Equinox Test (School for Unusual Magic #1)

The Equinox Test is a tale of three children, Rose, Amethyst, and Lav, going to a school for magic-bearing children in an otherwise-normal Brooklyn. All three need to pass the Equinox Test (an exam testing comprehension of magical learning), the results of which determine their future. However, Rose has never been the best student, Amethyst’s mom expects too much of her, and Lav is lonely for a home imperiled by rising seas. All the while, friction within the magical parts of Brooklyn is causing political issues to arrive.

Over the course of these troubles, The Equinox Test covers hard themes such as cheating, friendship break-ups (and put-back-togethers), and moving. Liz Montague writes in easily comprehensible language with numerous, goofy pictures, perfectly filling the target niche. I would highly recommend this book to elementary and early middle school students who like fantasy. I think every elementary school library should own this book, and possibly some middle school libraries as well.

If you are interested in magic school fantasy and are trying to comprehend the social issues involved in elementary school, The Equinox Test is the book for you!