The best-friend-cousins at 861/2 Twenty-Third Avenue are back for a party! With adorable illustrations and short, easy-to-read chapters, this second installment in the Hand-Me-Down Magic series is perfect for fans of Ivy and Bean and Dory Fantasmagory.

Alma’s birthday gift for Del was supposed to be delightful and daring-just like Del. Her present was a magical crystal ball, and it worked, too! All of Del’s predictions for her party guests were coming true. But when Alma looks into the ball to read Del’s future, she sees something frightening.

Del is certain Alma has given her a bad luck fortune and that it will spell DISASTER for her. Suddenly, Del doesn’t feel like the brave cousin anymore. Which means it’s up to Alma to help Del face her fear-and her crystal ball fortune-with her best-friend-cousin right by her side.

Corey Ann Haydu’s writing is filled with tender moments, wholesome humor, and magical detail-reminiscent of literary icons like Beverly Clearly, Marla Frazee, and Katherine Applegate. This chapter book series is pitch perfect for kids reading at this young level. And Luisa Uribe’s stunning black-and-white illustrations capture the warmth and unique personality of each character.

Enjoy the whole series:

Hand-Me-Down Magic #1: Stoop Sale Treasure Hand-Me-Down Magic #2: Crystal Ball Fortunes Hand-Me-Down Magic #3: Perfect Patchwork Purse Hand-Me-Down Magic #4: Mysterious Tea Set