The Magic Misfits

Neil Patrick Harris, Illustr. Lissy Marlin
47 pages1-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Middle Grade
Published in 2017

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Book Brief

Neil Patrick Harris, Illustr. Lissy Marlin

The Magic Misfits

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

•

Mystery & Crime Fiction

•

Action & Adventure
Setting

Mineral Wells • Contemporary

Theme
Friendship

•

Coming of Age

•

Family
First Publication Year

2017

Publisher

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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Super Short Summary

The Magic Misfits by Neil Patrick Harris follows young magician Carter Locke, who runs away from his criminal guardian, Uncle Sly, and finds himself in the town of Mineral Wells. There, he discovers a magical shop and befriends a group of young magicians. Together, they work to thwart the schemes of the villainous carnival owner, B. B. Bosso, while Carter learns about identity, courage, and the true meaning of family. The book contains descriptions of child abuse and neglect.

Playful

Adventurous

Fantastical

Heartwarming

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

4.1

19,423 ratings

76%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Neil Patrick Harris's The Magic Misfits, illustrated by Lissy Marlin, is widely praised for its engaging story, captivating illustrations, and positive messages of friendship and self-discovery. However, some critics feel the plot is somewhat predictable and the pacing uneven. Overall, it is celebrated for appealing to young readers and encouraging inclusivity and teamwork.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Magic Misfits?

Readers who would enjoy The Magic Misfits by Neil Patrick Harris and illustrated by Lissy Marlin are likely fans of middle-grade adventure and fantasy. They often appreciate the whimsical charm found in books like Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling or A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket.

4.1

19,423 ratings

76%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

A young runaway skilled in legerdemain who arrives in Mineral Wells hiding from his past, while trying to find a place to belong and practice magic on his own terms.

Carter's corrupt guardian, who uses sleight-of-hand tricks for con artistry, creating a life of instability and manipulation for Carter.

A magician and owner of a magic shop in Mineral Wells, who becomes a mentor and father figure to Carter, teaching him the positive uses of magic.

Dante Vernon's adopted daughter and a spirited escape artist, who quickly befriends Carter and becomes his ally in Mineral Wells.

The antagonist and owner of a carnival that serves as a front for criminal activities, presenting a challenge to the children with his greedy and deceitful operations.

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

•

Mystery & Crime Fiction

•

Action & Adventure
Setting

Mineral Wells • Contemporary

Theme
Friendship

•

Coming of Age

•

Family
First Publication Year

2017

Publisher

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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