Reading Metrics
Description
After their father is killed in a car accident, Tess and her brother Axel are sent to live with their grandparents in Finland, where they encounter a mysterious stranger accompanied by a giant brown bear. Tess discovers a liminal realm between life and death rooted in Finnish mysticism, through which she must journey to save her brother. The novel is intended for upper grade readers.
Quick Summary
This book weaves together grief, mystery, and a touch of magic as two siblings uncover strange connections between their family and a puzzling man who travels with a bear. Kids will love the eerie Finnish winter setting, the sibling team navigating family secrets, And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda way the mystery unfolds with just the right amount of creepiness. If your kid likes emotionally rich mysteries like The Girl Who Drank the Moon, they'll devour this. Perfect for ages 13 and up in 9th through 12th grade.