The Midnighters

Gr 4-6–A thrilling, magical adventure, this murder mystery involves Ema, a 12th child born at midnight just as her grandmother takes her last breath. Ema doesn’t feel as though she fits into her large family where every older sibling has a scientific passion and has been accepted at a prestigious academy. When her parents go on a research trip, they leave her with her estranged but kind uncle. He is an ideal support system for Ema, caring for her unceasingly while giving her the space she needs to grow. While there, she meets a mysterious friend who challenges her to face her fears. When this friend goes missing under curious circumstances, Ema begins an investigation into 19th-century Prague’s magical underworld. This is a coming-of-age novel combined with an exciting mystery where surprises and revelations abound. Readers will appreciate familiar themes like friendship, discovering and sharing your true self, and seeking acceptance that are woven throughout. This book may be too long for younger readers but has satisfying intrigue and resolution for those who see it through.