About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the feeling of being left behind or when they are ready to explore the complicated truth that parents are flawed, independent people with their own histories. Set in a lushly imagined, turn-of-the-century Pacific Northwest, the story follows 12-year-old Lucy Darrington as she ventures into the magical and dangerous Dreamwood to find her missing father. It is a sophisticated quest that balances high-stakes adventure with deep emotional resonance. While the magical elements provide wonder and excitement, the heart of the story lies in Lucy's journey toward independence and resilience. It is perfectly suited for middle-grade readers who enjoy atmospheric mysteries and are beginning to seek more agency in their own lives. Through Lucy's bravery and persistence, parents can open meaningful conversations about family loyalty, the weight of expectations, and the strength found in self-reliance.
