About This Book
Reach for this book when your middle-grade reader is feeling like a 'misfit' or shows a keen interest in the darkly humorous and slightly macabre. It is a perfect choice for children who prefer the quirky aesthetics of Tim Burton over sunshine and rainbows. The story centers on Josephine, a new girl in a strange town, and Thaddeus, a lonely boy inventor living in an old Victorian home. Together they must face a bizarre villain who has escaped from an asylum. While the premise sounds intense, the book balances its gothic horror with absurdist humor and a deep exploration of loneliness. It celebrates the power of creativity and the importance of finding a 'fellow weirdo' who understands you. It is ideal for ages 9 to 12, offering a safe space to explore fears through a lens of bravery and mechanical ingenuity. Parents will appreciate how it validates the experience of being different while providing a fast-paced, high-stakes adventure.
