Description

The Most Spectacular Traveling Box is a middle-grade historical fantasy ideal for classroom libraries, school curricula, and independent reading programs for students ages 8–12.

Set in 1935 during the Great Depression, the novel follows Sophie Mae, a resilient young girl living alone in Dust Bowl–era Oklahoma after the loss of her grandmother. When Sophie receives a mysterious traveling box, she is transported to Gardenia, an enchanted estate in Minnesota where magic exists alongside deep emotional truths.

As Sophie explores this magical world—where invisibility is common, a talking circus elephant offers wisdom, and a boy can fly—she is guided by the alchemist George the Great Cain. Through her journey, Sophie learns that magic is not merely escapism, but a tool for survival, growth, and courage. At the same time, she must grapple with trust, ethical choices, and the hidden costs of power.

This novel blends historical fiction and fantasy to support cross-curricular learning, making it a strong companion text for studies of:

• The Great Depression and Dust Bowl
• Grief, resilience, and emotional literacy
• Ethical decision-making and personal responsibility
• Found family and mentorship
• Magical realism and imaginative world-building

With rich characters, accessible language, and vivid historical context, The Most Spectacular Traveling Box invites discussion, reflection, and creative response. It is well-suited for read-alouds, literature circles, book clubs, and independent reading, and pairs naturally with historical units and social-emotional learning objectives.

A compelling choice for educators and librarians seeking a heartfelt, imaginative novel that encourages empathy, critical thinking, and hope.

Reviews

Kirkus Review

“This mashup of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and The Wizard of Oz follows a desperate girl’s escapades… A fun, inventive… middle-grade novel.⁣”

BookBub

“The Most Spectacular Travelling Box should be an addition on everyone’s rec list for the summer. Perfect for all ages to enjoy and get lost in the magical journey of each character. It will take you on an epic adventure readers will remember for years to come.⁣”

Amazon Review

“I finished this book in record time because I fell in love with all the characters and couldn’t wait to see what tomorrow would bring.”

Retailers & Links

• Amazon
• Barnes & Noble

Meta Data

• ASIN: 1735907200
• Publisher: Two Turkey Publishing, LLC
• Publication date: October 5, 2020
• Pages: 224
• Genre: Historical Fantasy
• ISBN: 978-1735907208
• Formats: eBook, Paperback, Hardcover
• Language: English
• Item Weight: 7.5 ounces
• Reading age: 9-12 years
• Dimensions: 5.25 x 0.56 x 8 inches