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Half Upon a Time

Book Resume

for Half Upon a Time by James Riley

Professional book information and credentials for Half Upon a Time.

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  • School Library Journal:
  • Grades 5 - 9
  • TeachingBooks:*
  • Grades 5-8
  • Word Count:
  • 74,015
  • Lexile Level:
  • 820L
  • ATOS Reading Level:
  • 5.5
  • Genre:
  • Adventure
  • Fairy Tales / Folklore
  • Science Fiction / Fantasy
  • Year Published:
  • 2010

The following unabridged reviews are made available under license from their respective rights holders and publishers. Reviews may be used for educational purposes consistent with the fair use doctrine in your jurisdiction, and may not be reproduced or repurposed without permission from the rights holders.

Note: This section may include reviews for related titles (e.g., same author, series, or related edition).

From School Library Journal

March 1, 2011

Gr 5-9-In his twisted fairy-tale world, hapless young Jack fails his princess-rescuing test, but fate gives him another chance when a circle of blue fire deposits May, wearing a T-shirt that reads "Punk Princess," into his cottage. Jack recognizes her as a true princess and they set off on a quest to find her grandmother, Snow White. Joined by super-smooth Prince Phillip, and staying just ahead of the giant green Huntsman, they journey to the Black Forest, ride the wicked wolf's back, release a genie when they break Red Hood's magic mirror, and spend time in the dungeon of a fairy queen before finding Snow White and seven dwarfs in the Palace of the Snow Queen. Jack is perennially clumsy, and May has a quick, sharp tongue until she trades her sarcasm to save Jack's life. Snappy dialogue, fast-paced action, unexpected twists, and the inevitable conflicts of a threesome made up of two teenage boys and a pretty girl make this an enjoyable read. A whirlwind ending upsets everything, setting the stage for a sequel.-Kathleen Isaacs, Children's Literature Specialist, Pasadena, MD

Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Half Upon a Time was recognized by committees of professional librarians and educators for the following book awards and distinctions.

Half Upon a Time was selected by educational and library professionals to be included on the following state/provincial reading lists.

United States Lists (3)

Florida

  • Sunshine State Young Readers Award, 2014-2015, Middle School, Grades 6-8

Missouri

  • Mark Twain Readers Award, 2012-2013, Grades 4-6

South Carolina

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This Book Resume for Half Upon a Time is compiled from TeachingBooks, a library of professional resources about children's and young adult books. This page may be shared for educational purposes and must include copyright information. Reviews are made available under license from their respective rights holders and publishers.

*Grade levels are determined by certified librarians utilizing editorial reviews and additional materials. Relevant age ranges vary depending on the learner, the setting, and the intended purpose of a book.

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