About This Book
Reach for this book when your child feels stifled by strict rules or like an outsider who does not fit the mold of a perfect student. David Eliot is a rebellious thirteen year old who, after being expelled, is sent to a remote boarding school that feels more like a prison than an academy. As David investigates the bizarre behavior of the staff and the creepy disappearances of students, he uncovers a world of dark magic and secrets. This story explores themes of independence, the pressure to conform, and the discovery of one's true identity. It is a perfect choice for middle schoolers who enjoy a blend of gothic atmosphere, dry British humor, and high stakes mystery without being overly graphic. Parents will appreciate how it validates the struggle of finding one's place in a rigid world while providing a thrilling, fast paced escape.
