I recently read Tuesdays at the Castle and Wednesdays in the Tower by Jessica Day George, and, man, why didn’t I find these earlier?! A sentient castle that chooses its kings, thrilling political intrigue, and four resourceful and witty siblings reminiscent of the Pevensie kids—if you’re looking for a great MG fantasy, this is your stop.
Here’s the Goodreads blurb for Tuesdays at the Castle:
Tuesdays at Castle Glower are Princess Celie’s favorite days. That’s because on Tuesdays the castle adds a new room, a turret, or sometimes even an entire wing. No one ever knows what the castle will do next, and no one-other than Celie, that is-takes the time to map out the new additions. But when King and Queen Glower are ambushed and their fate is unknown, it’s up to Celie, with her secret knowledge of the castle’s never-ending twists and turns, to protect their home and save their kingdom.
The best thing about these books is the limitations that are set and stuck to. The castle can’t talk; it can only make things appear and disappear, making its will known in very roundabout ways. There are wizards, but magic is more of a science than, well, magic. There’s no magical solution to solve everybody’s problems. The kids are brave and smart and resourceful, but they’re also kids. There are things that scare them, and they have to figure out how to deal with fear instead of simply not being afraid, which I think happens way too often in MG fantasy.
I love all the characters, but I think Pogue is my favorite. He’s just not what you expect when you first meet him, and I’m excited to see what happens with him.
The only thing I can complain about is that the third book isn’t out! I was so sad when I hit the end of Wednesdays in the Tower and realized I would have to wait to find out what happens next!
BumblesBooks 