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The Seventh Wish summary
Brief summary
The Seventh Wish is a captivating middle-grade novel by Kate Messner. It tells the story of twelve-year-old Charlie who discovers the power of magic and the consequences of chasing after wishes.
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The Seventh Wish
Summary of key ideas
The Journey of Wishes
In The Seventh Wish by Kate Messner, we meet Charlie, a twelve-year-old girl who loves Irish dancing. She goes ice fishing with her best friend, Drew, and her brother, Peter, and catches a talking fish. The fish offers her a wish in exchange for its freedom. Charlie is skeptical but decides to give it a try. She wishes for a new dress for her Irish dance competition, and the wish comes true.
Charlie is thrilled and starts making more wishes. She wishes for her parents to stop fighting, for her brother to get a job, and for her best friend to stop being mad at her. However, each wish comes with unexpected consequences. Her parents stop fighting because her dad moves out, her brother gets a job but starts using drugs, and her best friend stops being mad at her because she finds a new friend.
Wishes and Reality
Charlie realizes that her wishes are not solving her problems but creating new ones. She also learns that her brother is addicted to heroin. She feels guilty for not noticing the signs earlier and for not being able to help him. She tries to help him by wishing for him to get better, but the wish doesn't work. She understands that addiction is a complex issue that can't be solved with a simple wish.
As Charlie's life becomes more complicated, she finds solace in her Irish dancing. She practices hard and wins the competition, but her happiness is short-lived. Her brother's addiction worsens, and he ends up in the hospital. Charlie feels helpless and blames herself for not being able to help him. She realizes that she can't rely on wishes to solve her problems and decides to take action.
Acceptance and Hope
Charlie starts attending support group meetings for families dealing with addiction. She learns about the disease and how to support her brother. She also finds support from her friends and family. She accepts that she can't control her brother's addiction but can be there for him. She also learns to accept the changes in her family, like her dad moving out.
In the end, Charlie catches the talking fish again and wishes for her brother to be safe. The wish doesn't come true, but Charlie feels a sense of peace. She understands that she can't control everything in her life, but she can face the challenges with courage and hope. She continues to dance, finding joy and strength in her passion.
Conclusion
In The Seventh Wish, Kate Messner beautifully weaves a story about the complexities of life, the power of family, and the importance of acceptance. Through Charlie's journey, we learn that wishes can't solve our problems, but facing them with courage and seeking support can help us navigate through tough times. The book provides a sensitive and honest portrayal of addiction and its impact on families, making it a valuable read for young readers.
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What is The Seventh Wish about?
The Seventh Wish by Kate Messner is a captivating middle-grade novel that tells the story of twelve-year-old Charlie who discovers a magical fish that grants her wishes. As she navigates the challenges of her family and friendships, Charlie learns valuable lessons about the power of choices and the true meaning of happiness.
The Seventh Wish Review
The Seventh Wish (2016) is a heartfelt middle-grade novel that explores the themes of family, friendship, and the complexities of growing up. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:
- Delving into important issues such as addiction and loss, it tackles difficult subjects with sensitivity and compassion.
- By weaving elements of magic into the story, the book adds an imaginative touch that captures the reader's attention and sparks curiosity.
- With its relatable protagonist and authentic portrayal of the challenges faced in adolescence, the book resonates with readers of all ages.
Who should read The Seventh Wish?
- Readers who enjoy middle-grade fiction
- Those interested in stories about family and friendship
- Individuals who like to explore themes of magic and wishes
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The Seventh Wish FAQs
What is the main message of The Seventh Wish?
The main message of The Seventh Wish is about friendship, family, and the unexpected challenges we may face.
How long does it take to read The Seventh Wish?
The reading time for The Seventh Wish varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The Seventh Wish a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Seventh Wish is a captivating read worth your time. It explores the complexities of growing up, dealing with challenges, and finding strength within oneself.
Who is the author of The Seventh Wish?
Kate Messner is the author of The Seventh Wish.
What to read after The Seventh Wish?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Seventh Wish, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright