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The Key To Rondo (Rondo #1)
First published 2008 · 352 pages
A magical music box unlocks a fast-paced portal adventure where broken rules lead to thrilling, witch-battling consequences.
What it feels like
Reading this book feels like winding up a delicate, mysterious antique and watching it suddenly explode into vibrant, dangerous life. It is a brisk, wondrous adventure that thrives on the classic portal fantasy trope of ordinary objects hiding extraordinary worlds. The mood shifts rapidly from the quiet tension of strict rules and clashing cousins to the urgent, high-stakes atmosphere of a magical rescue mission. The prose is accessible and action-oriented, perfectly tuned for younger readers who want to be swept away by magic, witches, and the thrill of stepping into the unknown. It will delight anyone who loves the idea of hidden realms, the consequences of breaking the rules, and the reluctant heroism required to set things right.
- Mood
- magical
- suspenseful
- wondrous
- Tone
- earnest
- adventurous
- urgent
- Pace
- brisk
- Themes
- rule-breaking and consequences · family dynamics · hidden magical worlds · stepping up to responsibility
- The writing
- Accessible and action-oriented, designed to pull younger readers swiftly into a world of unfolding magic.
- The arc
- From cautious obedience and familial friction to a thrilling, high-stakes magical rescue mission.
- Who it's for
- Young readers who love portal fantasies, magical artifacts, and fast-paced adventures with family dynamics.
Content notes
- witches
- rule-breaking
About the book
A new realm of magic from Emily Rodda, the author of the Deltora books. There are three rules to the old painted, music box: Wind the box three times only. Never shut the box when the music is playing. Never move the box before the music stops.
Leo wouldn't dream of breaking these rules, but does his stubborn cousin Mimi listen? She winds the box four times -- and suddenly the paintings on its side come to life and a powerful witch is released. Now its up to Leo and Mimi to stop the witch, if only they can find the key to the music box -- and the magical world it controls.
Description from Open Library.
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