A magical weatherbox! Wow! Wouldn't that be nifty to have.  As a child, I've always been infatuated with the changes of weather and especially the changes of cloud patterns. From cumulus to stratus to cirrus, I was always intrigue by how that happens.  Wouldn't I love to read a story about a mystical figure or box that handles it all. That is what "The Maloney's Magical Weatherbox" by Nigel Quinlan is all about.  It is about a family who inherits the job of taking care of the changes in season and an evil power that wants to take over.  A child's fantasy come true or is it?

The premise is great and any child, boy or girl will be fascinated by this story, and how a couple of kids, themselves will be there to save the day, or try to.  However, it was a very slow start. It would take about a few more chapters to get the momentum going to truly appreciate and feel when the adventure of this story begins.   I understand there needs a certain amount of explanation of background and meaning of the Weatherman, the Weatherbox, Shieldmans...etc.  So that I can understand.  Then there's the changing of first person narrative throughout the book between Neil and Liz, which gets confusing even through to the end.  Even for the slow start and narration confusions, I still would recommend this book to the recommended middle grades age group.  The latter half of the story is energetic, intense and full of action for children, that will be great for an imaginative child.  Perfect for those interested in fantasy and action, and a bonus for kids interested in weather activities.

NOTE:  I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from the publisher, Roaring Brook Press division of Macmillan Children's Publishing Group through Net Galley for an honest review. Macmillan Children's Publishing Group