About This Book
Reach for this book when your middle schooler is craving a sophisticated, darker fantasy that explores the grit of history and the origins of a classic literary villain. It is a perfect choice for the child who enjoys the eerie atmosphere of a ghost story but wants the structural depth of a historical drama. Set in the plague-ridden London of 1664, the story follows young Will Godwin and a family of cats as they navigate the dangerous world of a cruel alchemist. While the book features animals, it is far from a cuddly pet story. It delves into themes of sorcery, greed, and the moral choices that lead one toward darkness or light. Parents should be aware that the book contains macabre imagery and moments of intense peril, making it most suitable for readers aged 10 to 14 who can handle high-stakes tension. It is an excellent tool for building vocabulary and discussing how environment and choices shape a person's character.
