The Wishing Game – A Novel of Hope, Dreams, and the Power of Books

In “The Wishing Game”, Meg Shaffer crafts a captivating tale about the enduring impact of childhood stories and the courage to pursue one’s dreams.

Lucy Hart, a 26-year-old teacher’s aide, has known the pain of growing up without loving parents. Her solace came from the enchanting “Clock Island” series by the reclusive author Jack Masterson. Now, Lucy shares this love of reading with her students, especially seven-year-old Christopher Lamb, an orphan longing for a family. Lucy dreams of adopting Christopher, but financial constraints make this seem impossible.

Just as hope begins to fade, Jack Masterson announces a new book and a unique contest on his private Clock Island. Lucy is among four lucky contestants invited to compete for the sole copy of this coveted manuscript. Winning could provide Lucy with the means to adopt Christopher and change both their lives.

However, the path to victory is fraught with challenges, including cunning competitors, fervent book collectors, and the enigmatic illustrator Hugo Reese. As the contest unfolds, Lucy discovers that the journey may hold more significance than the prize itself.

“The Wishing Game” is a tribute to the magic of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary adventures begin with a simple wish.