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The Wish List
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"The Wish List" Summary

A teenage girl, trapped between life and death, must complete a series of good deeds to earn her place in heaven.

Estimated read time: 5 min read

One Sentence Summary

A teenage girl, trapped between life and death, must complete a series of good deeds to earn her place in heaven.

Introduction

"The Wish List" is a captivating novel written by Eoin Colfer, the acclaimed author of the Artemis Fowl series. This thrilling and heartwarming story takes readers on a journey through the afterlife, where a young girl named Meg Finn must complete a series of tasks to earn her place in heaven. Filled with adventure, humor, and profound insights, "The Wish List" explores themes of redemption, friendship, and the power of second chances.

Brief Synopsis

"The Wish List" follows the story of Meg Finn, a troubled teenager living in Dublin. After a botched robbery attempt with her partner-in-crime, Belch Brennan, Meg finds herself trapped in the afterlife. Instead of going to hell, she is given a chance to redeem herself and earn her place in heaven by completing a series of tasks.

In the afterlife, Meg encounters Lowrie McCall, a cranky and bitter old man who is also stuck in limbo. Lowrie becomes Meg's unlikely guide and mentor as they navigate their way through the challenges that lie ahead. Together, they embark on a thrilling adventure filled with danger, humor, and unexpected twists.

As Meg and Lowrie journey through various realms, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, including angels, demons, and other lost souls. Along the way, they uncover the dark secrets of their pasts and discover the true meaning of redemption.

Main Characters

CharacterDescription
Meg FinnA troubled teenager who must complete tasks to earn her place in heaven.
Lowrie McCallA cranky old man stuck in limbo who becomes Meg's guide and mentor.
Belch BrennanMeg's partner-in-crime who also finds himself in the afterlife.

Summary of Story Points Over Chapters

Chapter 1: A Fateful Night

  • Meg and Belch attempt a robbery but it goes awry.
  • Meg dies in a car accident while trying to escape.

Chapter 2: Trapped in Limbo

  • Meg wakes up in the afterlife and meets Lowrie McCall.
  • She learns that she has a chance to redeem herself.

Chapter 3: The First Task

  • Meg and Lowrie travel to a haunted house to retrieve a stolen artifact.
  • They encounter a mischievous ghost named Calvin.

Chapter 4: A Journey Through Realms

  • Meg and Lowrie visit different realms, including the Realm of the Lost and the Realm of the Forgotten.
  • They encounter strange and enchanting creatures along the way.

Chapter 5: Confronting the Past

  • Meg and Lowrie must confront their past mistakes and learn to forgive themselves.
  • They discover the truth behind Meg's troubled childhood.

Chapter 6: The Final Task

  • Meg and Lowrie face their toughest challenge yet: saving the soul of a young boy from eternal damnation.
  • They overcome obstacles and make sacrifices to achieve their goal.

Main Events

  • Meg's death and her journey into the afterlife.
  • Meg's encounters with various realms and characters.
  • Meg and Lowrie's personal growth and redemption.
  • The final task and the ultimate test of Meg and Lowrie's determination and compassion.

Themes and Insights

"The Wish List" explores several themes that resonate with readers of all ages:

  1. Redemption: The novel delves into the concept of redemption and the idea that everyone deserves a second chance. Through Meg's journey, readers witness the transformative power of forgiveness and the capacity for growth and change.
  2. Friendship: The unlikely friendship between Meg and Lowrie highlights the importance of companionship and support. Their bond teaches us that true friendship can be found in the most unexpected places.
  3. Self-Reflection: Meg's journey prompts readers to reflect on their own actions and choices. It encourages introspection and sparks the desire for personal growth and improvement.
  4. Courage and Sacrifice: Throughout the story, Meg and Lowrie display courage and make sacrifices for the greater good. This theme reminds readers of the strength within themselves and the importance of selflessness.

Reader's Takeaway

"The Wish List" is a delightful and thought-provoking novel that captivates readers with its unique blend of adventure, humor, and heartfelt moments. Colfer's vivid storytelling and well-developed characters make for an engaging and memorable reading experience. This book reminds us that redemption is possible for everyone and that friendship can be found in the unlikeliest of circumstances.

Conclusion

"The Wish List" by Eoin Colfer is a captivating and imaginative novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the afterlife. With its compelling characters, engaging plot, and profound themes, this book is a must-read for fans of Colfer's work and anyone seeking an enchanting and thought-provoking story. "The Wish List" is a testament to the power of redemption, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Wish List FAQ

  1. What is the main plot of 'The Wish List'?

    'The Wish List' follows the story of Meg Finn, a troubled teenager who dies in a gas explosion. She is given a chance to redeem herself by helping the cantankerous Lowrie McCall, a cranky old man who has spent his life committing petty crimes.

  2. Who is the author of 'The Wish List'?

    The author of 'The Wish List' is Eoin Colfer.

  3. What genre does 'The Wish List' belong to?

    'The Wish List' is a fantasy novel.

  4. Is 'The Wish List' suitable for young adults?

    Yes, 'The Wish List' is suitable for young adults as it explores themes of redemption and personal growth.

  5. Are there any supernatural elements in 'The Wish List'?

    Yes, 'The Wish List' incorporates supernatural elements as it involves the afterlife and the intervention of a supernatural character.

  6. What age group is 'The Wish List' recommended for?

    'The Wish List' is recommended for readers aged 12 and above.

  7. Does 'The Wish List' have any sequels?

    No, 'The Wish List' does not have any sequels.

  8. What are some other popular books by Eoin Colfer?

    Some other popular books by Eoin Colfer include the 'Artemis Fowl' series and 'Airman'.