balances magical escapades with heartfelt themes, making it a standout in contemporary middle-grade fantasy literature

This was a super cute middle-grade book that I would have loved when I was younger. Even now, at thirty, this was a whimsical, quick read. The characters were spunky, the setting was familiar but fun, and the plot was easy to follow. I'm sure we'll be seeing more of this series and this author in the future!

This was such a fun, magical mystery! I enjoyed the array of abilities people had and trying to figure out what was going on with our main character. I also love a caring adult who stands up for their kids no matter what.
I hope there will be a sequel!

4.25/5. This felt nostalgic of the my favorite childhood books, but with some new events and characters. I LOVED the characters! Vin is a promising main character who is relatable and just wants to belong and have a home. I liked how the author created a little close knit friend group that have their own unique quirks and powers. Being set in the modern world but with magic known is something I want to know more about, but can definitely be flushed out more. The plot was a bit scattered, but it kept me entertained. I will definitely continue in this series!

Thank you to Netgalley and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers for the eARC in exchange for a review.

2.5 stars.

This was difficult book for me to get through as I kept putting it down as it wasn’t holding my interest and then not having a big desire to get back to it. Probably should have given up on it but I was stubborn about finishing it. One of my main issues was these characters are supposed to be around 12, they don’t read like they’re 12. They read older, usually around 16 imo. It almost feels like a YA that was written down to a MG.

Another issue I had was the world building had issues. The whole way the magical world is set up makes no sense, the way the boarding schools located all over the world work make no sense, how no one knows Vin’s parents aren’t around and she has no guardian looking after her makes no sense.

A lot of potential interesting things, a lot of potential fun scenes and this book largely chooses to ignore it, glides over it or just tells you isn’t of showing you. It made this book feel so lacking of whimsy and fun. The inspirations for this book were also very noticeable, sometimes painfully so.

Middle grade fantasy books are some of my all time favs and this book will be at the top of the list. It is so creative and full of magical twists and turns, and kindness. I was so impressed with Vin and the friends she meets at the school. The events that come about were surprising and enjoyable.

Vin arrives at Last Hope School with no hope. She doesn’t understand her magic and her journey is fantastic. Gilly, Araminta, and Theo were fantastic. I appreciated how they extended their friendship to Vin without question. Headmistress Hope was my favorite. I loved how kind, patient, and understanding she was. The school she created for these misunderstood magical kids was awesome.

This book has it all. Exciting magic, great kids, strong and brave protagonist, thrilling climax, fantastic back story of villains, and so much more.

Huge thank you to the publisher for the NetGalley approval. All views are my own.

I absolutely adored this group of misfits at the Last Hope School for Magical Delinquents! My new magical school go to for recommendations. I hope to see more from this world.

Thank you Netgalley for an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.

What an engaging and unique story that I cannot wait to continue! Because there will be more, I believe, right?
I felt connected to the FMC immediately for some reason. Very well written and fun!

I have enjoyed every Nicki Pau Preto book I have ever read. This one is no exception. Although I have seen her YA books talked about frequently, I was surprised to see this on NetGalley when I originally requested it. The main character, Vin, finds herself at the end of the line when it comes to magical boarding schools having been shipped off by parents who seem to care far more about their research than her. (I hope that Preto explores this more as the series continues.) Her magic keeps getting her expelled so if this "last chance" school doesn't work, she's completely out of luck. When she arrives, she finds a school and friends, that defy her expectations. Preto does not break new grounds with this narrative but she does not need to. This installment lays the groundwork for this magical world hidden within our mundane world while building a solid cast of characters with the introduction of a plausible villain at the end.

A cosy, magical middle grade read focused on Lavinia! Vin is running out of time as she’s gotten herself kicked out of one too many schools and so she’s landed at Last Hope. Vin, for the very first time in her life, feels like she belongs and has started to kindle friendships with others. Of course, this all is put on the line when student attacks start up at the school. This book was a wonderful blend of powerful themes for young readers like friendship, feeling like a misfit, self-acceptance and humor. I was a quiet kid growing up who often felt outcasted and I just know little me would’ve been absolutely enthralled by Vin and truly felt seen. This is such a magical read for young readers about accepting who you are and for readers who also love a little mystery.

This book is ideal for middle-grade readers who loved Upside Down Magic and are ready for a more mature story. The story begins with Lavinia (Vin), who struggles to fit in at every magical school she attends. After being expelled once again, she’s sent to the Last Hope School for Magical Delinquents. There, Vin finally finds friends and the freedom to embrace her chaotic magic. But when mysterious attacks on students begin, Vin is quickly blamed. Can she and her friends uncover the real culprit before it’s too late?
This book weaves powerful messages for young readers through themes of magic, friendship, and self-acceptance. For anyone who’s ever felt like an outcast, Preto’s powerful message is that even amongst loneliness there is still hope in friendship and embracing who you truly are.

*Thank you to Nicki Pau Preto, ​​PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers and Netgalley for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

If you're looking for a book to fill the magical school hole in your heart, definitely give The Last Hope School for Magical Delinquents a try.

Lavinia “Vin” Lucas is on her last school. If The Last Hope School for Magical Delinquents kicks her out, she doesn't know what she'll do. Vin is so used to being kicked out of schools for magical mishaps she doesn't understand, that she never even unpacks when she arrives at a new school. This school has been thought to be where the worst students with magical abilities are houses, the ones no other school can handle. When Vin learns though is that this is a school where they take special care for their students. Where the students are offered a cup of hot chocolate on a hard day and asked to explore their magical abilities. Vin quickly finds here people at this school. When an outside force comes to threaten the school, it's up to the students to protect their home.

I have no doubt in my mind that this is the first in a future middle grade series. Although made for younger readers, this series is perfect for adults seeking a little magic in their lives. If you love a certain series with a horrible author, you know the one, give this one a shot. They seem to be good companions. It's also a good book for those that enjoyed the series Wednesday on Netflix and are looking for something similar.

The "darkness" in the book isn't overwhelming and can be easily read by sensitive readers. I can't wait for Preto to write the next book in this series. I look forward to gifting this to younger readers in my life.

Thank you to Netgalley and Viking Books for Young Readers for a copy in exchange for review consideration.

If you're a Harry Potter lover, this is book would be up your alley! Nicki Pau Preto created a unique, fun magic system with the most lovable characters! Vin, our main character, is a delinquent-as the title eludes to-and has gotten kicked out of so many schools she finally ends up at Last Hope School. She is challenged along the way, not only to hone her exceptional powers, but to trust others and make friends. The end will have you on your toes, screaming for more!