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Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
Have you ever wondered if magic is real? In Gordon Tippetts’ The Secret School, the story begins when Ruby leaves home for a mysterious school hidden in the forests of North Wales. Kids usually go there to train as witches, wizards, or elves, but Ruby is assigned to something else. She works even harder for a teacher who is critical of her and gains more confidence. She realizes that courage isn’t about being the biggest or the strongest. Ruby soon understands that learning magic is one thing. Using it is another. Her successes get her closer to fulfilling her destiny. What does magic really mean at the Secret School? And will Ruby fully embrace her unique gifts?
I was quite intrigued by the cover of The Secret School by Gordon Tippetts. It made me think of The Secret Garden. It is an interesting story that will keep children engaged from beginning to end. It reminded me a little of Harry Potter, but not as dark and more original. It had different magical roles, and Ruby’s was unique. I admired her tenacity and really wanted her to succeed. Her friendships develop at a steady pace, and they play an important part in her growing confidence. In my classroom, I would read one chapter a day. I’d also discuss topics like bullying, courage, and resilience. As a follow-up, the kids could create their own school with an original character in a magical role. Even without illustrations, the writing made it easy for me to picture everything that was happening. Anyone looking for stories with enchanting schools, fantasy adventures, or brave young heroes will want to pick this one up. I finished the book feeling that its message could be summed up in this Theodore Roosevelt quote: "Believe you can, and you’re halfway there.” I think this book deserves a place in homes, classrooms, and library shelves.
