The Wishing Game: A Novel

This may be my favorite standalone book I’ve read all year. First of all, Clock Island is magical. The writing transports you right there, and I was sad when the book was over and I had to leave.

My favorite character was Jack, he felt like the picture of altruism, compassion and warmth.

I did not find any of the storylines problematic like many other readers did. The relationship between Lucy and Christopher did not feel creepy at all. She wasn’t secretly pining for this child, she even meets with his adoption caseworker. There were no ill intentions there. Maybe a bit of an unrealistic fantasy, but other than that, as a former educator, I related very much to Lucy wanting to save a child from their difficult home life.

The ending had me sobbing happy tears.

This book made me feel, deeply. I feel that this has the potential to be a series and I hope there will someday be a book two.

Loved this one. Made me nostalgic for the books that got me reading when I was a kid.

I normally only rate the books I read, not write reviews. But I had to take the time for this book. It simultaneously had me missing the simpler days of childhood while feeling seen for the struggles that come with adulthood, with being a parent. By the end I felt as though I should be brave and mend relationships with estranged family members. This will absolutely rekindle any lost hopes and long forgotten wishes. I experienced real joy for these characters. I read it at exactly the right time as well, when I needed my own Master Mastermind. Truly a feel good, cozy novel that will have you ugly crying with happiness.

3.25 stars. Totally understand why this book was selected for so many awards. This is the type of book someone should read when you feel like life is beating you down and you need a "pick me up", and its is packaged with a nice big bow. It's sweet, charming, and a touch mysterious. Lucy Harts full life story unfolds over ~300 pages and you can't help but feel your heart strings tug. Also, she is an avid reader, albeit a little obsessed with one children's book series- "The Clock Island" series. Hugo and Jack play important roles in this book as well... as does Charlie. The book was definitely exciting and intriguing at parts, but fell a little flat for me at others.

When I started this book I thought that it would just be a sweet story but it was so much more! I laughed, I cried and I was so touched and inspired by Lucy and her story.