The Second Story captivates readers through interactive ciphers, step by step magic tutorials, and a witty narrator who addresses the audience directly. The high stakes mystery of a haunted hotel is grounded by the deep bonds of a talented misfit family. Books in this family share secret codes, instructional sidebars, and cast of outcasts.
Reach for this book when your child feels like an outsider or struggles to find where they fit in. It is especially resonant for children who may have experienced bullying or have unique family backgrounds, such as adoption, and need to see those experiences validated in a fun, upbeat way. This second installment in the series shifts the focus to Leila, an escape artist who grew up in an orphanage and has found her 'found family' in a group of talented misfits. While the plot involves mysterious psychics and haunted hotels, the heart of the story is about self-confidence and the power of teamwork. It is a middle-grade adventure that balances suspense with humor, making it an excellent choice for reluctant readers or those who love puzzles. The book also includes interactive elements like magic trick tutorials and ciphers, encouraging children to move from passive reading to active learning and skill-building.
