Underwater Magic Mosaic The underwater world is a place full of beauty and mystery. Its vibrant colors and diverse marine life have captivated humans for centuries. In recent years, a new form of art has emerged that combines the wonders of the ocean with the creativity of mosaic design – the underwater magic mosaic. What makes the underwater magic mosaic truly unique is its ability to create stunning visual representations of aquatic life using intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Artists who specialize in this art form spend hours meticulously arranging small pieces of glass, ceramic, and other materials into a cohesive underwater scene. The end result is a breathtaking mosaic that captures the essence of the ocean.
Werlin’s new novel is cause for celebration—for its sleek, sharp prose; intelligent ideas; and precise characterization, to name but a few of its attributes. Set in 1531 France, this is the tale of Sylvie, an untaught telepathic healer, who, after the death of her grand-mère, mistakenly removes much of her mother’s memory while trying to ease her grief. In the company of clever, rambunctious young neighbor Martin, Sylvie leaves her tiny hamlet in quest of a mentor to teach her how to use her powers safely; the two travel to Lyon with the caravan of an enterprising trader to find the renowned magic-user Madame du Bois. But both Madame du Bois and the trader turn out to be something of a surprise—and will Lyon’s new inquisitor prove to be a help to Sylvie, or a danger? Every sentence here pushes character and plot forward, so there’s plenty of momentum and suspense; but what is more unusual is the way Werlin prods characters (and readers) to think through ideas of faith and reason in making their own choices. The story has its articulate and challenging “lessons” (for instance, even after you discover who it is you’re meant to be, “you must work hard every day to become that person”). Just as much, it invites questions and rigorous reasoning, refusing to bow to romantic sentiment (“But men owned their wives,” Sylvie thinks, considering the legal realities of marriage). A refreshingly honest and elegantly written work of historical fantasy.
In the company of clever, rambunctious young neighbor Martin, Sylvie leaves her tiny hamlet in quest of a mentor to teach her how to use her powers safely; the two travel to Lyon with the caravan of an enterprising trader to find the renowned magic-user Madame du Bois. Although Werlin skillfully evokes Healer and Witch s period setting, Sylvie s journey of self-discovery and its accompanying themes of female empowerment are timeless.
The end result is a breathtaking mosaic that captures the essence of the ocean. Each mosaic tells a different story, showcasing various elements of underwater life. Some mosaics depict schools of tropical fish swimming amongst vibrant coral reefs, while others showcase majestic sea turtles gliding through the water.
Healer and Witch - by Nancy Werlin
"Sylvie and her mother and grandmother are beloved, trusted healers in their medieval French village, though some whisper that fifteen-year-old Sylvie and her grand-mere deal in more than herbs and medicines. After her grandmother dies, and an attempt to use magic to heal her mother's grief brooks tragic consequences, Sylvie leaves her village in search of a teacher."--
Book Synopsis
After eleven young-adult novels, best-selling and award-winning author Nancy Werlin casts a brilliant new spell in a middle-grade historical fantasy for fans of classic fare.
Nancy Werlin's first story for middle-grade readers tackles and transcends traditional fantasy tropes: can a young woman gifted with magic learn to manage her powers--and claim her strength--without violence? Sylvie and her mother and grandmother are beloved, trusted healers in their medieval French village, though some whisper that fifteen-year-old Sylvie and her grand-mere deal in more than herbs and medicines. Perhaps they're a bit . . . witchy? After her grandmother dies, and an attempt to use magic to heal her mother's grief brooks tragic consequences, Sylvie leaves her village in search of a teacher. The journey subjects her to strange alliances, powerful temptations, danger, and deceit. In the end, there may be only one wise woman Sylvie can trust in a world that would define her limits: herself. Beautifully crafted, this quietly powerful work for younger readers assures a whole new audience for an established author.
Review Quotes
Werlin's first foray into middle grade is a thrilling and suspenseful experience; there are twisting reveals and adventure aplenty, though the story isn't afraid to stop for lovely moments of quiet contemplation and recollection along the way. A budding, respectful romance and hints of deeper powers will have readers hoping for a sequel. It's well worth joining kind and clever Sylvie on her harrowing journey of discovery.
--Booklist (starred review)
A refreshingly honest and elegantly written work of historical fantasy.
--The Horn Book (starred review)
A delightful page-turner that will entice readers of historical fiction and fantasy alike. It's a refreshing stand-alone novel with a resilient protagonist who realizes the greatest magic of all is being true to oneself. . . . Thoroughly enjoyable and engaging, filled with magic, mystery, strength, and love.
--Kirkus Reviews
An introspective historical fantasy . . Werlin's gentle reflection on trauma and healing, the ethics of power, and seemingly dual natures explores Sylvie's place in the world and her relationship to those she cares for.
--Publishers Weekly
Gracefully explores themes of identity, family and belonging. . . Werlin (Zoe Rosenthal Is Not Lawful Good) brings compassion and complexity to her depictions of the relationships between characters, challenging standard notions of good and evil. . . . Although Werlin skillfully evokes Healer and Witch's period setting, Sylvie's journey of self-discovery and its accompanying themes of female empowerment are timeless.
--Shelf Awareness (starred review)
Against the backdrop of a turbulent era Nancy Werlin spins a sophisticated coming-of-age story in 'Healer & Witch, ' a novel for readers ages 9-12 that is set in France. . . . a properly inventive, historically respectful story with a touch of magic (and romance) in its realism.
--The Wall Street Journal
About the Author
Nancy Werlin (she/her) is the author of eleven books for teens, including Zoe Rosenthal Is Not Lawful Good, the National Book Award Finalist The Rules of Survival, the Edgar Award winner The Killer's Cousin, and the New York Times bestseller Impossible. Nancy Werlin lives outside Boston.
Review Quotes
The attention to detail in these mosaics is truly remarkable, as artists carefully select each piece and arrange them to create depth and movement within the artwork. Underwater magic mosaics are not limited to traditional wall art. They can be found in various forms, including floor and ceiling mosaics, as well as three-dimensional sculptures. The versatility of this art form allows artists to create immersive experiences that transport viewers to the depths of the ocean. One notable aspect of the underwater magic mosaic is its ability to evoke a sense of tranquility and serenity. The gentle waves and vibrant colors of the ocean are known to have a calming effect on the mind, and these mosaics capture that essence perfectly. Whether seen in a gallery or in a public space, these artworks have the power to transport viewers to a world of underwater wonder. The underwater magic mosaic is not just a form of art; it is a celebration of the beauty and fragility of the ocean. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our marine ecosystems and the need to protect the delicate balance of underwater life. Through the medium of mosaic, artists aim to inspire viewers to appreciate and care for the ocean and its inhabitants. In conclusion, the underwater magic mosaic is a remarkable art form that combines the beauty of the ocean with the creativity of mosaic design. Through intricate patterns and vibrant colors, these mosaics capture the essence of underwater life and create immersive experiences for viewers. They serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving our oceans and inspire us to appreciate their beauty. The underwater magic mosaic truly is a testament to the wonders of the underwater world..
Reviews for "Exploring the depths of creativity: underwater mosaic installations"
- Sarah - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Underwater magic mosaic". The concept seemed intriguing, but the execution fell flat. The puzzles were too easy and lacked creativity. The graphics were also quite outdated and didn't immerse me in the underwater world at all. The game felt repetitive and didn't keep my interest for long. I would not recommend it to anyone looking for a challenging and visually appealing puzzle game.
- Mark - 1 star - "Underwater magic mosaic" was a complete waste of my time. The gameplay was slow and unengaging. I expected more variety in the puzzle designs, but it felt like I was solving the same mosaic over and over again. The background music was also annoying and repetitive. Overall, this game was a disappointment and I regret spending money on it.
- Emma - 2 stars - I found "Underwater magic mosaic" to be quite boring and uninspired. The puzzles were too simple and didn't require much thought or strategy. The graphics were outdated and the colors were dull. I was hoping for a more visually stunning and immersive experience, but this game fell short. I would recommend looking for other puzzle games that offer more challenge and excitement.