This is a very interesting fantasy book for kids that flips expectations. I think it would be great for those who like magic, fairytales, and school stories that have twists and delve into what is truly good or evil.

It has also been made into a big movie, but I actually prefer the book because the movie changes a lot and I think the book’s story is even better than the movie. In The School for Good and Evil there’s two schools; one for the children of heroes in myths and fairytales, like King Arthur, and one for the children of villains from fairytales, like the old witch from Hansel and Gretel.

The two main characters are Sophie and Agatha. Sophie lives in Gavaldon, an old-fashioned town, like a classic fairytale town. She isn’t the child of a fairytale character, but is a normal human, a reader. But every four years two non-fairytale children are plucked from Gavaldon and taken to the School for Good and Evil. Sophie is taken along with Agatha. People think Sophie will go to the School for Good because she looks like a princess, and Agatha the School for Evil because she looks like a witch.

But that’s not what happens. Both Sophie and Agatha are put into situations they don’t expect, and they have to work out how they can escape. I like this book because it is fun, imaginative, and a twist on what we would expect from stories. It’s also the start of a series that I really like. I’ve read three, and I am keen to read the rest.

Reviewed by Maddie, Year 6, Streatham & Clapham Girls Prep School, London

Age Guide 9+

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Soman Chainani’s debut series, ‘THE SCHOOL FOR GOOD & EVIL’, has sold over 4.5 million copies, been translated into 35 languages across six continents, and has been adapted into a major motion picture from Netflix that debuted at #1 in over 80 countries.

His book of retold fairytales, BEASTS & BEAUTY, also debuted on the New York Times Bestseller List and is slated to be a limited television series from Sony 3000.

EverNever World, his decade-long franchise of fairy tales and fantasy, continues to expand. Together, these books have been on the New York Times Bestseller List for 50 weeks.

In 2026, Soman unveils a brand new universe with YOUNG WORLD, a global political thriller.

In his career, Soman has visited more than 800 schools around the world, where he continues to share his secret with students of all ages: that reading is the path to a better life.

Visit Soman Chainani’s website