Neil Patrick Harris's The Magic Misfits, illustrated by Lissy Marlin, is widely praised for its engaging story, captivating illustrations, and positive messages of friendship and self-discovery. However, some critics feel the plot is somewhat predictable and the pacing uneven. Overall, it is celebrated for appealing to young readers and encouraging inclusivity and teamwork.

Readers who would enjoy The Magic Misfits by Neil Patrick Harris and illustrated by Lissy Marlin are likely fans of middle-grade adventure and fantasy. They often appreciate the whimsical charm found in books like Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling or A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket.

The Magic Misfits by Neil Patrick Harris follows young magician Carter Locke, who runs away from his criminal guardian, Uncle Sly, and finds himself in the town of Mineral Wells. There, he discovers a magical shop and befriends a group of young magicians. Together, they work to thwart the schemes of the villainous carnival owner, B. B. Bosso, while Carter learns about identity, courage, and the true meaning of family. The book contains descriptions of child abuse and neglect.

Playful / Adventurous / Fantastical / Heartwarming / Humorous

**Carter Locke**  
A young runaway skilled in legerdemain who arrives in Mineral Wells hiding from his past, while trying to find a place to belong and practice magic on his own terms.

**Uncle Sly**  
Carter's corrupt guardian, who uses sleight-of-hand tricks for con artistry, creating a life of instability and manipulation for Carter.

**Dante Vernon**  
A magician and owner of a magic shop in Mineral Wells, who becomes a mentor and father figure to Carter, teaching him the positive uses of magic.

**Leila Vernon**  
Dante Vernon's adopted daughter and a spirited escape artist, who quickly befriends Carter and becomes his ally in Mineral Wells.

**B. B. Bosso**  
The antagonist and owner of a carnival that serves as a front for criminal activities, presenting a challenge to the children with his greedy and deceitful operations.

Neil Patrick Harris

Illustr. Lissy Marlin

Middle grade

Novel

The Magic Misfits

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Magic Misfits reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Magic Misfits | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Magic Misfits and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Magic Misfits Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Magic Misfits Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 5

The Magic Misfits Prologue-Chapter 5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-13

The Magic Misfits Chapters 6-13 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 14-Epilogue

The Magic Misfits Chapter 14-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

The Magic Misfits Character Analysis

theme

Themes

The Magic Misfits Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Magic Misfits Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

The Magic Misfits Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The Magic Misfits Essay Topics

The Magic Misfits

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Magic Misfits?

Reading Age

Book Details