Reviewed by Elly for TeensReadToo.com

THE DREAM-MAKER'S MAGIC was an enjoyable read, light and funny.

In the story, Kellen Carmichael's mother insists that she gave birth to a boy and then that boy changed into Kellen.

This story shows how Kellen learns to deal with her mother's stubbornness and makes new friends. She learns to be herself and to not worry about what others think.

This story has a fascinating plot and a surprise ending. I would definitely suggest this book to anyone. ( )

Disappointing ending to Sharon Shinn's YA Safe-Keepers series. It's not that the book is bad, exactly; it's just that it lacks the richness and emotional complexity of most of her work. Even given the premise that the hero's power makes unlikely coincidences happen and unspoken dreams come true, everything feels very scripted, very predictable. The characters and especially the setting are charming, but it didn't make my heart yearn as I've come to depend on from Shinn. ( )

In The Dream-Maker’s Magic, we follow the tale of Kellen, a girl who has brought up as a boy because her mother insists that she was born male and not female. When Kellen attends school, she meets a fellow outcast, Gryffin, who while crippled is highly intelligent. They develop a strong bond as they endure the struggles and abuse of people around them. Eventually, their lives take a turn for the better as they both take jobs at a local inn. However, even as their relationship begins to grow into something deeper, a change a fate occurs for both Kellen and Gryffin. The kingdom’s Dream-Maker, who can make anyone’s dream come true just by being near someone, dies. Kellen and Gryffin’s lives become entangled around the discovery of the new Dream-Maker. Are their dreams coming true? Or, is there something else going on? What will the discovery mean for both Kellen and Gryffin?

I would recommend this book for middle school and lower level-high school students who enjoy romantic stories. It is especially enjoyable since the magical element gives a unique twist on the typical boy meets girl tale. Those who read The Dream-Maker’s Magic will enjoy trying to unravel and decipher the adventures of Kellen and Gryffin. ( )

In this medieval world, there are humans born with the ability to keep secrets safe, to tell only the truth if asked, and one human with the ability to make dreams come true. The romance is not overboard, an especially admirable accomplishment here, plus the plot threads are strong, uplifting, with rustic sincerity. ( )