It's just pure joy, honestly. I read this book when I was in a bit of a reading slump and it gave me all the warm and fuzzy feels. But more than that, it has phenomenal worldbuilding and a complex magic system all while being a middle grade fantasy. The finesse required to do that is just... chef's kiss. Barclay is so stubborn, yet secretly enthused with this magical world he stumbles into, and we're blessed with so many interesting side characters. While I predicted most of the plot for this book, there were still some surprises thrown in! I'm so happy that this is a series and can't wait to read more in this universe.