Ophelia and the Marvelous Boy by Karen Foxlee

Ophelia and the Marvelous Boy

by Karen Foxlee

“Magic is “messy and dangerous and filled with longing,” we learn in this brave tale of grief, villainy and redemption that borrows from the story of the Snow Queen. Set in a vast, chilly museum, the tale brings together a valiant girl, a charmed boy, a magical sword and a clock ticking down to the end of the world.”—The Wall Street Journal

This is the story of unlikely heroine Ophelia Jane Worthington-Whittard who doesn't believe in anything that can't be proven by science. She and her sister Alice are still grieving for their dead mother when their father takes a job in a strange museum in a city where it always snows. On her very first day in the museum Ophelia discovers a boy locked away in a long forgotten room.  He is a prisoner of Her Majesty, the Snow Queen.  And he has been waiting for Ophelia's help.

As Ophelia embarks on an incredible journey to rescue the boy everything that she believes will be tested. Along the way she learns more and more about the boy's own remarkable journey to reach her and save the world.

A story within a story, this a modern day fairytale about the power of friendship, courage and love, and never ever giving up.

Reviewed by lovelybookshelf on

5 of 5 stars

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Originally posted on my blog, A Lovely Bookshelf on the Wall:

Ophelia and the Marvelous Boy is a dazzling modern day retelling of the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale The Snow Queen. Her grief still fresh after the recent loss of her mother, Ophelia discovers a boy locked in the museum where her father is working and becomes entangled in a quest to save the world.

Full of excitement and magic, Foxlee's storytelling absolutely glitters. This is the kind of superb writing that enchants the reader, making you feel as if you're reading a classic.

This book made me cry (more than once). There were moments so profound, so intricately layered, that children will connect with the story on one level, and adults on a deeper level.

Best of all, Ophelia is a strong character. She's practical, intelligent, and kindhearted. She is scientifically-minded, but her curiosity and her fearless questioning keeps her always learning, always discovering new things, open to whatever adventure comes her way.

With Ophelia and the Marvelous Boy, Karen Foxlee has crafted a timeless story all ages will find both relevant and magical.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 15 January, 2014: Finished reading
  • 15 January, 2014: Reviewed