The Enchanted Forest, by Isabel Ricardo and translated from Portuguese by José Manuel Godinho, feels like a gentle introduction to longer fantasy stories for middle-grade readers. It’s the kind of book that slowly pulls you in, with just enough magic and emotion to keep you turning the pages.

The story follows a young girl, Rita, who finds herself stepping into a hidden, magical world during what begins as a normal day by the lake. What unfolds is a full-fledged adventure. She meets Bella, the fairy who protects the forest, and is introduced to a world where animals speak, underwater kingdoms shimmer, and every part of nature feels alive. As Rita spends more time in this enchanted space, she meets different animals, each with their own personality, and begins to understand how closely their world is tied to human actions.

What I loved about this children’s book is how it balances wonder with something more meaningful, grounded in our reality. There is magic everywhere, from crystal palaces beneath the lake to quiet forest paths filled with talking creatures, but there is also a clear message running through it. Rita learns that the same world that feels so beautiful is also fragile. Through her journey, she sees the effects of carelessness, pollution, and harm caused by humans. One of the most striking parts of the story is when she helps break a spell on a boy who has been turned into a swan, showing how kindness and second chances matter. Later, when hunters enter the forest, the tone shifts, reminding readers that this magical world is not untouched by danger.

The book also works beautifully for bilingual readers. With both Portuguese and English text, it becomes a great way for children or families to engage with a new language without feeling overwhelmed. I absolutely loved the illustrations as well. They are soft, magical, and detailed enough to draw younger readers into the story, making the forest feel vivid and real.

The Enchanted Forest is a lovely read for children who are ready to move into slightly longer, more immersive stories. It carries a quiet but important lesson about caring for nature, while still feeling like an adventure.

Pages: 135 | ISBN : 1962185761