Families who loved The Treasure of Alpheus Winterborn by John Bellairs often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is searching for a sense of agency or looking for a 'scary' story that feels grounded in real-world history and intellectual curiosity. It is particularly resonant for children who feel like outsiders or those navigating family financial stress, as it validates their desire to help their loved ones through their own wits and perseverance. Anthony Monday is a relatable, hardworking boy who finds more than he bargained for while working at the local library. Alongside the sharp-witted librarian Miss Eells, he follows a trail of cryptic clues left by an eccentric millionaire. While the story features some eerie, Gothic atmosphere and a truly menacing antagonist, it ultimately rewards logic, research, and the courage to do what is right. It is a sophisticated mystery that respects a middle-grade reader's intelligence while providing a cozy, small-town backdrop.
