About This Book
Reach for this book when your child feels like their voice is too small to make a difference or when they are struggling with the transition into a new environment where they need to prove their worth. It is an ideal choice for the middle-grade reader who loves a puzzle but also needs to see that resilience can come from the most unexpected places. Wilma, an orphan with a sharp mind, represents the strength of kids who have had to grow up a little too fast but haven't lost their spark of curiosity. The story follows Wilma as she apprentices for a detective to solve a series of mysterious poisonings at a local theater. Beyond the Victorian mystery and slapstick humor, the book explores themes of belonging, the search for a chosen family, and the courage it takes to step up when the adults in the room disappear. It is perfectly appropriate for ages 8 to 12, offering a sophisticated vocabulary wrapped in a fast-paced, entertaining package that validates a child's need for independence.
