Monsters in the Mist - by Juliana Brandt (Paperback)

About the Book

"When Glennon McCue moves into a lighthouse on a mysterious island not found on any maps, he must figure out why those who visit are never heard from again before he and his family fall victim to the island's curse"--

Book Synopsis

"A tale that is chilling on more than one level... Zombie rats and ghastly ghosts galore--but the haunting comes from more than the spectral cast" -- Kirkus

When 13-year-old Glennon McCue, his mom, and his fragile sister are left with their uncle at his lighthouse on Isle Philippeaux, Glennon desperately wants leave the desolate isle and return home. But his father is away, so Glennon is forced to spend his break surrounded by fog, rats, and chilling myths. Nothing seems quite right... with the island or with his family.

A storm rocks the island and a ship crashes near the lighthouse, leaving behind a group of sailors. Something is off about the survivors, who seem more monster than human. Soon it becomes clear that there won't be boats to take anyone home, and Glennon and his family are trapped.

It will take all Glennon's courage to save his family from the curse of the isle and the real monster in his life.

Pick up Monsters in the Mist if you are looking for:

• A book for middle school students, 5th grade to 9th grade
• Mystery books for kids 9-12
• Chilling ghost stories and ghost books for kids (perfect for Halloween!)

Praise for The Wolf of Cape Fen:

"Brandt's striking debut is eerie and intriguing, set in a deftly built world that feels both cozily familiar and unsettlingly odd. A stunning seaside fairy tale that will absorb readers until the very end."--Booklist

"Unfolding gradually as Eliza relentlessly pieces the past together, this intriguing mystery culminates in a startling, literally transforming climax."--Kirkus Reviews

"Atmospheric...this fabulist middle grade effectively employs a dream-fueled magic system that reckons with consequences."--Publishers Weekly

Praise for A Wilder Magic:

"Readers who enjoyed the Savvy series by Ingrid Law and Drizzle by Kathleen Van Cleve will love this little gem." --Rebecca Williams, Portland Book Review

"The relationship between magic, nature, and intent adds a thoughtful level of complexity and cost to this sophomore novel by Brandt....a poignant blend of loss and optimism as readers empathize with Sybaline's rebellion against inevitable change." --Publishers Weekly

"[Kids] expecting a big move may find comfort in Sybaline's eventual acceptance of her need to leave the valley." --The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Review Quotes

"A lot of creepy vibes... complete with monsters and ghosts" -- School Library Connection

"Brandt, a kindergarten teacher who lives in Minnesota, should be read by all middle-schoolers. She writes beautifully while conveying the feelings of young teens and she brings Lake Superior alive in all its moods. Like her previous novels, "The Wolf of Cape Fen" and "A Wilder Magic," this one is very creepy but ultimately shows characters who have grown emotionally and mentally" -- Pioneer Press

"Stranger Things meets The Goonies... this adventure tale has serious themes but also plenty of heart and just the right amount of chills" -- The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"The supernatural and interpersonal story lines offer a hard-won tale of freeing oneself from both internal and external limitations. Brandt's (A Wilder Magic) writing is lyrical--the gale force wind almost feels like its own character--and the narrative atmosphere proves harrowing" -- Publishers Weekly

"This haunting story wrecked me in the very best way, and took me on an emotional adventure I didn't want to end. Juliana has masterfully written a spooky story, with wonderfully crafted characters you can't help but to root for, while also subtly introducing a difficult topic that resonates in so many ways. From page one, I quickly became lost in the beauty of the storytelling and riveted to the mystery and horror that was so brilliantly unfolding chapter by chapter. This heartfelt and creepy story will stay with you long after you finish the novel!" -- Daka Hermon, author of Hide and Seeker

"Zombie rats and ghastly ghosts galore--but the haunting comes from more than the spectral cast" -- Kirkus