We review a lot of picture books and Bible stories. But Legend of the Storm Sneezer is a middle grade speculative fiction novel produced by Monster Ivy, an indie publishing company with the motto, “Edgy, clean fiction with Christian values.” If you’re not familiar with speculative fiction, it’s a genre where the story takes place in a setting beyond the real world. It involves supernatural, futuristic, or other imagined elements. Think This Present Darkness by Frank Peretti but for kids. In this case, the story features young angels and other other-worldly creatures.

I found Sfirlea’s story completely captivating. The whimsical humor rivalled any comedic literary work in either the current CBA or ABA middle grade book market. Each page held too many laughs to number. The story also excelled in creativity. I found myself making predictions about what might happen next only to be pleasantly surprised by the plot twists. Sfirlea created a believable and imaginative world I craved learning more about. The setting held a little bit of the creepy–a graveyard and a spooky angel school. Just enough to set the gears in my mind spinning but not enough to unsettle those (like me) who shiver at even a hint of the supernatural. The supporting cast kept their secrets well, providing the brain with a delightful mystery to ponder. And the main character stole the show, carrying a red umbrella and wearing a tutu as she faced the villains. Indeed, Sfirlea wove all three—humor, magic, and mystery—into a well-crafted tale. I know it’s a middle grade novel, but this adult couldn’t put it down.

And now the second book in the series, Legend of the Rainbow Eater, is due to be released soon. Since the cover has been revealed, I used it to accompany this post. I rarely pre-order books, but I’m such a fan, I made a fast purchase.

I recently had the privilege to interview Kristiana for an article I’m writing for Story Embers, and I asked her about her mission. Her answer should be encouraging for those looking for a good read for their child. She said, “I have a desire to put my questions of life and faith into words and to put the answers I’m learning into the very lives of my characters, so that we’re all growing alongside each other. My series The Stormwatch Diaries are the diaries of my main character Rose, but in essence, they’re also the diaries of my own life and faith journey.”

You can check out her website for more information.

Lori Z. Scott

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