This was a surprising book, both funny and insightful, the sort of book that makes a person think and laugh and think and laugh some more. There aren't many books that can bring together Nazis and child magicians and POW camps still keep the experience light without making the whole thing seem insincere. Still, this book manages to accomplish the unlikely task, and leave this reader feeling satisfied. I think the greatest strength that the author exhibits is his ability to make a tense scene humorous with a quick-witted turn of phrase or an unexpected perspective on the situation.

I genuinely enjoyed this book, and despite the touchier subject matter, it delivers the story in a middle-grade friendly way that would make for great discussion. As an added bonus, there are magic tricks explained at the conclusion of many of the chapters which would make for great fun in a large group reading situation. If anything, it would this book unexpectedly one that would lend itself quite well to STEM thinking. Students could design a magic show and either try the tricks recommended within or try making some of their own illusions.

I think the simplest way to sum up what makes this books so good is to say that the author has a strong grasp of what would appeal to his audience. He knows how to take a piece of the plot and bring it right up to the audience that it is intended for in a clear, engaging way. For a first book, this is genuinely impressive.