Miriwan Academy Review: A New Magical World?

 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

"No one noticed his shadow stretched out behind him, twice its normal size"

If you are a fan of fantasy stories filled with magic, hidden worlds, and unique abilities, Miriwan Academy by Anas Hakeem might just be your next read. This is the first book in the Boy with the Living Shadow Series and it introduces us to a fascinating new universe.

The story follows Adam, a lonely orphan boy who has always felt different. The reason is his shadow has a mind of its own! Just when he thinks life can't get any stranger, he is whisked away by gnomes to a secret magical world. He soon learns that what he thought was a 'curse' is actually a rare and powerful legacy. Now enrolled at Miriwan Academy, he realizes that being special is both a blessing and a target.

What really excite me about this book is how unique the concept is within its genre. Finding a middle-grade fantasy with a magical boarding school setting that features Muslim characters is quite rare, and I love how that aspect is woven naturally and clearly throughout the story. It brings a fresh cultural and spiritual flavor to the table.

The writing itself is also engaging. The author does a great job describing the settings so you can really picture the magical academy in your mind. The character development is solid, and the pacing is just right, never too slow, so you never feel bored while reading.

However, if you are a big fan of Harry Potter, you will definitely notice some strong similarities. I've read middle grade books that have similar theme and setting as Harry Potter, but this book is way too similar. From his background story to his characteristic, Adam is literally Harry.

Despite all, I truly enjoyed reading Miriwan Academy. Even though the story structure is something I've seen before, it is still a well-written and entertaining adventure, and since it's still the first book, I do hope that in the next installments the story will develop into something different and unique.

If you go into it expecting a fun, magical journey rather than something completely new, you will definitely have a good time! 

Thank you Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley for providing me with the review copy.