The Hallmark Keepsake Power Cord and the Magic Cord are both accessories that enhance the functionality of Hallmark Keepsake ornaments. These cords are designed to light up and animate ornaments, adding a magical touch to holiday decorations. The Hallmark Keepsake Power Cord is a basic cord that connects to a string of ornaments. It powers the lights and sound effects of the ornaments, allowing them to light up and play music or other sound clips. The Power Cord is usually included with the purchase of a Keepsake ornament, ensuring that the ornament is ready to be displayed and enjoyed. On the other hand, the Magic Cord is a more advanced version of the Power Cord.
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.
On the other hand, the Magic Cord is a more advanced version of the Power Cord. It offers additional features and capabilities, taking the ornament display experience to the next level. The Magic Cord can power not only lights and sounds but also motion and animation.
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
This means that certain ornaments can move or perform specific actions when connected to the Magic Cord. For example, a sleigh ornament can rock back and forth or a carousel ornament can spin around when connected to the Magic Cord. While the Power Cord is suitable for most Hallmark Keepsake ornaments, the Magic Cord is specifically designed for ornaments that are labeled as Magic Cord compatible. These ornaments usually have a designated spot to connect to the cord and may require specific batteries, which can also be purchased separately. In terms of compatibility, the Power Cord can be used with the Magic Cord compatible ornaments, but it will not enable the additional motion and animation features. However, the Magic Cord cannot be used with ornaments that are not labeled as Magic Cord compatible. Both the Hallmark Keepsake Power Cord and the Magic Cord offer a convenient and seamless way to power and animate Hallmark Keepsake ornaments. Whether one chooses the basic functionality of the Power Cord or the advanced capabilities of the Magic Cord, these accessories provide an enchanting experience for holiday decoration enthusiasts..
Reviews for "Hallmark Keepsake Power Cord vs. Magic Cord: Which is Easier to Use?"
1. Karen - 2 stars
I was really excited to use the Hallmark keepsake power cord for my Christmas tree decorations, but I was disappointed with my purchase. The power cord didn't fit well with my ornaments and I had to struggle to make them stay connected. Additionally, the cord seemed flimsy and I was afraid it would break easily. Overall, I found the power cord to be ineffective and unreliable.
2. Mark - 2 stars
I had high hopes for the Hallmark keepsake power cord, but it fell short of my expectations. The cord didn't seem to have a strong connection with my ornaments, resulting in my decorations not lighting up consistently. I also found the cord to be quite short, which limited the placement of my ornaments on the tree. I ended up switching to a different power cord that worked much better for my needs.
3. Sarah - 1 star
I regret purchasing the Hallmark keepsake power cord. Not only did it not work with my Hallmark ornaments, but it also failed to provide a stable power connection. The lights would flicker and sometimes not turn on at all. This power cord was a waste of money and I would not recommend it to others. It's better to invest in a more reliable and compatible option.
4. Mike - 2 stars
I am disappointed with the Hallmark keepsake power cord. It was advertised as being compatible with all Hallmark ornaments, but I found that it didn't fit some of my ornaments properly. The connection was loose and unreliable, resulting in the lights intermittently turning on and off. I ended up having to buy a different power cord that actually worked with all my ornaments. Don't waste your money on this one.