The Marvellers by Dhonielle Clayton is praised for its imaginative world-building and diverse characters. Critics appreciate the rich details and inclusive cast, noting these as standout features. However, some reviews mention pacing issues and predictability in the plot. Overall, it's seen as a strong entry in middle-grade fantasy, particularly for its creativity and representation.

Readers who enjoy Harry Potter or Percy Jackson will love The Marvellers by Dhonielle Clayton. This book is perfect for middle-grade readers fascinated by magical worlds, diverse characters, and adventure-filled plots. It offers a fresh take on the fantasy genre with relatable themes and enchanting storytelling.

The Marvellers by Dhonielle Clayton follows 11-year-old Ella Durand, the first Conjuror student at the elite Arcanum Training Institute, as she overcomes prejudice and seeks to prove herself while uncovering her magical gifts. Alongside her friends, Jason and Brigit, Ella navigates challenges and uncovers secrets about the school, all while evading an escaped rebel with sinister plans. The book addresses themes of segregation, identity, and integration.

Fantastical / Adventurous / Inspirational

- The Marvellers by Dhonielle Clayton is notable for being the author's first middle-grade novel, expanding her repertoire beyond the young adult genre. 
- Dhonielle Clayton, co-founder of the non-profit organization We Need Diverse Books, continues her mission of promoting diversity in literature by weaving a multicultural fantasy world in The Marvellers.
- The book has been optioned for a live-action television adaptation by the Disney Channel, highlighting its popularity and broad appeal.

**Ella Durand**  
An 11-year-old African American girl who comes from a magical community called Conjurors and becomes the first of her kind to attend the Marveller Arcanum Training Institute in the sky.

**Brigit Ebsen**  
Ella’s surly, blond roommate at the Arcanum who was raised without knowledge of her magical heritage, contributing to her initial standoffish behavior.

**Jason Eugene**  
A student at the academy from a large Jamaican family, who befriends Ella and possesses the Paragon of Sound, enabling him to speak to animals and magical creatures.

**Gia Trivelino**  
The novel’s villain, capable of altering her appearance and stepping through portals, with a vendetta against the Marvellers.

**Masterji Thakur**  
Ella’s mentor and favorite teacher at the Arcanum who advocates for tolerance and diversity within the school community.

**Sebastien Durand**  
Ella’s father, a High Walker with the ability to enter the Underworld, who supports Ella’s integration into the Marveller world.

**Aubrielle Durand**  
Ella’s mother, a Conjuror who is protective of Ella due to her own experiences and the loss of her twin sister.

**Sera Baptiste**  
Ella’s aunt and a new faculty member at the Arcanum teaching the Conjure Arts, who supports Ella with guidance.

**Celeste Baptiste**  
Aubrielle’s missing twin, known for her curiosity about the sky cities and revealed later in the novel.

**Headmarveller Rivera**  
One of the administrators at the Arcanum who proactively assists Ella in overcoming integration challenges.

**Headmarveller MacDonald**  
Co-administrator of the Arcanum, depicted as sympathetic to Ella but committed to procedural fairness.

**Dean Nabokova**  
The Dean of Discipline who is wary of Ella due to implicit bias against Conjurors, overseeing student discipline.

**Dr. Winchester**  
An elderly professor known for divination studies who frequently targets Ella for small infractions.

**Clare Lumen**  
One of Ella’s original roommates who leads a clique of mean girls, exhibiting prejudice against integration.

**Winnie Durand**  
Ella’s younger sister, shown briefly to share the family Conjuring heritage, with potential to attend the Arcanum later.

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