Content levels
Trigger warnings
Hero archetypes
Heroine archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Synopsis
In this beautifully illustrated children's fantasy story, two siblings struggle against sharp-edged, bedazzling foes to arrive at a place of knowing, to which they and everything belong. It's Christmas, but thirteen-year-old Maggie and her ten-year-old brother Jesse are anything but joyful. Their mother is dying, the bank is about to foreclose on their home, and very soon, everything about their lives will change. In an adventure that takes them below the earth's surface to a realm inhabited by crystalline life forms - some of which seem to have been spawned from the children themselves - the sister and brother discover the strength of their bond, the breadth of their courage, and the awesome power of love. Amid dazzling displays of colours and shapes, Maggie and Jesse must move through crystal planes and canyons as they do battle with King Bloo, the princes Red and Orange, and Holy Clear. Jesse learns from Princess Amethyst that the thing that scares him the most can waken him to his greatest strength. Sharing his secret with Maggie ultimately leads the two to a place of forgiveness, called home.
Is Chrystallia & the Source of Light appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 10 and up.
Parents should know this story deals with heavy themes of a mother dying and potential homelessness, though it's handled gently. The adventure elements involve mild peril and battles with crystalline beings, and the story emphasizes healing through love and forgiveness.
What to know going in
This book has mild violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include death of parent, grief, and terminal illness (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Kids will enjoy a magical underground adventure with crystalline creatures where two siblings discover their inner strength and the power of their bond.