“That is the strangest thing about the world: how it looks so different from every point of view.”
Liesl is mourning the loss of her father while she is locked up in the attic by her stepmother. She's all alone until a ghost, Po, comes to visit her. Liesl can't quite figure out what Po is, but she is happy to have the company. Po has a message from Liesl's father which will force her out of the attic and back to her childhood home in order to reach the willow tree. Meanwhile, Will works for an apprentice, but he often stops across from the house with the girl in the attic watching her and wondering about her. He's on an important mission to deliver powerful magic when he takes a chance stopping by the house to catch a glimpse of the girl. Will has a mix-up and the box can't be delivered, but through a series of strange happenings Liesl and Po cross paths with Will and their journey begins together. Of course, an angered alchemist and a furious stepmother are just two of the forces trying to stop the trio from reaching their destination. Will Liesl reach the willow? What has happened to the box with powerful magic in it? You will have to read this story to see how it all works out!
Liesl and Po is the first book I have read by Lauren Oliver. I was interested the first time I saw the cover (which looks different from the one seen here). I really enjoyed the whimsical illustrations that accompanied the text. I felt sorry for Liesl because her stepmother treats her so poorly, and I could imagine how much she misses her dad. I was definitely rooting for Liesl, Po, and Will because the grownups in the story were all pretty rotten. This is a great story for kids and adults who like fairy tales and stories that involve dark characters. I like when stories are more intertwined than you realize at first, so that aspect of the story added extra appeal. I have had my own experience with a willow tree, so I was a little nervous when I realized it would have a big role in this book. Luckily, not all willows have the same history as the one at the Begonia House. I would recommend this book to anyone in 4th grade and up who isn't afraid of a little spookiness in their stories. Watching the trailer really brings the words to life and I love the song that is used. If you haven't seen it- make sure to check it out!
Has anyone else read
Liesl and Po? Have you read another book by Lauren Oliver? We'd love to hear your thoughts!
Happy Reading-
~L
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