I’ve been reading lots lately. And I admit, I do tend to post the reviews that I give the highest rating to, since I like giving good news to everyone! But I’m glad to say, here is one more reason that people of all ages should be reading. every. single. day! “Scumble” by Ingrid Law is book two in the “Savvy” series.
Synopsis:
Nine years after Mibs’s Savvy journey, her cousin Ledge has just turned thirteen . . . But Ledger Kale’s savvy is a total dud-all he does is make little things fall apart. So his parents decide it’s safe to head to Wyoming, where it’s soon revealed that Ledge’s savvy is much more powerful than anyone thought. Worse, his savvy disaster has an outside witness: Sarah Jane Cabot, reporter wannabe and daughter of the local banker. Just like that, Ledge’s beloved normal life is over. Now he has to keep Sarah from turning family secrets into headlines, stop her father from foreclosing on Uncle Autry’s ranch, and scumble his savvy into control so that, someday, he can go home.
Starring a cast both fresh and familiar, Scumble brilliantly melds Ingrid Law’s signature heart and humor with the legendary Wild West.
The Short: 5 stars out of 5
The Long: First off, if you haven’t read my blog post on the first book in this series, “Savvy”, go back and do that now! This second book in the “Savvy” series is a rare instance where an author writes a follow up work that is just as good – if not better – than the first! True, this series isn’t set up like traditional series, where each book relies on the one before it – which can sometimes lead to that dreaded stale ‘middle book’ that bogs down trilogies. This book is a unique story that stands alone and can be read without having to read the first. (Although, with a book as fantastic as the first one, why would you skip it?)
I am impressed with Ms. Law and her ability to once again create an intriguing story that is completely different from the first, but draws the reader in just as quickly. I honestly didn’t know that I’d like this book, because I’d grown to care so deeply for Mibs and the rest of the cast from book one. But I was Ledge’s best friend right from chapter one, sharing in his heartache and frustration with his savvy, and rooting for him to have the power to help save his grandfather’s farm, in the end. Law’s writing style is consistent and engaging for any middle grade reader, as well as this adult reader! There is the perfect balance of fun and thrill in this novel. And just like the first book, this one left me wishing that savvies were real, and that I was related this this topsy-turvy family!
I believe readers of all ages and genders will appreciate this installment of the “Savvy” series! If you liked the first book, you will definitely not be disappointed with this next story. And the good news? Her latest book in the series was just released a few weeks ago. And yes! I’ve already read it and will have a review coming in a few days.
Until then, be sure to check out both of these books in the “Savvy” series!
Happy reading, friends.