This was a great read. I actually enjoyed the story and felt it had a good flow. I look forward to getting for my own classroom.

Olivia Cole and the Legend of the Silver Seed was unfortunately a dnf for me. While the plot sounded good (and might pick up eventually) I did not like the beginning enough to continue reading. The start was slow in getting to the main storyline. I think the author could have started further in and had flashbacks to what happens in the first chapter. In my opinion that would have made for a more captivating read. I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in trade for my honest opinion. My thoughts are my own.

"Olivia Cole and the Legend of the Silver Seed" by Ricky Melamed is a tale that weaves together themes of family, friendship, and adventure, set against the backdrop of a mysterious and enchanting world. The story follows Olivia Cole and her friends, Eddy and Penny, as they embark on a quest to find her missing brother, Tyler. Their journey begins on Olivia's family farm but quickly spirals into the fantastical when they discover strange metallic silver flowers and are transported to the world of Sumera. The plot thickens with the inclusion of Amanda, Olivia's misunderstood neighbor, who joins the search despite her personal heartache and complex history with Tyler. The narrative explores the dynamics between the characters, especially the tension and eventual cooperation between Olivia and Amanda, adding emotional depth to their adventure.

While the book offers a captivating premise and vivid world-building, it occasionally stumbles in pacing and character development. The early sections feel rushed, with the transition from the real world to Sumera happening too abruptly. Additionally, some characters, particularly Eddy and Penny, could benefit from more fleshed-out backstories and motivations. However, the imaginative settings—ranging from a glittering underground city to barren ice lands—provide a rich tapestry for the unfolding drama. The central mystery of the Silver Seed and the looming threat of Queen Sasha add a layer of intrigue that keeps the reader engaged. Overall, "Olivia Cole and the Legend of the Silver Seed" is a solid middle-grade fantasy that, while not without its flaws, delivers an enjoyable and heartfelt adventure.

✨ Publication date: July 1, 2024✨

Olivia Cole and the legend of the Silver Seed is an action/adventure middle grade book by debut author Ricky Melamed.

This book takes place two years after Olivia’s older brother disappears. Olivia returns to her family farm with two friends Penny and Eddy. It’s the first time since her brother’s disappearance she has returned.

When Olivia and her friends explore the farm they find unusual flowers and are thrown into a magical world of adventure. Olivia realizes that this is likely what happened to her brother Tyler and they head off to look for him.

This is a book full of action, adventure and quirky characters. There are many characters which sometimes makes it difficult to keep track of but ultimately is a fun read and great debut for the middle grade audience. This is a 4 star read for me.

Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

#NetGalley #rickymelamed #oliviacoleandthelegendofthesilverseed

A fun middle grade portal fantasy for kids of all ages with strong themes of friendships and siblings bond. I think kids will love it more than I did!!

When I first started reading this, I assumed I'd have it done by next week. However, two days later, I just put it down. It's not often I'll find a new author with such a seasoned and well-written piece of work. Each character is distinguishable from the others, either by the way they speak, their manurisms, etc. There are even new languages! This is a classic portal fantasy, well written, enjoyable to read, and loads of fun. After doing some research via Facebook, I found out that this story hasn't been picked up by a publisher yet, which shocked me! 100% it needs to be in libraries everywhere. I recommend this highly.

Hello,

I was lucky enough to find this title, here is my review:

This story follows a group of four children who, through a portal, are taken into a fantasy world called Sumera. While there, they meet the locals and are instantly swept up in an adventure. This is a real good vs. evil tale with a really surprising ending that had me in tears. Literally.

I've already recommended this to my friends, who, I'm sure, will be posting reviews soon!

I found this story via a Facebook post, and boy, oh boy, am I glad that I did.

It was such a sweet story :)

Even though Amanda was the bully, she was my favorite character. She has gone through so much, and her character arc is a lot of fun. I was also quite fond of Eddy. He is the classic kid with the journal and the witty sense of humor.

Well worth the read. Recommend highly.

Terrific read. If you enjoy portal fantasies, then this is for you. Even as an adult, I found it very enjoyable.

Even though this story is geared towards children/teenagers, it was jam packed with life lessons. Dealing with loss, trust between friends, putting oneself out there to help someone else, etc. The story follows 2 POV's: Olivia and Amanda. Both characters intertwine beautifully throughout the story. I'm not sure if there will be a book 2 yet, but I most certainly hope so. I loved this sotry and look forward to seeing more books written by Ricky Melamed.

I found this book under the section titled "Most Requested," and I know why now. This was listed as a fantasy, but there is no shortage of mystery woven in. What is the Silver Seed? Wouldn't you like to know? There were twists and turns at every corner. I read this book to my 10-year-old son. There aren't many things that will get him away from the TV, but this sure did! He actually asked me to read more. This was a real hit. I would definitely recommend this book.

What a wonderful story. I found myself unable to put this book down. The adventure Olivia and her friends go on through Sumera is delightful. There were many moments where I was at the edge of my seat. The creatures they find in Sumera and the wonderful people who live there are nothing short of amazing. This is the perfect fantasy story for any tween.