Witherwood Reform School

Gr 4–7—This is a dark, fantastical adventure shrouded in mystery, reminiscent of Lemony Snicket's "Series of Unfortunate Events" (HarperCollins). After tricking their nasty governess into eating tadpoles disguised as gravy, Tobias and Charlotte father has had enough. He drives them outside of town into the dark, rainy night and leaves them outside an old, grim, weathered building, named "Witherwood." His intention is to teach them a lesson; never would he have anticipated an accident would leave him with amnesia, unable to even remember he had children, let alone where he had left them. Boldly, Tobias and Charlotte eventually decide to enter Witherwood. Witherwood's headmaster has created a form of mind control, camouflaged as compounds in food. Tobias and Charlotte must overcome such manipulations as they determine the true aim of Witherwood. The fast-moving plot filled with clues will keep readers wondering and surprised at what comes next. An anonymous narrator adds dark humor while providing background information and hints. Skye's witty descriptions and elevated vocabulary add to the novel's peculiarity yet may be challenging for some readers. Expect kids to demand future installments. Highly recommended as a fresh addition to middle grade fantasy collections.—Mary-Brook J. Townsend, The McGillis School, Salt Lake City, UT