I have had the complete pleasure of participating in The Sinister Sweetness Blog Tour 2012 featuring Nikki Loftin’s book, The Sinister Sweetness of Splendid Academy!
oodreads.com:
When Lorelei’s old school mysteriously burns down, a new one appears practically overnight: Splendid Academy. Rock-climbing walls on the playground and golden bowls of candy on every desk? Gourmet meals in the cafeteria, served by waiters? Optional homework and two recess periods a day? It’s every kids’ dream.
But Lorelei and her new friend Andrew are pretty sure it’s too good to be true. Together they uncover a sinister mystery, one with their teacher, the beautiful Ms. Morrigan, at the very center.
Then Andrew disappears. Lorelei has to save him, even if that means facing a past she’d like to forget – and taking on a teacher who’s a real witch.
* * *
I love that the main character, Lorelei, is just an average girl and doesn’t seem to possess any mysterious powers or isn’t exceptionally smart or beautiful. Shes a girl that most female readers can relate to. In fact, she thinks of herself as dumb.
This delightful middle grade tale gets my vote for multiculturalism because the main character’s best friend is a boy who struggles with his weight. What makes this story brilliant is that Andrew is not portrayed as the fat kid who is the butt of all jokes. Andrew is overweight, has received treatment, and is working towards making the right food choices. All of this while attending a school that serves all of a kids’ favorite foods all day long!
Who wouldn’t want to cheer for these two kids?
This was a great read and I give it 4 paws!
