The House with a Dragon in It

Gr 3-6–Summer is a foster child whose life takes a dramatic turn when a massive hole mysteriously appears in her home. A vengeful witch offers Summer the opportunity to make three wishes and these act as a framework for the story, allowing Summer to learn essential life lessons about herself, her desires, and her relationships. The novel explores common themes such as friendship, love, and self-belief, using magic as a metaphor for personal growth. Through her interaction with the witch, Summer learns how loneliness can shape one’s actions and mindset, reflecting on her own experiences as a foster child. Each wish brings Summer closer to understanding the importance of opening up to others and recognizing the support and love that surrounds her, even when it feels invisible. While the premise is intriguing, the story’s focus on the witch’s revenge and Summer’s internal journey overshadows the expectation of a dragon-centric adventure, which might feel misleading for readers drawn in by the title. Nevertheless, the novel offers an insightful look into the emotional challenges faced by foster children, highlighting how personal growth often stems from unexpected experiences.