The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer

Wishes, Riddles, and the Magic of Storytelling

Remember that feeling of cracking open a beloved book from your childhood, the pages crackling with possibility and wonder? Meg Shaffer’s enchanting debut novel “The Wishing Game” captures that exact magic, wrapping it in a warm blanket of found family, second chances, and the transformative power of stories.

Like a modern-day Charlie Bucket stumbling upon a golden ticket, teacher’s aide Lucy Hart finds herself whisked away to the mysterious Clock Island—home of her literary hero Jack Masterson. What follows is a whimsical yet poignant tale that will resonate with anyone who’s ever longed to escape into the pages of their favorite book.

A Ticking Clock and Heartstrings

Twenty-six-year-old Lucy Hart knows all too well what it means to feel unwanted. Neglected by her parents in favor of her chronically ill sister, Lucy found solace in Jack Masterson’s beloved Clock Island book series as a child. Now, she channels that love of reading into her work as a teacher’s aide, forming a special bond with seven-year-old Christopher Lamb – a recently orphaned boy she longs to adopt.

When the reclusive Masterson announces a contest at his home on the real Clock Island, Lucy jumps at the chance to win the only copy of his new book. The prize money could mean everything for her dreams of giving Christopher a proper home. But Clock Island holds more than just riddles and games—it’s a place where wishes have a habit of coming true in unexpected ways.

Characters That Tick and Charm

Shaffer populates her novel with a cast of endearing and relatable characters:

• Lucy Hart: Our plucky protagonist, whose determination and heart make her instantly lovable
• Christopher Lamb: The precocious boy at the center of Lucy’s world
• Jack Masterson: The enigmatic author with more than a few tricks up his sleeve
• Hugo Reese: The gruff yet charming illustrator of the Clock Island books
• Andre, Melanie, and Dustin: Lucy’s fellow contestants, each with their own compelling reasons for playing the game

The author deftly weaves their stories together, creating a tapestry of hopes, fears, and shared connections that will keep readers invested until the very last page.

A Setting That Springs to Life

Clock Island itself emerges as a character in its own right. Shaffer’s vivid descriptions bring the whimsical locale to life, from the eerily empty City of Second Hand to the mysterious Storm Seller’s shop. Readers will find themselves longing to explore every nook and cranny of this magical place, just as they did with Hogwarts or Narnia in their youth.

Ticking All the Right Boxes

“The Wishing Game” succeeds on multiple levels:

A Love Letter to Reading

At its core, this novel is a celebration of the transformative power of books. Shaffer captures the way stories can provide comfort, inspiration, and a sense of belonging – especially for those who feel like outsiders. Bibliophiles will delight in the many literary references and the palpable love for storytelling that infuses every page.

Found Family and Second Chances

The theme of found family runs strong throughout the book. Lucy and Christopher’s bond is beautifully portrayed, and the makeshift family that forms on Clock Island will warm even the coldest of hearts. Shaffer deftly explores how connection and belonging can arise in the most unexpected places.

A Dash of Romance

While not the primary focus, the slow-burn romance between Lucy and Hugo adds a delightful layer to the story. Their banter crackles with chemistry, and readers will find themselves rooting for this pair of lovable misfits.

Healing Through Play

The concept of facing fears through games and riddles is a clever device that allows for character growth while maintaining a sense of whimsy. Shaffer strikes a delicate balance between addressing heavy themes and keeping the overall tone uplifting.

A Few Minor Hiccups

While “The Wishing Game” is a strong debut, there are a few areas where it occasionally stumbles:

Pacing

The middle section of the book can drag slightly as the characters work through various games and challenges. Some readers may find themselves wishing for a brisker pace during these segments.

Predictability

Certain plot twists, particularly regarding the contest’s outcome, may be somewhat telegraphed for seasoned readers. However, the joy of the journey more than makes up for any lack of surprise in the destination.

The Final Verdict

“The Wishing Game” is a heartwarming, magical read that will appeal to fans of Katherine Center, TJ Klune, and anyone who’s ever wished they could step into the pages of their favorite childhood book. Meg Shaffer has crafted a world that readers will be reluctant to leave, filled with characters who linger long after the last page is turned.

This debut novel marks Shaffer as an author to watch in the realm of feel-good, magical realism. While “The Wishing Game” stands alone beautifully, readers will undoubtedly be clamoring for more stories set in this enchanting world.

Who Should Read This Book?

• Lovers of whimsical, heartwarming fiction
• Fans of found family stories
• Anyone who’s ever dreamed of escaping into their favorite book
• Readers who enjoy a touch of magic in their contemporary fiction
• Those looking for an uplifting read with depth and heart

Similar Reads

If you enjoyed “The Wishing Game,” you might also like:

• “The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune
• “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig
• “The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry” by Gabrielle Zevin
• “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
• “The Starless Sea” by Erin Morgenstern

In the End, A Wish Granted

Like the best stories from our childhood, “The Wishing Game” leaves us with a sense of possibility and hope. It reminds us that family can be found in the most unexpected places, that it’s never too late for second chances, and that the magic of a good book can change lives.

Meg Shaffer has delivered a debut that feels like a warm hug from an old friend. As Jack Masterson might say, “The only wishes ever granted are the wishes of brave readers who keep on wishing even when it seems no one is listening because someone somewhere always is.” For those who pick up “The Wishing Game,” that wish for a truly magical reading experience is most certainly granted.