About This Book
Reach for this book when your middle-schooler is beginning to crave more intense, atmospheric thrills but isn't quite ready for the graphic nature of adult horror. It is an ideal bridge for the child who feels the growing chasm between the world of children and the increasingly strange, often inscrutable behavior of adults. Set in 1980s coastal Oregon, the story follows Archie and his friends as they investigate a supernatural evil unleashed by a construction project. It explores themes of bravery, the loss of childhood innocence, and the vital importance of peer loyalty when authority figures can no longer be trusted. While it offers a genuine chill, it remains grounded in the emotional reality of growing up and finding one's own voice. It is a sophisticated, moody choice for kids who enjoy feeling a little bit spooked while exploring deep questions about community secrets.
