"The Seventh Wish" is a novel written by Kate Messner. It was published in 2016 and addresses themes of family, friendship, magic, and the challenges of growing up.
The story follows a young girl named Charlie Brennan who lives in a small town in Vermont. One day while ice fishing, she catches a magical fish that grants her wishes. However, there's a catch: each wish comes with consequences, and Charlie must navigate the unexpected outcomes of her wishes, which often lead to more challenges than she anticipated.
As Charlie grapples with the complexities of her wishes, the novel delves into various issues that are relevant to young readers, such as the changing dynamics of friendships, the pressures of school, and the impact of addiction on families. One of the central conflicts in the story involves Charlie's older sister becoming addicted to heroin, which adds a layer of emotional depth to the narrative.
"The Seventh Wish" is known for its sensitive portrayal of serious topics within the context of a middle-grade novel. Kate Messner approaches these subjects with care and authenticity, offering young readers an opportunity to engage with challenging themes while also experiencing the magic and adventure that come with Charlie's wish-granting fish.
The novel explores how unexpected events can affect families and friendships, and it encourages readers to consider the importance of empathy and understanding in difficult situations. Through Charlie's experiences, readers are reminded that even when faced with difficult circumstances, there are ways to find hope and support.