About This Book
Reach for this book if your child is navigating a sudden life transition, such as a move or the loss of a loved one, and feels like they do not quite fit into their new surroundings. It is a comforting balm for children who feel like 'outsiders' or who are struggling with the weight of new responsibilities they feel unprepared for. The story follows Aidan, a boy recently orphaned and placed in foster care, and Andrew, an adult who has unexpectedly inherited a magical estate he does not know how to manage. Together, they form an unconventional family unit while defending their home from supernatural threats. While the book begins with themes of grief and displacement, the tone quickly shifts into Diana Wynne Jones's signature brand of whimsical, high-energy chaos. It explores how family can be built through shared purpose and how even the most disorganized people can find their footing. This is a secular, imaginative fantasy ideal for ages 10 to 14, offering a hopeful perspective on finding stability and belonging in the midst of uncertainty.
