The Wishing Spell
The Wishing Spell is the debut novel in Chris Colfer's #1 New York Times bestselling series, "The Land of Stories." This middle-grade fantasy adventure introduces twin siblings Alex and Conner Bailey, who find their world turned upside down when they are mysteriously transported into a cherished book of fairy tales. To return to their own dimension, the twins must embark on a thrilling quest across various enchanted kingdoms within the Land of Stories, collecting specific items required to activate the legendary Wishing Spell. Throughout their journey, Alex and Conner encounter familiar fairy tale characters, both heroic and villainous, experiencing a unique blend of their modern sensibilities with the classic magical realm. The book offers a fast-paced narrative filled with adventure, humor, and moments of peril, making it an engaging read for children who enjoy reimagined fairy tales and fantastical quests. The core themes revolve around family, courage, and the discovery of unexpected magic in the world.
Concerns
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
MediumWhile "The Wishing Spell" itself does not contain explicit LGBTQ+ characters or storylines, the author, Chris Colfer, is openly gay and has stated his intention to weave LGBTQ+ themes into the broader "Land of Stories" universe. He has indicated that earlier books contained subtle hints, and later installments in the expanded universe feature openly gay characters and allegories for gay experiences, raising the concern level for parents tracking the series' overall trajectory.
Author Chris Colfer admitted in an Entertainment Weekly article that he 'dropped hints' about LGBTQ+ characters throughout the 'Land of Stories' series, though he 'refrained from using the word "gay" because so many books get banned.' In the related series, 'A Tale of Magic,' Colfer explicitly uses magic as an allegory for being gay, with characters sent to camps to 'pray the magic away.'
Violence
MediumThe book features frequent instances of fantasy violence, including battles, threats, and implied deaths. While generally not graphic with excessive gore, characters face significant physical danger from magical creatures and villains, resulting in injuries and fatalities within the fairy tale context.
Goldilocks uses a sword to fend off large talking wolves, and later, the wolves are seen eating the remains of a wagon and its driver. In one scene, Alex kicks a lantern at a wolf, setting it on fire, and the Huntsman is killed by an arrow thrown back at him by Jack.
Romance and Sexual Content
MediumThe book includes multiple instances of romantic affection, such as passionate kissing, and references to mature romantic themes like 'affairs.' Additionally, there are descriptions of characters' attire that are noted as revealing or suggestive.
The golden harp tells the children that Georgie Porgie has had a number of affairs. Jack and Goldilocks share 'passionate kisses,' and Red Riding Hood is depicted in a pink corset, showing a lot of skin, with more of her chest revealed when she leans forward; a portrait of her in only a wolf skin coat causes one of the boys to smirk.
Witchcraft & Occult
MediumMagic is a central and pervasive element in "The Wishing Spell," as the protagonists navigate a world where fairy tale magic, spells, and enchanted objects are fundamental to the plot. The 'Wishing Spell' itself drives the children's quest, and various characters possess or utilize magical abilities.
The entire plot revolves around Alex and Conner's quest to gather magical items to complete a powerful 'Wishing Spell' to return home. Characters like the Evil Queen and the Fairy Godmother actively use magical powers, including curses and enchantments, throughout the story.
Scary & Intense Content
MediumThe book contains several scary and intense moments typical of fantasy adventures, including threatening villains, dangerous creatures, and situations of peril. These elements are designed to create suspense and excitement rather than sustained horror.
A witch in a gingerbread house intends to eat the children, growing larger with jagged teeth as she considers her meal. The twins are captured and imprisoned by the Troll and Goblin Kings, facing an uncertain fate until they find a way to escape.
Disrespect & Rebellion
MediumInstances of disrespect and rebellious behavior are present, primarily through characters questioning or defying authority figures and rules. While not consistently central to the plot, these moments showcase challenging attitudes and rule-bending.
Conner is noted for bending rules and even cheating on a test, with the act not being significantly addressed later in the story. The twins also 'storm from kingdom to kingdom telling the monarchs that they suck at being monarchs,' demonstrating a lack of respect for established rule.
Anti-Christian Themes
MediumWhile "The Wishing Spell" itself includes incidental references to Christian beliefs (funeral in a church, saying a prayer), the broader series has drawn concern from Christian parent review outlets due to the author's stated intent to incorporate LGBTQ+ themes, which are viewed as conflicting with a Christian worldview, into later books within the same universe.
Christian reviews note that the author, Chris Colfer, is openly gay and that later books in the extended "Land of Stories" universe feature explicit LGBTQ+ characters and allegories, leading to a recommendation for Christian parents to avoid the series. Despite this, "The Wishing Spell" contains elements like a character's father's funeral being held in a church and Conner saying a prayer before a test.
Profanity
LowThe profanity in "The Wishing Spell" is limited to mild expletives and religious exclamations. Stronger curse words are largely absent, making the language generally suitable for its target audience.
Examples of mild language include the word 'd-n' spoken once, and religious exclamations such as 'God's name with thank' and 'Good heavens.' Other mild objectionable words noted are 'heck' and 'jeez.'
Substance Use
LowNo explicit or implied instances of substance use, including alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs, are detailed within the narrative of "The Wishing Spell." Review sources generally do not report specific examples for this book.
There are no characters shown consuming alcohol, smoking, or using any illicit drugs. The narrative does not contain dialogue or scenes that reference substance abuse.
Other Notes
Target Demographic
Recommended for ages 9+ due to the presence of moderate fantasy violence, some suggestive romantic elements, and thematic discussions that may be more appropriate for pre-teen readers. While the language is generally mild, the intensity of action and romantic content suggest suitability for this age group.
Additional Notes
Parents should be aware that 'The Wishing Spell' is the first book in a longer series, and thematic content, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ representation, evolves and becomes more explicit in later installments within the 'Land of Stories' universe. The author has publicly discussed his intentional, albeit subtle, inclusion of these themes from early on. Readers interested in the broader series should research the content progression of subsequent books.
Related Reviews
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