The Blue Door (Threshold Series)
Fourteen-year-old Prissie Pomeroy leads an ordinary existence, chatting with her somewhat shallow friends, making plans to attend the county fair, and enjoying time with her family. Everything changes, however, when she realizes she can see angels—as in, celestial beings walking the planet. Suddenly, the young farm girl’s life is turned upside down as she discovers she is a key player in a spiritual battle being waged on earth. Her Observer, Koji, is startled when he realizes Prissie can see him as a young human teen, although he remains invisible to other earthly eyes. Prissie begins to lean on him for advice and support, even though at times she feels she doesn’t need it. Kinde’s world building is strongest in her angel characters, each of whom has a distinct personality, much like the humans they watch. Less praiseworthy is that none of her angels are female, which might have provided more interest to girl readers. The language and plot of this first title in a series are well geared toward middle-graders, and the positive Christian message may please some parents. Grades 6-8. --Julie Trevelyan