This is an excellent tale of adventure and magic. Not only is the storyline captivating, but it offers subtle and valuable morals of kindness and generosity throughout. “My Friend Merlin” is a spin of the well-known tale of King Arthur and Merlin – offering a glimpse into what their friendship as young teens would look like. This book is perfect for young readers and imaginative minds! Well done, Joanne! – Caitlin Arlene 

I read your book My Friend Merlin and would love to proof-read your up- coming books. The best part of the book was when Merlin used his magic to lift up the stone that was covering the priest. I also read The Witch, the Cat and the Water Dragon which I also loved. – Daniel B. (age 9)

My son Simon (age 10) won one your books “My Friend Merlin” at a Christmas Craft Fair. He is not a reader but loved your book so much he finished it, and wants to read more of them. I would like to buy the ones that we don’t have please. – Noelle Cameron 

My Friend Merlin is amazing! The story lets you join Merlin and Arthur on their adventure and you can almost visualize being there with them. With today’s television shows and some of the books out there for young kids it was refreshing to read one with no violence and teaches kids to let their imaginations soar. By providing a list of the cast of characters and learning new words and how to pronounce them was a bonus. LOVED the illustrations! I’m sure kids and parents alike will be thrilled with this book. Keep up the great work!! – Brenda M.

The children (Grades 1 to 5) really enjoyed the book “My friend Merlin”. It really seemed to hold their attention. The illustrations were beautiful and the kids really loved them. From an educator’s point of view, I was able to ask them what certain terms meant and it got them thinking. From the children’s written comments, it appears they loved the story. They certainly were excited and are looking forward to what comes next. – Cindy Saucier, Kindercare Daycare, Russell Public School 

Karalia (9)– I think the book “My Friend Merlin” was good because they went on a lot of adventures and it was just a good book!
Emma Serson (8) – My favourite part was when they were flying on Kragg. That was the best book ever!
Sierra H.I. (10) – The story was very good. 
Logan (9) – This was the best book in the world! In fact, I really like dragons and magic. Pleaaase make more books like that!
Katie (9) – This book was amazing! It took reading to another level. p.s. I loved the part with the crystal cave.
Ryan (9) – This was the best book ever!|

(Test readers – ages 9 & 10) Kindercare Daycare, Russell Public School 

The author nails it in this young Merlin piece (geared) towards readers 7-10 and anybody else with a penchant for Merlin and Arthurian legend. The story captures very believable young Merlin and Arthur and how they happen to meet and begin their adventures. The story is gripping, entertaining and never a dull moment. It pieces together a very plausible tale of how the two may have met – and their first adventures together. Well threaded with interesting and informative backfill as to more on both Merlin and Arthur’s families and parents. The illustrations by Rich Lauzon are first-rate and lend understanding to the tale. Thoroughly absorbing and highly recommended. Looking forward to the next book in this series. – Joe Michel (adult reader)