The Elle Burton Book Receives 5-Star Review from Reader’s Favorite
Elle Burton and the Reflective Portals Reviewed By Mamta Madhavan for Readers’ Favorite
Review: Elle Burton and the Reflective Portals: Lessons from Fiori Book 1 by Peggy M McAloon and Anneka Rogers is an enchanting and fantastical story of Elle, a ten-year-old girl who has this rare gift to see fairy-like Fiorins. Elle’s father is in Afghanistan, and she lives with her mother, who is expecting a baby.
Elle learns that she has been chosen as a guide by Fiorins, who are tiny winged creatures that help to protect young children on Earth when her younger brother is born. As the story progresses, readers see Elle taking on new challenges and getting involved in protecting a child from an abusive father, helping an overweight girl, and many other instances where she feels her help is needed.
Kindness – Enchantment – Magic
Elle Burton and the Reflective Portals is a story of kindness, enchantment, and magic, and the author weaves the fantasy elements along with life lessons through this whimsical story. The author touches on topics that are relevant when it comes to the struggles faced by children, and readers get to see the protagonist, Elle, dealing with all sorts of issues.
The exquisite use of language tones down the harshness of death, bullying, etc. and the whimsy in the tale will help young readers enjoy the story as they turn the pages. All the characters are lovable, and the monsters and magical creatures add to the fantasy element. Elle Burton’s character will inspire children to follow their passions in life.
Wanting More
I like the way the author tackles different issues, thereby giving many layers to the plot. The messages conveyed in the story are profound and uplifting, and they will encourage and motivate children to rise above their potential during difficult times so that they can make a difference to this world. Yes, like everyone else, I am waiting for the next book to learn more about Elle’s journey.
One of the reviewers listened to the audio version with her children. Then, she shared on her blog how excited the kids were each day to hear more of the story.
Another reviewer said she saved the book until her daughter was old enough to read it with her. It took awhile, because of all the discussions they had throughout the book. These were discussions of things kids face every day in school.
So, that’s the reason I wrote the book…to get parents and kids talking about subjects we have considered taboo for far too many years. Kids are so much smarter than we give them credit for. They can keep secrets that need to come out.
The Courage to Move Forward
I sent the second book in the series to Reader’s Favorite several years ago. Missing was the first book I published on my own. (Except for a business reference guide I wrote in the 90’s.) Also, I remember how terrified I was when I hit the send button. “Missing” also received a 5-Star rating from Reader’s Favorite. That was back when my first attempt at self-publishing could be a disaster, and that thought terrified me.
Two weeks ago, I worried that the first Elle book wouldn’t meet the same high rating. I’m so delighted the reviewer liked all the same things about the book I did as I wrote it.
Don’t forget to print out your free Discussion Sheet to help you as you read Elle Burton and the Reflective Portals with your child.
Be Safe. Be Loved. Pass It On!
Congrats, Peggy! This is amazing. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 I hope you are inspired to continue Elle’s story.
I’m working on it, Mili!