Frowns and Gowns

The Mischief #5

by Amanda M. Thrasher

Embark on a Magical Adventure with Lilly, Boris, and Jack! Get ready to join Lilly, Boris, and Jack on an unforgettable journey filled with excitement, laughter, and a touch of mayhem. Brace yourself for a whirlwind of mishaps as these three fairies plan a magnificent magical ball, only to encounter an unforeseen disaster!Experience the magic of friendship with Lilly, the quick-witted and resourceful fairy, Boris, the mischievous fairy with a heart of gold, and Jack, the troublemaker with a curious, adventurous spirit on their latest adventure. Throughout, Lilly, Boris, and Jack teach the true meaning of friendship and teamwork. Together with their friends, they'll overcome challenges, learn valuable lessons, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Genres: Fantasy, Childrens

236 pages, Hardcover

Published September 12, 2023

About the author

Amanda M. Thrasher is an international award-winning author. She’s a multiple Gold Recipient of The Mom’s Choice Awards® (MCA), earning the award in multiple categories, including Young Adult, General Fiction, and Children’s Chapter Books. She’s a multiple Gold Medal and Bronze winner of the Readers’ Favorite International Book awards and was awarded a New Apple Literary Award.

Amanda was contracted to write a graphic novel for the Driving on the Right Side of the Road Program. The publication, What If...A Story of Shattered Lives is part of the Driving on the Right Side of the Road (DRSR) program, developed by the Law-Related Education Department of the State Bar of Texas Law Focused Education, Inc., and the Texas Municipal Courts Education Center with funding from the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals and the Texas Department of Transportation. The purpose of the program is to offer a preventive educational program to encourage responsible decision-making when it comes to obeying traffic laws and to following safe practices. The graphic novel titled What If … A Story of Shattered Lives was adapted into a reader’s theater for as few as five speakers or as many as twenty-six and remains part of the DRSR program.

CAPTAIN FIN was based on a screenplay by Kevin James O’Neill. Amanda was contracted to adapt the screenplay into a novel for Kevin. Kevin is a director, actor, and producer. CAPTAIN FIN the novel won a Readers’ Favorite International Gold Book Award and was the Gold Recipient of The Mom’s Choice Awards®.

Amanda shares her writing experience with others through school visits, trade conferences, and writing workshops.

Reviews

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frowns and Gowns is a story about several fairy friends involved in preparations for their first-ever fairy ball! The story is simple, but magical and full of fun fantasy aspects. The characters are so cute and fun, plus delightfully youthful due to their age and fairy natures. However, they're also super relatable in their excitement and hesitations about the dance.

This book is about friendship, trials of friendship, expectations from elders, and putting your best wing forward. From food prep to ball gowns, Frowns and Gowns brings together magic and mayhem. The boys aren't nearly as excited about the ball and its preparations compared to the girls. Thankfully, there's plenty of time to learn some good lessons and be better friends with some guidance.

Overall I liked the magic this story has, as well as its simplicity. It's very straightforward, easy to read, and very fun. It is a great story for young readers who are ready to dabble into slightly longer chapter books that aren't too serious. It's lengthier than some of the other juvenile chapter books I've read about fairies, but it also isn't too text-heavy either. It's light-hearted and quick-paced.

[Karen Siddall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet and whimsical children’s chapter book featuring young fairies.

Frowns and Gowns is the fifth book in author Amanda M. Thrasher’s cute Mischief series, in which fairy children learn to become part of their community in the mushroom patch. With relatable characters working together to make their first official fairy ball a success, the book explores some common feelings children may experience when faced with engaging in a big, milestone event.

The story centers around a close-knit circle of fairy girls and boys with different interests and abilities. While most of the girls are beyond excited to wear a beautiful custom-designed ballgown for their first grown-up fairy ball, the boys are less than thrilled. (I had been curious about the title from the start, and after reading, I finally understood the meaning.) One of my favorite moments in the book comes when Lilly calls out Boris and Jack for not participating with the group.

“Lilly glared at Boris and then at Jack. The boys shifted their weight from one foot to the other, uncomfortable with Lilly’s stare. Make her stop. Make her stop, Boris thought as Lilly held her stare. Make her stop!”

While the opposing attitudes seem to fall along gender lines, the author steps outside the stereotype with female characters who also have little interest in fancy dress or dancing.

The fairies’ school and home are in a fairy colony in a mushroom patch, and there are lovely descriptions of calm, idyllic meadows, woods, and cool, clear brooks. I enjoyed the clever place names the author adapted to fit the fairy school theme or colony location (i.e., fairytorium, class ‘shrooms.)

The story has a clear message of teamwork and friendship without being heavy-handed. Although this is the fifth in the series, it can easily be read and enjoyed independently without reading the previous books. There are brief mentions of incidents from prior adventures, but they only made me more interested in reading these.

With its sweet message of working together and supporting each other without any controversial or harrowing conflicts to overcome, I recommend FROWNS AND GOWNS to young chapter book readers who enjoy fantasy stories and fairy tales.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Lone Star Book Blog Tours.

[Jan Sikes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved every book I’ve read in The Mischief Series, and this one is no exception. There is something uplifting and lighthearted about romping (or flying 2″, not 3″ off the ground) with these vivacious little fairies.

In this episode, Lilly, Rose, Pearl and Ivy are super excited about their first fairy ball. Needless to say, neither Jack nor Boris share their excitement and hide to avoid being drawn into the preparations. These two boys would rather spend their time throwing slimy moss balls at each other, or at anyone else in the vicinity, than to help prepare for what they deem as a horrific event. Neither of them want to go to this fairy ball.

I love the deep-rooted and genuine friendship these little fairies share. They are kind, generous and helpful. And the adults in charge of these little fairlings set good examples and are wonderful role models. When Jack and Boris get out of hand, they gently pull them back in.

The story shines as the friends join together to help prepare for this exciting event. Broderick, the spider, pitches in to bake special treats for the ball. Even Jack and Boris get drawn in after much hesitation. After all, the food committee needs someone to taste-test the goodies they are preparing. I laughed out loud when Boris over-indulged and had to suffer the consequences. They are so typical of children, yet they are different because in this fairy world, only love and kindness exist.

I enjoyed watching the characters grow from their experiences. While Pearl rides in a ‘chariot’ because her legs aren’t strong enough for her to walk, the other fairies always make sure to include her in everything they do. One of the most touching scenes in the book is when the girl fairies get to try on their gowns for the first time. Extra care was taken to make sure Pearl’s gown wouldn’t get caught in the wheels of her little chariot. The care and consideration not only from the adults, but the other fairies touched my heart. How I wish the world we live in could be like this magical mushroom patch.

This book is perfect for children or adults of any age. It is lighthearted, uplifting and leaves the reader filled with hope for a better world. I highly recommend it, along with all the other books in this series. My granddaughters have loved them all as much as I have, and I enjoy sharing these little fairlings and their adventures with them. If you want to escape into a world where kindness prevails, these are the books for you!

[Sydney Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading this delightful book about fairies and friendships and growing up and fairy dust and moss bombs, I'm curious about the rest of the series. But never fear, Book 5 -- FROWNS AND GOWNS stands on its own.

There are some frowns (that made me chuckle and that pay off, in the end) in that some fairies don't want to participate in any way in the upcoming fairy ball. But there are even more smiles and gowns--and even gowns that help save the day--in said ball. This makes the read enjoyable, especially since we all know non-fairies who live for a school dance and others who will do anything to get out of all the fuss. We know the bossy organizers and the over-avoiders. And then there's the caregivers who both give leeway and help the fairies stay out of too much trouble. Some of us have even experienced the last-minute costume glitches. All together I enjoyed this glance into young fairy world because of its diverse set of characters: girls and boys who come in all shapes, sizes, talents, troubles, and desires. Plus, the excitement builds (both ways) as the big day approaches. Also, the book also gives quite a fair look at what it is like to be on a committee--and to be a team player. (I'm glad those committee chapters didn't last too long and had good twists).

FROWNS AND GOWNS is a fast read and a fun look at how to get along, as well as how to be yourself. I'm not the expert on reader age group, but I definitely see chapter book readers who are still young at heart enjoying this book.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Frowns and Gowns is the 5th book in The Mischief Series, and the second one I've read. Several years ago, I reviewed Spider Web Scramble, and both my son and I loved it.

The Mischief Series does friendship and teamwork well, and these lessons are so important for kids to grasp. There is something magical about accomplishing something big with your friends. 

In Frowns and Gowns, our little fairy children are planning an epic ball. The girls are just ecstatic and can't contain their excitement - the boys, not so much. The mischievous boys only want to have stinky moss ball fights and want little to do with planning the ball. But they end up helping out anyway in their favorite way. 

The best part about these books is the inclusion and unique treatment of each of the fairies. One of our failings rides a little chariot because her legs aren't strong enough to walk, and she gets to have as much fun as the rest. Her gown is specially made to fit her chariot and have her be a big part of the event. 

I also enjoyed the problem-solving these little ones and their mentors did. The moral of this series is that there's always a solution if you work together. They sure ran into an embarrassingly uncomfortable situation that fairy dust couldn't solve, but friendship did!

Of course, the characters are as enjoyable as in the previous book I read. I especially love our well-dressed, friendly spider with amazing baking skills.

This book would be great for elementary readers or for reading aloud with younger kids—especially those who love fairies, epic galas, ball gowns, and baking.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet, light fantasy for fairy fans!

Amanda M. Thrasher does it again with her latest in The Mischief Series: Frowns and Gowns. Lilly and her cute and quirky fairling friends are back for a new bedazzling adventure much closer to home. Soon, they will attend their first fairy ball. Only it’s going to take everyone’s hard work, cooperation, and an extra pinch of fairy dust to pull off a truly magical event.

Fans of the series should be able to read Frowns and Gowns out of order from the rest of the series. However, I’d recommend at least reading the first book for more adventure and more about what makes Lilly a very special fairling.

Frowns and Gowns is a truly sweet and light fantasy for anyone who wants to believe in fairies. No cruelty at this academy for fairlings, only kindness, mind-reading teachers, and a mischievous spider ready to aid Lilly and company in their escapades. Thrasher manages to capture many fun coming-of-age moments: fairy style.

[Marta Moran Bishop · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky to receive an advanced copy of Ms. Thatcher’s latest book in the Mischief Series - Frowns and Gowns from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

For a few hours I lived in the fairies mushroom patch with Lilly, Boris, Jack, and friends, and I didn’t want to come home. A magical fairy ball, the mischief of the boys, Broderick a spider who cooks and knits, and a world of fun, joy, excitement and the lessons gained by working together as a team.

Frowns and Gowns is a delightful and captivating story that will stay with me for years. Ms. Thrasher’s book created a world where one learns the true meaning of friendship, while taking one into the miraculous realm of fantasy. And it held me in that wonderful world of magic and innocence long after I put it down.

I can’t wait for the next book. The Mischief series is by far a land that one wants to live in.

[Kristine Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, my heart. Frowns and Gowns is the fifth book in Amanda M. Thrasher’s The Mischief Series, but it’s the first I’ve read, and I am hooked. Time spent between the pages is a perfectly sweet and magical place for young readers (and Mimis) to escape the real world for a while. Even though my oldest granddaughter is only four, I am already imagining her staying a week at Mimi’s and Granddad’s, and my reading this chapter book to her – one sparkly minute at a time.

What struck me was the respect and civility the little fairlings show for each other and for the adult fairies and creatures in their lives. They mostly follow the rules (I’m looking at you, Boris and Jack), and they often think about the consequences of their actions and encounters with others. Reading Frowns and Gowns made me realize how much I value, and miss, thoughtfulness and consideration.

What terrific examples these young fairies set for readers. Sure, there���s mischief in the mix because that’s life, but it is fun and funny and delightfully descriptive. And the sweets! I could definitely relate to Boris and his affinity for the foods prepared for and presented to the fairies. I’ll have one (or six) of everything, please.

Jumping in so late in the series, there were definitely a few things that piqued my curiosity, so I must go back to the beginning to find out what’s so special about Lilly, why is the invisible Agent Chester assigned to her, and what kind of danger could there possibly be in this lovely mushroom patch (beyond the friendly, but stinky, moss ball attacks)?

The librarian in me appreciates that Thrasher stretches the vocabulary level so that young readers (or those absorbing the story through a read-aloud) are exposed to more robust word choices than the norm. Plus, there are so many talking points and scenes that can springboard into other activities. The Mischief Series would be a great addition to any classroom or school library. (And Mimi’s library, too. I bought this one in paperback and have made space for the other four.)

This full review and other special features on Hall Ways Blog.

[Ruthie Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Tarts, trifles, turnovers, roly-polies, fruit pies, fairy delights, and more were laid out before them."

If you desperately need a break from the cares of the world, dive right into Frowns and Gowns (the entire Mischief Series, really) by Amanda M. Thrasher and allow yourself to be transported to an enchanting fairy colony in a mushroom patch. You may never want to leave!

While Frowns and Gowns is book 5 in the Mischief Series, it can stand alone. Like I said, however, you may never want to leave, so don't be surprised if you quickly find yourself immersed in the entire series, starting with Book 1, Mischief in the Mushroom Patch.

In Frowns and Gowns, Lilly and the other fairlings are about to experience their very first fairy ball, but they must first sign up for a fairy ball committee. When Lilly, Ivy, Rosie, and Pearle are assigned to their first choice, the food committee, they are thrilled and enlist Boris and Jack to help. These boys are mischievous and always looking for ways to avoid work, but who could pass up the job of taste tester?

Be prepared to be constantly hungry throughout this entire delightful story as Lilly and friends enlist the help of Broderick, a spider and baker extraordinaire. He can knit, too. Just reading about the assembly and testing of all the amazing treats for the fairy ball will give you a sugar rush.

With Frowns and Gowns, Amanda M. Thrasher delivers yet another sweet story about teamwork, friendship, kindness, and inclusion. While the plot is not overloaded with fast action or intense danger, it does offer plenty of amusing and refreshing prose that will delight both children and adults alike. Moreover, Boris and Jack, with their reluctance to work because they would rather eat, play, and have stinky moss bomb battles, provide plenty of drama to keep the story rolling forward at a brisk pace.

Life in the mushroom patch is charming, so feel free to stay a while and join the fairlings at their first fairy ball and on all their other delicious and often intriguing adventures.

I received a free copy of this book from Lone Star Book Blog Tours in exchange for my honest review.

[Rox Burkey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amanda M. Thrasher takes us on a whimsical journey with the charming fairies of Frowns and Gowns, book 5 in The Mischief Series. These young fairies, Lilly, Rosie, Ivy, and Pearle, are a delightful mix of sugar, spice, and everything nice. They embark on a series of adventures in the magical world of the mushroom patch, a perfect backdrop for friendship, teamwork, and fairy dust. Boris and Jack, with their love for stinky moss ball fights and aversion to formal attire, add a touch of mischief to the tale.

The fairies in Frowns and Gowns are not just adorable; they also teach valuable life lessons. Pearle, a darling fairy who faces a physical challenge, is a testament to the power of inclusion and friendship. Her friends rally around her, ensuring she’s never left out. The unspoken motto of 'no fairly left behind' is a powerful lesson in teamwork and empathy, showing how they navigate challenges that fairy dust can’t fix. Broderick, the well-dressed spider, weaves a web of fun with his baking and knitting abilities as he befriends the young fairies.

Readers will lose themselves in this fantasy realm where all the characters act positively, giving hearts and a willingness to learn. The vivid imagery comes to life with the flutter of wings, beautiful dresses, caring actions, and overcoming adversity. Frowns and Gowns is the perfect story to read to little ones or as a gift to those enjoying chapter books so they can learn the magic of working together to achieve their goals from these whimsical friends.

[Ariel Hess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of this book from Lone Star Literary in exchange for my honest review.

Frowns and Gowns by Amanda Thrasher is an adorable and whimsical tale about young fairies. The reader takes a journey with the main characters Lilly, Boris, Jack, Ivy, and Pearle. The adventurous group works together to prepare for their annual fairy ball. The girls are excited, while the boys aim to play hide and seek until the event has concluded. Decorations, a long to-do list, committees, volunteering, and so much more must be done before the big day. We journey through as the characters cooperate to accomplish all their tasks. We learn that fun and friendship should be a part of all tasks.

Overall, Frowns and Gowns is a well-written, captivating, and creative children's book. Though it's the fifth in the series, this book can be read as a standalone. As a former children's librarian and school teacher, I love to see books like these on the shelves. The author takes the time to make the book engaging by using descriptive wording to ensure the reader feels transported into the story. Amanda Thrasher has a way with words and storytelling. Any young reader will be quickly engaged in this story and anticipatory of the next books in the series. Thrasher creates a beautiful fairy world that leads the reader to want to explore.


I highly recommend this story for any young reader interested in fairy tales and fantasy. This is a great beginner novel as it is easy quick read.

[Stories Under Starlight Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frowns and Gowns by Amanda Thrasher is the fifth book in her Mischief series where Jack, Boris, Lily and their friends have to work together to plan a magical ball. Of course the girls are more excited about the ball than the boys, but as a team they have to come together to make it happen. Planning a ball is not an easy task and the fairies have to solve many challenges along the way.

This was such a cute story that covers a lot of life lessons for young children. Perseverance, teamwork, and the importance of being kind to others just to name a few. There is a fairy character that uses a “chariot” to get around because of her weak legs. I thought this was such a unique way of including a disabled character, and I loved how the other fairies always included her in everything they did. They didn’t treat her any differently because of her disability. And of course Boris and Jack bring comedy and "mischief" to the story with their stinky moss balls! I enjoyed the side characters that brought more depth to this magical world, especially Broadrick the spider who loves to bake and knit!

Overall, Frowns and Gowns is a cute addition to the Mischief series that is perfect for your child to learn about friendship, teamwork, and overcoming obstacles. Even though this is book five in the series, you don’t have to read them in order to understand the story. A magical chapter book series with life lessons that is perfect for readers ages 7-10 years old.

[Jennie Rosenblum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Opening another book in this series is always a step into the enchanting world of tiny Fairies with hearts of gold, where pretty dresses flutter in the breeze and sweet treats are always on offer, thanks to an incredible baking spider (that's one spider I'd love to see in my kitchen!). In this delightful series, true friendships blossom in a backdrop of magical adventures. I find myself consistently drawn back to the endearing lives of these whimsical characters.

But what truly sets this series on a solid path for enjoyment by all is the inclusion of characters such as the mischievous antics of two rambunctious boys and, of course, my favorites – those endearing stinky moss balls! Their presence adds a layer of whimsy and laughter to an already charming narrative.

Throughout the pages, positivity shines brightly, emphasizing the importance of helping others and standing by your friends. The adult characters serve as positive role models, consistently reinforcing and praising the kind-hearted actions of the fairies. It's a heartwarming reminder of the power of kindness and the beauty of genuine camaraderie, making each turn of the page a joyous celebration of friendship and goodwill. I'd feel comfortable reading this aloud to any child five and above or letting older kids read it independently. The retired librarian in me suggests this series at every opportunity.

[Christena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raise your hand if you remember your first dance. Do you recall your dress or struggling with your first tie? Do you remember learning the steps of how to move your feet to the music? This little gem brings back those memories and introduces kids to the concept of their first dance.

Frowns and Gowns: The Mischief Series Book 5 is another seamless, fun story about a group of friends, who happen to be fairies coming together to put on their first ball. Amanda M. Thrasher continues her series of fairies this time centered around the fairies' very first dance. With the boy fairies not wanting to help or attend to the girls' joys of experiencing their first ball gown.

The magical elements are toned down in this book, but it still explores the concept of teamwork among the young fairies quite well.  What makes this so much more enjoyable is that the ball is a huge success.

Giving multiple high fives and praise accolades to Thrasher for continuing to use Pearle as a main character who has a disability.  Frowns and Gowns is an ideal book to help kids and preteens understand the concepts of teamwork. It kept me engaged and is a quick read.

I read book three of the series of Mischief Books, Spider Web Scramble. I cannot rave enough about this series! Love the magical fairies and I adore how these stories are presented.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frowns and Gowns by Amanda is a whimsical tale of young fairies (fairlings) who are tasked with putting on their prom. Lilly, Boris, and Jack are the principal players, but their circle is rounded out by Rosie, Ivy, and Pearle, the latter of whom uses a wheelchair – er – chariot when she must move around on the ground.

While the preparations depicted in the book move between silliness – stinky moss bomb fights included – the whimsical happenings also include choosing the right gowns and picking the perfect foods.

What I loved about this story was that it was all about inclusion, but organically so, woven through the entire book as a core tenet, never an afterthought. I also appreciated the mischief made by the girl and boy fairlings alike, and I laughed out loud several times. (I aww-ed out loud at least twice, though.)

Overall, this was a madcap romp through the lives of young fairies, with great characters, lovely explorations into friendship, and fantastic worldbuilding.

Goes well with popcorn and cotton candy… obviously.

[Celia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frowns and Gowns is the 5th book in The Mischief series by Amanda M. Thrasher. This delightful book was a great read even though I had not read the other stories in the series. I think it's great to know when you can pick up a book to enjoy without having read everything before it!

I have always loved fairy stories, and reading this tale with Lilly, Boris, Jack and everyone really took me way back to my younger days. Along with the fairies, we have other magical beings that really rounded out the story so wonderfully - I mean, there's a spider who cooks. COME ON. Who won't love that??

In between these magical beings and their lovely lives is a beautiful story of friendship. The backdrop of fantasy kept me in this alluring world where friends and magic and purity were abound. What a truly sweet way to learn about friendship and fun. Thrasher did a gorgeous job writing this story that is full of heart for both young and older readers alike.

[Lone Star Literary Life · Rating 5 out of 5]

Featured on Lone Star Book Blog Tours. Lone Star Blogger Team average rating: 4.8.