About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their child is processing a significant loss or struggling with a bully and has begun to retreat into a world of their own. It is a powerful tool for recognizing when a child's 'safe place' might actually be preventing them from healing in the real world. Twelve-year-old Bren uses a complex, imagined world of clockwork and machines to cope with the death of his sister and the cruelty of a school bully. The story handles heavy themes of grief and escapism with a sophisticated, metaphorical lens. It is best suited for children aged 9 to 12 who are ready for a slightly darker, more atmospheric read. Parents will appreciate how it validates the need for imagination while gently guiding the reader toward the courage required to face reality and find their voice again.
