Wicked, Great and Small

I started listening to *Wicked, Great and Small* fully expecting another forgettable middle-grade fantasy, but Will Taylor’s script hooked me within minutes. The premise—what happens when a child’s magic spirals into chaos—isn’t new, but the execution is. Ava’s frustration with adult-imposed rules feels earned, and her dynamic with Henry is the heart of the story. The giantization scene is a masterclass in pacing; the narrator’s voice shifts from playful to breathless panic just in time to sell the absurdity and stakes. That said, the supporting cast occasionally fades into the background, which dampens some of the emotional payoff when Ava’s choices impact others. The narration itself is serviceable but not show-stopping—it’s the script that carries the audiobook, with snappy dialogue and a plot that zigs when you expect it to zag. My niece (a die-hard fantasy fan) was utterly captivated, and I’ll admit I laughed out loud more than once. If your kid craves magic with bite, this is a solid pick.