Review: Eyes Like Stars (Theatre Illuminata, Act I) by Lisa Mantchev
It took me a long time to read this book. I failed at ordering it three times. The UPS man gave it to someone else once. I bought at Barnes and Noble. Have no clue where it ran away to. After seeing the cover art for book two I tracked down a copy at the library and devoured the book.
I had some trouble in the beginning. I felt like I came in at the middle of the book and was racing to catch up. I asked if any other readers had encountered this issue. I got loads of replies telling me it makes sense keep going. Not that I was planning not to finish it. I finish every book. So I did keep going. Everyone was right. It fits perfectly with the ending of the book and because of the fun way it is written the ending will be a complete surprise for you. In a good way.
We follow Bertie through her coming of age. She grew up in a theatre in London and is facing expulsion from the only home she has ever known. She can’t seem to stay out of trouble. Causing an Earthquake or firing a cannon onto the stage and ruining props. The managers have finally had enough of her.
Bertie has one last ditch effort to stay in her home. She takes a stab at directing Hamlet set in Egypt but the characters keep forgetting their lines with the new set and costumes. She was just about to give up when the book of play’s is stolen and her last four days are spent trying to right that wrong instead of practicing for her director debut.
Eyes Like Stars is a breath of unique fresh air that is desperately needed in the stale YA air these days. Bertie learns a lot about herself and others. I love the ending and I cannot wait to see where the next book goes! The fairies that hover around Bertie’s blue tresses are absolutely hilarious. Pastry eating rude little fellows. If you are like me and having picked this up yet it’s not too late! I suggest you reading it. If you have let me know what you think. I always enjoy others opinion and remember you can add your star rating here at the top of the post!
