Book Review: The Spiderwick Chronicles: The Seeing Stone
The second book in the Spiderwick Chronicles series. A young reader’s/middle-grade novel revolved around three siblings discovering a magical world that surrounds them. This is the second of an eight book series following the adventures of the Grace siblings and their new lives as they explore and uncover the secrets that are right in front of them.
As soon as I finished the first of the series, The Field Guide, I went into my office and pulled the second book off the shelf. Now that I have finished the second book, I am pretty bummed I don’t have the third book ready at my disposal. If you read my review on the first book and how much I loved it, this book is even better. Between the growing and expansive world, the fantastic characters the Grace siblings meet, and the excitement the story leads to. This further confirms my thoughts that the series is a must for young readers, middle grade, and people of all ages.
Plot
The plot was the perfect continuation of the first book. The stakes were raised just enough to give more excitement and intrigue, while not being overpowered. This allowed a natural progression for the Grace siblings to face their challenges while not feeling unrealistic for their characters.
One of the top reasons I loved this book was how it also showed great teamwork, love, and compassion between the characters throughout the book. Allowing them to grow with the story as well as becoming characters I care about.
Fast-paced, full of detail, and memorable. That’s what comes to my mind when I think about the plot of The Seeing Stone. Again, I really wish I a copy of the third book ready to read.
Characters
- The main characters had excellent growth. Each one becoming their own unique and beautiful voice. Giving me the chance to care about them even more. Some of the compassion shown towards living creatures by one of the siblings really helped me find a favorite.
- Whole the first book only had a few secondary characters, this one added a handful more. Eclectic and memorable characters. Characters I hope to see more from in future books.
- The antagonists of this book was well written and evenly ranked with the main characters and their current abilities. The antagonists were a great addition that allowed the Grace siblings to face the potential fear and threat, while finding a way to defeat the challenges.
World Building
The world building was fantastic and delivered what was promised in the first book while still holding back many secrets and expansion for the future books. Between the fantastic creatures, the artifacts, and the lore, this was everything I love in fantasy stories. It reminds me of my time as a kid when I explored the woods looking for secrets, magic, and the unbelievable. It has also opened my eyes as an adult to find the magic in the world once again.
Prose
Just as good as the first book, The Field Guide. It really felt like a continuation, and as if I was reading the next chapters of the first book. This helped me stay in the world and keep the magic of the story alive in my mind. Everything was fast-paced, but not so fast it felt rushed. The world was beautifully described, allowing the illustrations to complement the story and scenery.
Conclusion
The Spiderwick Chronicles: The Seeing Stone is another absolute must read for any young reader, middle-grade student, young adult, aged adult, and everything in between. A perfect addition to the first book that demonstrates the Authors knowing their world, their style, and love sharing it with everyone else to read.
***This is not a paid review. This review is my own personal opinion and thoughts. However, please note that links in this site contains product affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links.
