
Reach for this book when your child feels like they are constantly falling short of your expectations or struggling to find their place in a new environment. This story validates the heavy weight of a child's desire for parental approval and the loneliness that often accompanies major life transitions. Through the eyes of twelve-year-old Ben, the narrative explores the complicated dynamics of a 'stormy' relationship with a demanding father and a high-achieving older sister. While there are elements of mystery and 'witchcraft,' the heart of the book is grounded in realistic fiction. It is particularly appropriate for middle-grade readers who feel like the 'underdog' in their own family. Parents will appreciate how it models the importance of finding one's own identity and the healing power of a friend who sees you for who you truly are, even when you feel invisible at home.
Themes of loneliness and feeling unloved or misunderstood by a parent.
The book deals with emotional neglect and verbal friction within a family unit. The approach is direct and secular. The 'witchcraft' elements are treated with a touch of magical realism but function primarily as a metaphor for being an outsider. The resolution is realistic and hopeful, focusing on improved communication rather than a perfect fix.
A 10 to 12-year-old boy who feels overshadowed by a sibling or misunderstood by a parent. It is perfect for the child who internalizes stress and needs to see a protagonist find their voice.
Read cold. Parents may want to pay attention to the father's dialogue to discuss later how Ben perceived those interactions versus the father's intent. A parent might notice their child withdrawing, becoming unusually quiet after a move, or showing signs of 'imposter syndrome' within the family hierarchy.
Younger readers (8-9) will focus on the mystery of Regina's 'magic' and the lake setting. Older readers (11-12) will deeply resonate with the social anxiety and the nuance of the father-son conflict.
Unlike many 'moving' books that focus on school bullies, this one turns the lens inward on the family and the specific pain of feeling like the 'disappointment' of the household.
Ben Wagner has just moved to a town on Lake Ontario and is struggling to navigate his family's high-pressure dynamics. His father is demanding and his older sister is frequently at odds with him. Ben meets Regina, a girl who claims to be a witch and lives in a house that locals find mysterious. As Ben navigates his feelings of inadequacy, Regina's unique perspective helps him gain the confidence to face his father and establish his own identity.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review