Lily is used to hospitals — she’s spent more time in them than out of them thanks to her recent health issues. But when her mother goes into labor, her parents drop her off at her grandmother’s house and rush to the hospital without her. Lily doesn’t want the new baby to replace her and she certainly doesn’t want to be sick anymore.
Most frustrating of all, she forgot to pack Willo, her favorite toy. Under her grandma’s not-so-watchful supervision, Lily sneaks back home to get Willo. Expecting to find an empty house, she is surprised to find her parents there. But something isn’t right... They look just like her mom and dad until she gets closer and sees their coal black eyes. And they refuse to let her in — it’s their house now.
With the help of some surprising new friends that she meets in her garden, Lily is determined to beat these shadowy replacements and be reunited with her real parents. But is she strong enough to triumph? This delightfully dark middle grade adventure, with occasional artwork sprinkled throughout, is perfect for fans of Coraline.
"Outside, Lily meets talking animals: Crow, Mouse, Mole, and Snake. Over the course of the night, they help her try to reclaim her home. Lily ultimately learns to accept her chronic illness and become a loving big sister. This story beautifully blends horror elements with animal fantasy and realistic issues.... The animals add humor and levity to the adventure, while Lily is believably frustrated with her sickness and scared that The Baby is taking over her place in the family.... An appealing tale of fortitude with just the right amounts of spookiness, playfulness, and heart." — Kirkus Reviews
Recommended Age | 9 - 12 |
---|---|
Author | Nick Lake |
Illustrator | Emily Gravett |
ISBN | 1534494618 |
Publication Date | Aug 30, 2022 |
Publisher | Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers |
Language | English |