About This Book
A parent should reach for this book when their child feels like a misfit or struggles to find their place among peers. It is a perfect choice for a middle grader who needs to see that being different is actually a secret superpower and that family is something you can build yourself through shared adventures and loyalty. Set in a fantastical Victorian London, the story follows an orphan named Grubb who escapes a life of chimney sweeping to join the crew of the Odditorium, a flying, magical house. While the plot is full of high-stakes action and steampunk inventions, the emotional core focuses on Grubb's transition from a lonely outsider to a valued member of a team. It deals with themes of belonging, the weight of a mysterious past, and the courage to face dark forces alongside friends. This is an excellent pick for 8 to 12 year olds who love world-building but also need a story about finding home.
