Magic Street

by Orson Scott Card
Magic Street cover
Good Books rating 2.17
Fantasy
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  • ID: 6438
  • Added: 2025-11-16
  • Updated: 2025-11-16
  • ISBN: 9780345416896
  • Publisher: Random House LLC
  • Published: 2005-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Magic Street follows the life of Mack Street, a teenager who experiences strange spells where he freezes and stares off into space. Unbeknownst to those around him, Mack possesses an extraordinary ability: he can see into other people's dreams. This unique talent sets him apart and brings a sense of wonder and intrigue to his otherwise ordinary life. /n/n As Mack navigates the complexities of adolescence, his ability to glimpse into the dreams of others opens up a world of possibilities and challenges. The story explores the boundaries between reality and imagination, as Mack learns to harness his gift and understand its true significance.

Reviews
SFF180 · 2025-11-16
awful 0.50

The reviewer found the book to be eye-rollingly awful, with a plot and characters that left them muttering in disbelief.

The reviewer had a very negative experience with Magic Street, describing it as eye-rollingly awful. They found the plot to be nonsensical and the characters to be poorly developed, leading to a frustrating reading experience. The reviewer expressed disbelief at the quality of the writing and the overall execution of the story. They felt that the book was a significant disappointment and not worth the time.

Quick quotes

    This book is literally eye-rollingly awful.

    It will likely leave most readers rubbing their temples and muttering 'I can't believe I'm reading this!' or 'Is this really happening?'

    The plot is nonsensical, and the characters are poorly developed.

Postcards from Purgatory · 2017-01-04
disappointing 1.50

The reviewer found the book disappointing, with a lack of depth in the characters and plot. They struggled to connect with the story despite its unique setting.

The reviewer initially thought reading this book would be a great idea, especially given the unique setting of a modern suburban fantasy. However, they found the characters and plot to be lacking in depth, making it difficult to connect with the story. The reviewer felt that the book did not live up to their expectations, despite the intriguing premise of a gateway to fairyland in an African-American neighborhood in Los Angeles. Overall, they were left feeling disappointed and unable to fully engage with the narrative.

Quick quotes

    Reading this book last week sounded like such a great idea at the time.

    I was away at a writing residency, living by myself in a tiny cottage in the woods.

    I struggled to connect with the characters and the plot felt thin.

SciFiChick · 2006-09-19
brilliant 4.50

The reviewer praises Orson Scott Card's writing, highlighting his brilliant characterizations and engaging narrative.

The reviewer is a fan of Orson Scott Card and found Magic Street to be another excellent example of his writing. They appreciate his ability to create compelling characters and weave an engaging narrative. The reviewer also notes that Card's descriptions of Baldwin Hills and Los Angeles add a rich layer to the story. Overall, they highly recommend the book to fans of Card's work and fantasy in general.

Quick quotes

    Magic Street, by Orson Scott Card, just confirms what a brilliant writer he is.

    I have read several series by Card: the Homecoming saga, the Tales of Alvin Maker, and the Women of Genesis series.

    Card's characterizations are always a joy to read, and his narrative and description demonstrate why he is such a durable writer, enjoyed by so many people.

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