Quinn moves to Texas with her family.
She observes the stars and takes pictures during her adaptation to this new place. Then she needs to solve a mystery while dealing with change, familial issues, health problems and danger.
She makes friends and together they work on the clues to solve the mystery and help Quinn’s sister and each other.
This is a lovely and inclusive mid grade book about science, art, love, family, differences, living with long-term/chronic health conditions, solidarity, friendship and many more good or inclusive topics. The characters are relatable and resourceful.
The prose and plot 4
Themes 5
Characterisation 4
Concept 4

The scientist-artist aspect appealed to me the most.

A 4-star read for mid-grade readers.

*Thank you to Greenleaf Book Group for letting me read an ARC of this book through NetGalley!*

The Cipher of the Seven Stars
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ .5 (2.5/5) or 5.28/10 overall

Characters - 5

Atmosphere - 5

Writing - 5

Plot - 6

Intrigue - 5

Logic - 6

Enjoyment - 5

Overall Thoughts:
I want to preface this by saying despite my 2.5 star rating, I don't think this was a *bad* book. There was nothing expressly dislikable about this book, it just wasn't what I was expecting at first glance. I couldn't keep my attention on this book for very long stretches of time, so it ended up taking me almost 2 months to finish it, which is unusual for me considering I generally finish a book in less than a week. That said, I was decently intrigued by the mystery of the story and it was pretty sweet and wholesome. :)

A fun story about a girl who is stressed about going to a new school but ends up making new friends. There is a great mystery aspect that she tries to solve with her friends, there is a fun theme of stars and space and, the best part, there is chronic migraine representation! I don't think I've ever seen that in a book, never mind a kids book and I loved it.

I found the cover very beautiful and intriguing, the blurb sounded promising. I love a good middle grade novel even as an adult, but I struggled to remain invested in that one. It might appeal more to the originally targeted audience! Or maybe I need to give it another go at a later time.

Super fun and engaging tale for little that packs a surprise emotional punch. Great introductory to story to topics of diversity, disability, and inclusion. A fantastic addition to any educator or parent’s bookshelf.

I enjoyed this more than I thought I would, given that I'm really not the target audience for the book. A fun light read that reminded me of childhood, but also an unexpectedly deep one and a very likeable protagonist. I especially appreciated the exploration of illness, disability and inclusivity. Will make sure my younger sister gets to read it as well.

(4.5). This was a very well written, easy to read story. It’s perfect for younger readers, with lots of twists and turns and relatable content. I appreciate the author pointing out how many young people struggle with undisclosed health problems that make them miss out on a lot of normative experiences just so they don’t have to worry about inconveniencing others. It’s especially a great read for anyone who deals with chronic migraines and wants to feel seen. I did find myself pretty annoyed at most of the adults actions/words (except for the nurse RJ, of course) but I used to feel the same when I read as a kid so I guess nothing has changed 😅 overall, I recommend this for any young reader and anyone who’s interested in a good mystery! It kept me guessing until the reveal, and I’ll admit it wasn’t who I thought! I definitely want to read the second one. — thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review 🤍