Reviews

https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/artesia

Artesia by Kevin Karr is a magical children’s fantasy where siblings Lucas and Lucy go on an unexpected adventure. When they stumble upon a mystical painting by Leonardo Da Vinci during a school museum trip, they are transported to a fantastical realm filled with dragons, living art, and powerful sorcerers. With the help of a green owl named Wholio and Leonardo’s old assistant, Salai, they discover they are destined to help a guardian fight an evil queen and her army. As they train in the art of sorcery, Lucas and Lucy must find the strength to help win the battle and return home.

Author Kevin Karr knows how to capture the enthusiasm and zest for adventure that kids have, and that energy is evident on every page. This imaginative world is filled with vivid, creative fantasy elements that put new twists on classic ideas. Lucas and Lucy make a great pair to start this adventure together, and their sibling bond adds emotional depth and relatability to the plot. Young readers can immediately see the love and support they have for each other but also their differences and how they can help one another in different ways. I also really liked the concept of living art and magical paintings as this is a fresh and whimsical twist that I think will make youngsters pay a lot more attention to the art world. The pacing was also great for young attention spans, thanks to its fast-paced, action-filled narrative. This a read that keeps children engaged from start to finish, no matter their usual reading level. Overall, Artesia is a highly recommended fantasy to be read both at home and in the classroom.