The Candy Shop War by Brandon Mull has been positively received for its imaginative and adventurous plot, captivating younger readers with magical elements and engaging characters. Critics highlight the book's intriguing premise involving magical candy but note that it sometimes relies on familiar tropes and lacks depth in character development.

Readers who enjoy fast-paced fantasy adventures with elements of magic and mystery will relish The Candy Shop War by Brandon Mull. Fans of Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl will particularly appreciate the novel's inventive plot, young protagonists, and whimsical, yet thrilling, escapades.

The Candy Shop War by Brandon Mull follows ten-year-old Nate, who moves to Colson, California, and befriends Summer, Trevor, and Pigeon. They become captivated by Mrs. White's candy shop, where magical sweets grant them temporary superpowers. As they complete increasingly dangerous tasks for her, they encounter rival magicians and dark forces threatening their town, embarking on a quest to prevent these dangers and restore peace.

Adventurous / Fantastical / Playful / Mysterious / Exciting

- The Candy Shop War features a unique blend of magic and sweets, where candies grant the children who eat them temporary supernatural abilities.
- The author, Brandon Mull, has created interactive promotions for the series, including candy-themed puzzles and games that enhance the reader’s connection to the story.
- In addition to its playful themes, The Candy Shop War explores deeper concepts such as trust and friendship, skillfully weaving them into the magical narrative.

**Nate**  
A 10-year-old boy who is new to Colson, California, and becomes a part of the Blue Falcons club. He is known for standing up to bullies and taking risks.

**Summer**  
The only female member of the Blue Falcons who is known for her level-headedness. She becomes crucial in battles with her use of special candies.

**Pigeon**  
A polite and agreeable member of the Blue Falcons who is often targeted by bullies. He has a talent for getting information and communicating with animals.

**Trevor**  
A risk-taking member of the Blue Falcons who assists Nate on various adventures. At one point, he becomes trapped in the mirror world.

**Mrs. Belinda White**  
The elderly owner of a new candy shop in Colson who has mysterious motives. She is skilled in magic and seeks power.

**Sebastian Stott**  
The ice cream truck driver who is secretly a powerful magician. He has lived for centuries and aids the protagonists in critical moments.

**John Dart**  
A mysterious figure who works as an enforcer for the magical Council. He tracks down magicians who misuse their power.

**Miss Doulin**  
The strict fifth-grade teacher who becomes involved with the magical happenings. Her strict nature shifts during the story due to unforeseen circumstances.

**Gary Haag**  
The school custodian who secretly holds the key to the Fountain of Youth. He presents as mild-mannered but holds an important secret.

Brandon Mull

Middle grade

Novel

The Candy Shop War

Fiction

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Prologue-Chapter 5

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Chapters 6-10

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Chapters 11-15

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Chapter 16-Epilogue

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