The Wishing Spell

Why do you think Colfer chose not to have Alex and Conner be aware that the Wishing Spell had only one use left? Do you think their ignorance enhanced the story? Why or why not? If not, how would have letting them know made the story more suspenseful? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

Why do you think the Fairy Godmother was brought to the real world when she wished to go where people needed her? What message does Colfer send about the real world through the effects of that wish? Where might someone from the real world end up if they could make that exact wish? Why that place?

Compare and contrast the happily-ever-afters of characters like Snow White and Cinderella to the love triangle that plays out between Goldilocks, Jack, and Red Riding Hood in The Wishing Spell. What elements are different in these situations? Does it seem like Colfer uses them as the next generation of fairy tales to send different messages than those found in the originals? Why or why not? Support your answer with evidence from the text.