About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is starting to navigate social hierarchies or feels overlooked in their daily life, as it empowers young readers to see that intelligence and kindness are more valuable than status. The story follows Tally, an observant orphan working as a servant in a grand manor, who uses a secret magical library and her code-breaking skills to solve the mystery of a kidnapped puppy. It is a wonderful choice for fostering a sense of agency and logical thinking in elementary-aged children. While the setting involves the rigid class structures of the past, the focus remains on Tally's resourcefulness and her loyal friendship with Squill the squirrel. Parents will appreciate how the book balances lighthearted animal adventure with themes of justice and self-worth. It is perfectly pitched for 7 to 9-year-olds who enjoy puzzles and are ready for slightly more complex chapter book narratives that reward attention to detail.
