A Hundred Magical Reasons by Laura DeNooyer begins with a quote by L. Frank Baum, the author of The Wizard of Oz, that encapsulates its message: “Stunt, dwarf, or destroy the imagination of a child and you have taken away its chances of success in life.” Sadly, that is what has happened or is about to happen to this inspirational novel's two central characters. Carrie Kruisselbrink is a young woman who aspires to open a restaurant and bookstore with a literary theme; however, her parents and fiance wish her to pursue a more conventional teaching career. Charlotte Rose Gordon is an embittered old woman whose religious parents stunted her curiosity when she was a child – until she meets Frank Baum and his family who show her that a good imagination can inspire confidence, happiness, and faith. During the novel, their lives will become intertwined in more ways than one.

A Hundred Magical Reasons moves between eras: the early 1900s and 1980, giving the reader an intimate look at the lives of both women and their times. I loved how Laura De Nooyer incorporated the culture, especially the music, of 1980. Since I was a young woman during the 1980s, I am familiar with most of the references – like those to Billy Joel’s The Stranger album – creating a nostalgic look at my past. I also enjoyed the lively recreation of the early 20th century. DeNooyer is adept in her ability to show the creativity of the Baum family which proves infectious to the young Charlotte Rose. The author also reveals the difficulties of having a vivid imagination, illustrating that the life of the mind has its challenges. Nevertheless, it is worth the effort, for to be an unconventional person held hostage by a conventional life could well be the most unfulfilling of all.

A Hundred Magical Reasons by multi-award-winning Laura DeNooyer is a brilliant family story blended with clean romance, social issues, and a touch of mystery. Carrie Kruisselbrink is a young college graduate. Her parents expected her to become a teacher and paid her tuition, but she hated teaching and failed the diploma. Carrie dreams of opening a book café featuring her favorite authors and menus inspired by their books. But her parents would never approve. So, unknown to them, Carrie applied for a bank loan and accepted a summer job from the elderly Mrs. Gordon. Mrs. Gordon’s late husband had been charged with murder, and Mrs. Gordon wanted Carrie to help her clear his name. But will Carrie succeed with her book café? And will Mrs. Gordon clear her husband’s name?

Reading Laura DeNooyer’s A Hundred Magical Reasons, I felt like I had discovered a treasure trove of wisdom. As a child, I loved L. Frank Baum’s stories, and I enjoyed Mrs. Gordon’s recollections and his portrayal as a parent and a friend. I liked the pervasive, thought-provoking religious streak. I instantly bonded with Mrs. Gordon and Carrie, and I liked how their lives, almost a century apart, mirrored each other. I also liked how the novel explored social issues. But most of all, I liked the ending—it exceeded my expectations on all counts! I highly recommend this awesome book to readers who enjoy family stories with a mystery twist. This novel is an utterly delightful read. Parents, child caregivers, educators, and young adults will particularly benefit from the wisdom of this novel.