About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is exploring their own identity or struggling to reconcile a difficult past with their current potential. It is particularly helpful for kids who feel like outsiders or those who have experienced significant life transitions and need to see a model of resilience. In this Victorian-era mystery, undercover agent Mary Quinn must disguise herself as a boy to solve a murder at the construction site of Big Ben. While navigating a dangerous world of engineering and secrets, she is forced to confront her own history of poverty and trauma. This book is ideal for ages 12 and up, offering a sophisticated look at social justice, gender roles, and the emotional weight of 'passing' in a world that judges by appearance. It serves as a powerful conversation starter about empathy for those in desperate circumstances and the courage required to face one's own memories.
