As You Wish

Heartbreaking, other times hilarious, but always thought-provoking. An unexpectedly affecting book that will have readers pondering what they would wish for if given the chance. - Booklist Poignant... Will inspire readers to explore the question: if you could have one wish, what would it be - Kirkus Reviews An engrossing read, fantastical and believable at the same time. - Horn Book Magazine The plot itself transcends Eldon's quest for a wish and becomes a study of human nature. This is a good story that includes a bit of romance, sports, friendship, family issues, and coming of age. A thoroughly engaging choice for readers of realistic fiction and magical realism. - School Library Journal Depending on the reader, this novel offers different levels of intensity, starting with the everyday sort of teen troubles, progressing to difficult family dynamics, and reaching up to the ethical dilemmas wishing can create-all while being easy to read and hard to put down. - VOYA Magazine, Perfect Ten The book provides an interesting and original premise that will open up some great discussion about what students might wish for and what the ramifications of those wishes might be. - School Library Connection The countdown structure creates a natural hook, and Sedoti (The Hundred Lies of Lizzie Lovett) makes good use of her what-if premise to give readers much to consider. She successfully captures the feelings of uncertainty that come with nascent adulthood, the desire to leave home, and waiting for one's life to begin. - Publishers Weekly Chelsea Sedoti (The Hundred Lies of Lizzie Lovett) masterfully crafts a tale that draws together the stories of an entire town's residents while focusing on Eldon and his friends. Through Eldon's wrenching struggles, we see how the possibility of getting what you think you want is fraught with complications. Despite the magical elements, Eldon's actions and longings ring true, reminding us that every day serves up life-altering choices, both large and small. - BookPage The premise makes for a fascinating set of what-ifs that aren't resolved by Eldon's final decision; readers will want to consider further the larger questions raised here about the role risk, selfishness, free will, uncertain outcomes, and unintended consequences play in happiness. - Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books