A Brush with Magic

A 2024 Freeman Book Awards for Children’s and Young Adult Literature on East and Southeast Asia “Of Note” Title

“Fantastical elements are seamlessly woven into this engaging, entertaining story. . . . A universal coming-of-age tale becomes extraordinary through an encounter with Korean folk magic.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred review

“Painted in vivid brushstrokes of whimsy, magic, and exhilarating adventures, A Brush with Magic will absolutely enchant readers.”—Julie Abe, author of the Eva Evergreen and Tessa Miyata series

“Vividly painted, emotionally resonant, and lots of fun, A Brush with Magic offers a captivating tour of fantasy and folklore alongside real growing pains.”—Anna Meriano, author of Love Sugar Magic

Praise for Flora Ahn and A Spoonful of Time
A 2024 CBC Children’s Favorites Winner, Sixth to Eighth Grade
A 2024 CBC Teacher Favorites Winner, Sixth to Eighth Grade
One of School Library Journal’s Best Middle Grade Books of 2023
A 2024–25 Pennsylvania Young Reader’s Choice Award Nominee

“Affectionately wrought….evocative descriptions of food and its link to memory carry this light speculative read, which offers up a sweet intergenerational relationship that connects past and present.”—Publishers Weekly

“Beautifully written…the descriptions of the dishes are salivating enough that readers might appreciate the ability to recreate them at home. A warm and satisfying intergenerational story.”—Booklist

“Full of twists, this middle-grade story is a heartwarming mix of food and family.”—Kirkus Reviews

“A charming story filled with recipes.”—School Library Journal

“Readers will love the Korean culture and food references….This is a great time-travel adventure read.”—Book Riot

“This wonderful book combines food and family into a perfectly seasoned story.”—Lelia Nebeker for Northern Virginia Magazine

“Seasoned with humor and a rich setting, A Spoonful of Time is an enchanting novel about family secrets, friendships, loss, and food that transports us to the past. Warning: don’t read while hungry!”—Lynne Kelly, author of Song For a Whale

“A vividly written tale that is easy to love, Flora Ahn’s novel is intricate, enchanting, and absolutely brimming with life. This is a surprising and timeless story, with the perfect mix of sweetness, wonder, and depth.”—Corey Ann Haydu, author of Eventown and One Jar of Magic