About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their child is beginning to feel the weight of responsibility or experiencing anxiety about the swift, often surreal transition into adolescence. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the fear of seeing those we care about become vulnerable and the sudden need to step into a leadership role when the world feels out of balance. The story follows Hugh, who buys an old cupboard that possesses a terrifying magical property: anything placed inside it reverts to an earlier stage of its existence. When his friend Penn accidentally falls in and emerges as a helpless infant, Hugh and his companions must navigate a surreal, dreamlike landscape to restore their friend and find their own footing in a world that has literally turned upside down. This is an atmospheric, slightly haunting read best suited for children aged 10 to 14 who enjoy psychological depth in their fantasy. It explores themes of loyalty, the burden of caretaking, and the unsettling nature of time, making it a perfect choice for mature middle grade readers who are ready to move beyond simple adventure stories into more complex emotional territory.
