Upside Down Magic ✩✩✩✩

What if you performed misfit magic and instead of turning into a kitten, you turn into a "dritten" -- a dragon/kitten mash up? From a trio of popular authors, this series starter is great for readers not quite ready to tackle Harry Potter. In the very cute premise, Nory is a girl who comes from a family of magicians, yet her magic always comes out "wonky." (That word always makes me think of Kate DiCamillo's Mercy Watson series!) Coincidentally and unfortunately, Nory's father is principal of the elite magic school that Nory would like to attend. When she doesn't pass the admittance test, Nory is sent to live with her aunt and go to a school that promotes "upside-down magic" for their more individual learners. Here is where Nory and her adorably misfit classmates learn that it's ok to be an individual. 

This book is a 2018 Connecticut Nutmeg nominated title for elementary readers. Third grade and up readers who enjoy humor, animals and fantasy will love this series starter.