Until a mysterious dress arrives on her doorstep. The gown's beautiful, fitting Olivia as perfectly as if it had been made just for her. Weirder still, it seems to be magic: almost as soon as Olivia wishes it, Violet's by her side. Olivia's missed her sister's vivacious personality so much, she hardly cares that Violet's a ghost, visible to no one but herself. True, it's a tad annoying to have an apparition - especially a very talkative, very opinionated teenage girl one - constantly whispering instructions into her ear, but with Violet at the helm, Olivia finally has the courage to explore her new town, make friends, and let go of some of her sadness.


Wish, Alexandra Bullen's debut novel, is a funny, yet surprisingly tender novel about grief, love, and the powerful bond that exists between girls who are not only sisters, but also twins. Olivia's a wholly sympathetic character, whose struggles will resound with anyone who's ever felt lonely, out-of-place or consumed by grief. The magic element, coupled with Violet's snarkiness, give the story a lightheartedness that keeps it from getting too dark or depressing. In the end, it's a hopeful tale about a girl who loses everything, only to find herself.

(Readalikes: Reminded me of My Fair Godmother by Janette Rallison and a little of Princess for Hire by Lindsey Leavitt)

Grade: B

If this were a movie, it would be rated: PG-13 for language, sexual innuendo, and scenes of underrage drinking/smoking

To the FTC, with love: I received Wish from the generous folks at Scholastic. Thank you!