Book Review: The Space Between by Kiki Thorpe, Jana Christy

The Space Between is the second book in the Disney Never Girls series written by Kiki Thorpe and illustrated by Jana Christy. The series is marketed to ages six through ten, although readers outside that range might enjoy the story as well. In the first book Kate, Mia, Lainey, and Gabby had just gotten used to the idea of staying in Pixie Hollow until the island moved again and brought them close to home so that they could return.

In The Space Between Lainey discovers her love of and skill for working with animals and is fully enjoying her time with the fairies, finally finding something that sets her apart from everyone else. But, the island is now in position and it is time to go home, and it is possibly their only chance.  However, strange things start happening after their return home, a possible splinter or leak between worlds which is putting animals and fairies alike in harms way.

The Space Between mainly deals with Lainey and her self discovery. She has never had much faith in her own abilities or qualities. She blossoms in Pixie Hollow, and explores what makes her happy, what she has talent in, and why her own faith in herself is more important than how she thinks others see her. I like that the book, and the series as a whole, seems to be stressing that everyone is a unique person and is special without making it feel like an after school special. It teaches while still being a fun adventure, rather than clubbing readers over the head with a message.

I recommend The Space Between to readers that read and enjoyed In a Blink, the first book in the series. Other readers that enjoy reading about childhood adventures, and friendly fairies, will also enjoy the series. Since this book focuses mainly on one girl it is not absolutely necessary to go back and read In a Blink, but it would help establish how the girls arrived in Never Land, and the dynamics of their friendships.