wonder Mirabel she said oozing love and pride Whatever gift awaits will be just as special as you Mirabel held the candle in her tiny hands She could feel the warmth and possibility She was ready to receive her gift and make her family proud 6
7 Chapter one Years later fifteen-year old Mirabel woke up early eager to tackle the special day There was so much that needed to be done for her little primo's gift day As she hurried around her room to get herself dressed the house could barely keep up It slid her shoes and green-rimmed glasses in her direction but barely caught her nightgown as she quickly changed into her embroidered skirt and blouse Now she was ready The bedroom door opened Okay Mirabel said to herself She exhaled You got this The house quickly propelled her downstairs past a portrait of Abuelo Pedro whom she only
knew through Abuela's stories In the photo he was young and very handsome Morning Abuelo Mirabel began to set the table in the dining room As she did the house stirred opening window shutters to let in golden rays of sunlight Outside a swarm of eager children from the village village gathered at the window anxious for tonight's big party For them the Madrigal family's gift ceremony was a huge event The whole town looked forward to it and would come to celebrate As Mirabel prepared for breakfast the children excitedly yelled questions from the window Hey when's the magic going to happen a little boy shouted My cousin's ceremony is tonight Mirabel answered calmly continuing to set up It was important that she helped as much as she could Today was a big day for her family What's his gift yelled the same little boy hoisting a cup of coffee We're going to find out Mirabel said What's your gift another child asked 8
Who's asking Mirabel teased not stopping her work for a second Us said the little boy gesturing to the three other children with him Well us if I only tell you my part you won't know the whole story Mirabel answered This time all the children chimed in What's the whole story Ah you're not going to leave me alone are you she said returning to her bedroom In order to tell children the whole story Mirabel had to tell them all about her family and their magical gifts And she would need a little help from Casita Casita was always there for Mirabel and the rest of the Madrigals They shared a special bond and each day was a new adventure at the magical house Ready to tell the story Mirabel turned her attention to the drawers along the wall Drawers she said They opened immediately for her Floors The tiles on the ground flipped open and closed as if saluting her Doors All 9
