About This Book
A parent should reach for this book when their child is beginning to notice the injustices of the world or feels like an outsider at school. It is an ideal choice for the middle schooler who is outgrowing childhood fairytales but still craves the wonder of magic to help process the anxieties of growing up. The story follows Charlotte and her cousin Zee as they descend into the Underworld to stop a villain from stealing children's shadows, which serve as metaphors for their joy and individuality. This witty adventure uses Greek mythology to explore themes of belonging, the weight of responsibility, and the reality of illness. While it deals with serious topics like mortality and the underworld, the tone remains humorous and fast-paced. It is perfectly suited for ages 8 to 12, offering a safe space to discuss how we maintain our inner light even when things feel dark or unfair.
