About This Book
Reach for this book when your middle-grade reader is seeking a thrill and shows a growing interest in darker, more complex fantasy worlds where the stakes feel high. It is an ideal choice for a child who enjoys 'creature features' but is ready to explore deeper themes of civic duty, the horrors of war, and the power of unlikely alliances. Set in an alternate 19th-century America, the story follows Clover and her friends as they transition from simple volunteer work to a dangerous mission against grotesque, magical monsters called Vermin and the terrifying Underking. The book masterfully balances high-stakes adventure with emotional resonance, focusing on bravery in the face of the macabre and the strength found in teamwork. While the imagery can be gothic and slightly gruesome (think nail-stuffed squirrel skins), it serves a larger narrative about resilience and standing up for others. It is best suited for readers aged 10 to 12 who can handle 'scary-cool' concepts and want to see young protagonists take on significant responsibilities in a world that feels both historical and wildly imaginative.
