Book details
The Kneebone Boy
Description
Life in a small town can be pretty boring when everyone avoids you like the plague. But after their father unwittingly sends them to stay with an aunt who's away on holiday, the Hardscrabble children take off on an adventure that begins in the seedy streets of London and ends in a peculiar sea village where, according to legend, a monstrous half-beast boy roams the woods. . . . In this wickedly dark, unusual, and compelling novel, Ellen Potter masterfully tells the tale of one deliciously strange family and a secret that changes everything.
Age
9-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
304 pages
Why to read
- Engaging Mystery: 'The Kneebone Boy' is a captivating tale that combines elements of mystery and adventure, drawing readers into the enigmatic world of the Hardscrabble children as they embark on a journey to uncover the secrets of their family and the elusive Kneebone Boy.
- Quirky Characters: Ellen Potter has created a cast of unique and memorable characters, each with their own quirks and personalities. Readers will find themselves invested in the lives of the Hardscrabble siblings and the eccentric individuals they meet along the way.
- Atmospheric Setting: The book is set in a whimsically gothic England, with settings that range from a small seaside town to a mysterious castle. The vivid descriptions of these places will transport readers and provide a rich backdrop for the story's events.
- Themes of Family and Identity: At its heart, 'The Kneebone Boy' explores themes of family, belonging, and self-discovery. As the siblings unravel the mysteries of their past, they also learn about themselves and what it means to be a family, making the book a thought-provoking read for both young readers and adults.