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The Remedy
Joss Hall's little sister, Bibi, is dying, and it's all Joss's fault. Everyone agrees the situation is hopeless, but there is no way Joss is going to sit around and do nothing. The quirky Miss Giselle tells Joss about a mysterious creature called a jarrlock that is rumored to possess magical healing powers. So Joss and her friends, Domino and Anton, decide to hike through the remote forest of Burkett Mountain, hoping to find one. Along the way, they meet all kinds of forest inhabitants, some strange and some terrifying. When they finally stumble across a jarrlock, he certainly isn't what they expected!
Full of suspense, adventure, and humor, this middle-grade story of perseverance and friendship is fun for all ages.
Librarian's note: See alternate cover edition of ISBN 1493699350 here.
Full of suspense, adventure, and humor, this middle-grade story of perseverance and friendship is fun for all ages.
Librarian's note: See alternate cover edition of ISBN 1493699350 here.
- GenresFantasy
188 pages, Paperback
First published November 15, 2013
3 people are currently reading
731 people want to read
About the author
Susan Srikant
20 books39 followersSusan Srikant is the author of several books for kids including the ShowBiz series and the Color Wheel Art series.
She lives in the flatlands of Illinois and spends time playing volleyball and watching tiny rabbits eat her garden vegetables.
Just for fun, check out her website MiddleGround TopFive for Top Five Lists that cover all kinds of things from Famous Moustaches to Edible Insects!
http://middlegroundtopfive.weebly.com/
She lives in the flatlands of Illinois and spends time playing volleyball and watching tiny rabbits eat her garden vegetables.
Just for fun, check out her website MiddleGround TopFive for Top Five Lists that cover all kinds of things from Famous Moustaches to Edible Insects!
http://middlegroundtopfive.weebly.com/
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 7, 2015
I was given a copy of this book by Susan Srikant in exchange for an honest review.
When I started reading The Remedy, I was delighted that the book opened up with a scene with three sisters playing in the forest. It was adorable, and the banter reminded me of things that my sister and I say to one another when we become annoyed or angry. I was then very quickly shocked by how quickly Srikant introduces the problem in the novel - Bibi eating poisonous berries. But don't be too shocked because The Remedy takes readers on a roller coaster ride full of twists and turns!
The book itself is wonderfully written for children, especially those between the ages of ten and fourteen. I could imagine a younger version of me eating this book up. It is also full of a vast variety of vocabulary that I think any parent or teacher would want his or her students to learn in those years. I can see myself bringing this book into my classroom one day if I end up teaching middle school for the kids. I'm sure they'd love to borrow it.
The characters are delightful, especially the spitfire middle sister, Joss. She has to deal with guilt because she thinks it's her fault that Bibi is sick, but she doesn't take anything from anybody. She is quick on her feet and has enough wit to get her through any conversation. Her friends, Domino and Anton, are also a nice pair to bring along on an adventure. Together, the three of them balance one another out perfectly. Oh, and I can't forget the quirky Miss Gizelle! She's a hoot!
Like other adventure and fantasy books, the characters encounter some nasty characters - Krone and his hawk, Havoc. I'm sure that you can guess that the name of the bird means that these two can be pretty nasty.
I'm still a little skeptical of how I want to classify this book. It's very much a middle grade novel, but it is so much more than just that. There are hints of fantasy, especially with the world building and new creatures and plants that Srikant introduces to readers, but I also feel like there is a hint of magical realism in The Remedy. So much of it is realistic enough that I could imagine it happening, but the fantasy elements come into play to cancel it out.
There were some parts in the book that had me question Joss' parents - like her mother letting her go on a quest - but in the end, it really does make for an entertaining tale.
I would highly recommend this book to younger readers as I think it would entertain them and teach them to never give up on something because you never know just how hard you have to work to fix something.
When I started reading The Remedy, I was delighted that the book opened up with a scene with three sisters playing in the forest. It was adorable, and the banter reminded me of things that my sister and I say to one another when we become annoyed or angry. I was then very quickly shocked by how quickly Srikant introduces the problem in the novel - Bibi eating poisonous berries. But don't be too shocked because The Remedy takes readers on a roller coaster ride full of twists and turns!
The book itself is wonderfully written for children, especially those between the ages of ten and fourteen. I could imagine a younger version of me eating this book up. It is also full of a vast variety of vocabulary that I think any parent or teacher would want his or her students to learn in those years. I can see myself bringing this book into my classroom one day if I end up teaching middle school for the kids. I'm sure they'd love to borrow it.
The characters are delightful, especially the spitfire middle sister, Joss. She has to deal with guilt because she thinks it's her fault that Bibi is sick, but she doesn't take anything from anybody. She is quick on her feet and has enough wit to get her through any conversation. Her friends, Domino and Anton, are also a nice pair to bring along on an adventure. Together, the three of them balance one another out perfectly. Oh, and I can't forget the quirky Miss Gizelle! She's a hoot!
Like other adventure and fantasy books, the characters encounter some nasty characters - Krone and his hawk, Havoc. I'm sure that you can guess that the name of the bird means that these two can be pretty nasty.
I'm still a little skeptical of how I want to classify this book. It's very much a middle grade novel, but it is so much more than just that. There are hints of fantasy, especially with the world building and new creatures and plants that Srikant introduces to readers, but I also feel like there is a hint of magical realism in The Remedy. So much of it is realistic enough that I could imagine it happening, but the fantasy elements come into play to cancel it out.
There were some parts in the book that had me question Joss' parents - like her mother letting her go on a quest - but in the end, it really does make for an entertaining tale.
I would highly recommend this book to younger readers as I think it would entertain them and teach them to never give up on something because you never know just how hard you have to work to fix something.
March 18, 2014
I won this on a Goodreads giveaway and finished it on one sitting. This book is a prime example of how not to judge a book by its cover as it doesn't quite give you a hint that it is going to be a sweet exciting story with not so everyday creatures.
I loved how the story just picked up as soon as you start reading but you weren't confused as to what was going on. After Bibi has eaten the berries and the doctor tells them there is nothing that can be done, Joss goes out looking for Miss Gizelle which was the "healer" in their town until Dr. Hasbro came with his degrees and awed the townspeople. Soon the old ways were being forgotten which was quite a shame as it seems that the only way to save Bibi is in the hands of a creature that no one believes in anymore. I was able to relate to Joss in her need to be able to help save her sister even if it meant believing and searching for something that has not been seen in a long time.
One thing that I really appreciated in this story was how Joss parents were involved. There are so many stories where the parents are somewhere in the background or are mentioned only for the sake of being mentioned, but Mrs. Hall gave Joss permission to go up into the mountains if it's what Joss needed to do. And of course she would not be going up there alone! She had her friends to keep her company. I really liked Domino, he made me laugh out loud several times. As for Anton, I feel bad for him, he got the worst of it all!
The only thing that I disliked was how short their journey was. It felt clean cut and to the point. I'm not sure if it was because I'm so used to 300 plus page books where every turn is super dangerous and everything is one bad thing after another or if it's because I found the characters super enjoyable and wish I could have one of them rabbits as a pet, but I ended the story feeling like I wanted to read it again and maybe find that I missed some pages and would be longer the next time around!
I loved how the story just picked up as soon as you start reading but you weren't confused as to what was going on. After Bibi has eaten the berries and the doctor tells them there is nothing that can be done, Joss goes out looking for Miss Gizelle which was the "healer" in their town until Dr. Hasbro came with his degrees and awed the townspeople. Soon the old ways were being forgotten which was quite a shame as it seems that the only way to save Bibi is in the hands of a creature that no one believes in anymore. I was able to relate to Joss in her need to be able to help save her sister even if it meant believing and searching for something that has not been seen in a long time.
One thing that I really appreciated in this story was how Joss parents were involved. There are so many stories where the parents are somewhere in the background or are mentioned only for the sake of being mentioned, but Mrs. Hall gave Joss permission to go up into the mountains if it's what Joss needed to do. And of course she would not be going up there alone! She had her friends to keep her company. I really liked Domino, he made me laugh out loud several times. As for Anton, I feel bad for him, he got the worst of it all!
The only thing that I disliked was how short their journey was. It felt clean cut and to the point. I'm not sure if it was because I'm so used to 300 plus page books where every turn is super dangerous and everything is one bad thing after another or if it's because I found the characters super enjoyable and wish I could have one of them rabbits as a pet, but I ended the story feeling like I wanted to read it again and maybe find that I missed some pages and would be longer the next time around!
October 26, 2019
Excellent read, great for any age. Well written! Bravo!
I enjoyed every bit of this story. Recommending it to anyone who might enjoy a bit of escapism. I sure did.
I enjoyed every bit of this story. Recommending it to anyone who might enjoy a bit of escapism. I sure did.
September 27, 2014
Joss was the middle sister, with Bibi being the youngest and Adele being the oldest. young and naïve, Bibi accidentally swallowed a poisonous berry one day and was on the edge of dying. determined to find the remedy, Joss set out on a journey to find the jarrlock, a mysterious creature with the ability to create the remedy. With her friends, Domino and Anton, the trio set foot into the dangerous forests of Burkett Mountain with the hope of returning soon enough to save Bibi.
I received a free e-book from the author in exchange of a review. the book was an absolutely fast read. the simple and straightforward writing style made it an even delicious treat. I found myself so completely in love with its characters, from Joss to the jarrlock, Gladwin, to even the annoying Bibi! being a huge supernatural fan, I was especially intrigued with Gladwin’s character. his fluffiness was especially inviting. their adventure flew by in such a fast pace that there were completely no dull moment throughout the book. along with the actions that followed the trio wherever they went, the book was truly an awesome and captivating experience.
my review: here
I received a free e-book from the author in exchange of a review. the book was an absolutely fast read. the simple and straightforward writing style made it an even delicious treat. I found myself so completely in love with its characters, from Joss to the jarrlock, Gladwin, to even the annoying Bibi! being a huge supernatural fan, I was especially intrigued with Gladwin’s character. his fluffiness was especially inviting. their adventure flew by in such a fast pace that there were completely no dull moment throughout the book. along with the actions that followed the trio wherever they went, the book was truly an awesome and captivating experience.
my review: here
March 2, 2015
A fun filled and heartwarming YA novel about a young girl called Joss Hall and her two friends who journey's to a far off land and into the forests of the mystical mountain of 'Burkett'. They need to find a cure fast for Joss's younger sister called 'Bibi' whom is dying. A forbidden healer named 'Miss Gizelle' tells her that the only way for Bibi to survive is to venture out into the dark under belly of this dangerous forest to find a creature known as 'a Jarrlock' who supposedly has healing powers to save her.
The highlight in the gorgeous scenic back drop that flows a powerful storyline of fantasy, is pure imaginative bliss.
A couple of teetering laugh-out-loud moments in between restless nail-biting endeavors with very likable characters throughout.
Yes, 'The Remedy' has it all - Its pages bring twists and turns every which way with surprising elements of a storyline that conveys depth with realism.
So strap on your seat belt as it's going to be a stormy read as I'm sure you'll find it as entertaining as I did.
I was given a copy for evaluation and an unbiased review.
The highlight in the gorgeous scenic back drop that flows a powerful storyline of fantasy, is pure imaginative bliss.
A couple of teetering laugh-out-loud moments in between restless nail-biting endeavors with very likable characters throughout.
Yes, 'The Remedy' has it all - Its pages bring twists and turns every which way with surprising elements of a storyline that conveys depth with realism.
So strap on your seat belt as it's going to be a stormy read as I'm sure you'll find it as entertaining as I did.
I was given a copy for evaluation and an unbiased review.
February 8, 2015
Beautifully written novel for Grades 4th and up. I received this book directly from Susan Srikant, the author, through a Goodreads Giveaway. I loved this fantasy adventure story of Joss, the middle sister, who is on a mission to save her little sister from dying. Her little sister has eaten a poisonous berry; and Joss feels it is her fault. Joss, along with her two friends, Domino and Anton, go in search of Miss Gizelle, a mysterious medicine woman who lives in the forest. The exciting journey that these three young people take is full of mystery, danger, and magic. I was hooked beginning with the first chapter and could not put it down. I hope that Ms. Srikant writes more adventure stories with Joss, Domino, and Anton! I highly recommend this book to those students who enjoy reading fantasy and adventure stories.
September 18, 2015
When Joss’ sister, BiBi gets sick, it’s up to Joss to save her from the poison consuming her body. Unfortunately, there is no cure until Joss and her friends get wind of the ancient human friends, the Jarrlocks.
The book was fast read, so bad or good, it doesn’t take much time. When the story is bogged down by useless, non sequitur dialogue, it actually flows quite nicely. The big problem is she writes description and action scenes quite well, but the age group and the genre she’s writing for tend more toward strong and unique dialogue. If I chose to read like some of my students—skipping over large paragraphs to get to the juicy things characters have to say—I’d end up missing the most sparkling parts. In the end, a little more work, and it would’ve rock-solid.
The book was fast read, so bad or good, it doesn’t take much time. When the story is bogged down by useless, non sequitur dialogue, it actually flows quite nicely. The big problem is she writes description and action scenes quite well, but the age group and the genre she’s writing for tend more toward strong and unique dialogue. If I chose to read like some of my students—skipping over large paragraphs to get to the juicy things characters have to say—I’d end up missing the most sparkling parts. In the end, a little more work, and it would’ve rock-solid.
June 4, 2014
First I would like to say that I received this book through the GoodReads giveaway and want to thank author Susan Srikant . This book is a prime example of how not to judge a book by its cover. Once I started it, I couldn't put it down. I read it through in one sitting. Such a wonderful book. It has very like able characters and a fast moving plot. Although this book is really intended for a much younger audience then myself. So if you are looking for a fun adventure this book is a must read for you. I highly recommend this for adults as well as young adults. It is a wonderful read and I believe everyone who reads this book will enjoy it as much as I have.
November 24, 2014
This is a charming short read, focusing on sisters living out on the edge of the forest. In the opening scenes Bibi is poisoned, though she probably deserved it as she refused to listen to her elders and betters! (I secretly was glad, does that make me a bad person?)
The only way to save her is to travel out in order to find the remedy with more than a few things dogging their steps.
As I said before this was a quick read, only a hundred pages or so and I’d have liked more, because I grew quite attached to the characters who played well off each other. A good sharp story, a little like a modern fairy tale like quest.
The only way to save her is to travel out in order to find the remedy with more than a few things dogging their steps.
As I said before this was a quick read, only a hundred pages or so and I’d have liked more, because I grew quite attached to the characters who played well off each other. A good sharp story, a little like a modern fairy tale like quest.
March 28, 2016
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a wonderfully written fantasy story for preteens. Beautiful descriptions of all the interesting animals and plants and creatures that inhabit the landscape, great characters that were immediately engaging, particularly Joss, great relationships between the main characters, a well written and well paced story. While I assumed that things would turn out okay I really enjoyed the journey of getting there, lots of adventure along the way, and I loved how the group of kids worked together, supporting and encouraging one another. A really good read for kids.
This was a wonderfully written fantasy story for preteens. Beautiful descriptions of all the interesting animals and plants and creatures that inhabit the landscape, great characters that were immediately engaging, particularly Joss, great relationships between the main characters, a well written and well paced story. While I assumed that things would turn out okay I really enjoyed the journey of getting there, lots of adventure along the way, and I loved how the group of kids worked together, supporting and encouraging one another. A really good read for kids.
April 27, 2015
The worldbuilding in this story was clear without being infodumpy, and the world of the book was somewhere I would want to live.
I very much liked the protagonist- sulky, stubborn, bossy girls are highly underrepresented in literature. She was imperfect in a realistic way.
The narrative voice was quirky and enthralling with vivid bits of description. I also thought it was heartwarming how the parents were protective, yet still supportive in letting their daughter go on a quest. Reading this book quite improved my day, and I suggest you do the same, even if you are an adult.
I very much liked the protagonist- sulky, stubborn, bossy girls are highly underrepresented in literature. She was imperfect in a realistic way.
The narrative voice was quirky and enthralling with vivid bits of description. I also thought it was heartwarming how the parents were protective, yet still supportive in letting their daughter go on a quest. Reading this book quite improved my day, and I suggest you do the same, even if you are an adult.
April 11, 2018
Have you ever caught a glimpse of a jarrlock while you were walking in the woods or stumbled across some poisonous boskberries? Maybe you even snuck out at night to watch Miss Gizelle, the healer, throw colorful powders on a bonfire as she mixed one of her remedies.
If you are looking for a fun adventure, join Joss, Domino, and Anton as they hike through the magical forests of Burkett Mountain.
If you are looking for a fun adventure, join Joss, Domino, and Anton as they hike through the magical forests of Burkett Mountain.
March 23, 2014
I won this book from the Goodreads Giveaway. What a great book! Once I started it, I couldn't put it down. It has very likeable characters and a fast moving plot. Even though this is intended for a younger audience, I highly recommend this for adults as well. I am looking forward to sharing this book with my 10 year old son.
April 30, 2016
GAB This is an excellent novel for tweens and teens. The characters are empathetic and colorful, the story line is tight and the details are engaging. Susan Srikant will go on my list of authors to watch for.
March 24, 2014
Very good and intriguing!!! done in 2 days!!!
November 3, 2015
For full review please go to: 5girlsbookreviews.blogspot.com, Twitter @camartinez, Facebook "5 Girls Book Reviews"
REVIEW BY: Arianna, age 12 years, 11 months
MAY CONTAIN SPOILER:
This book was pretty good!
My favorite character is Domino because he makes Joss feel good and always breaks the tension. My favorite part is when they meet Galdwin because he is super nice and not mean and grumpy like Gruntle.
REVIEW BY: Arianna, age 12 years, 11 months
MAY CONTAIN SPOILER:
This book was pretty good!
My favorite character is Domino because he makes Joss feel good and always breaks the tension. My favorite part is when they meet Galdwin because he is super nice and not mean and grumpy like Gruntle.
May 1, 2014
Won this in a goodreads giveaway :)
The plot of the story was cute and it did move quickly. I did feel the characters could have been better developed. I found it difficult to care for any of them. Kids would enjoy this book because it does move quickly and the creatures are magical!
The plot of the story was cute and it did move quickly. I did feel the characters could have been better developed. I found it difficult to care for any of them. Kids would enjoy this book because it does move quickly and the creatures are magical!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews