Common Sense Media Review
By Julie A. Carlson
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Thrilling fantasy mixes mystery, Victorian romance, zombies.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Eleanor Fitt is waiting at the telegraph office in Philadelphia to hear word from her beloved brother when some of the zombies that have been plaguing the city invade the office. A corpse gives her an ominous message that her brother is in serious trouble and has been detained. Fearing the worst, Eleanor contacts the Spirit-Hunters, a rag-tag group who deal with the paranormal. Their temporary office is located in Machinery Hall at the Centennial Exposition of 1876. Hoping they can provide answers to the message, Eleanor becomes embroiled in helping the Spirit-Hunters battle the Dead, while figuring out how to save her brother in the process.
Is It Any Good?
SOMETHING STRANGE AND DEADLY is a thrilling novel with dark gothic and steampunk elements and nonstop action from start to finish. Author Susan Dennard clearly did her research on the Centennial Exposition of 1876 and the Victorian era. She captures the essence of being a teen girl during this time -- the clothes, mannerisms, and customs -- while giving her story a modern edge. The mystery moves the narrative and keeps the reader on tenterhooks at all times. Each character is real and believable, and Eleanor is a terrific heroine with solid values and moxie.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the Centennial Exhibition of 1876 and Philadelphia during the late 1800s (which are shown in photographs on the novel's official website). Can you imagine how different being a teenager in Victorian times would be?
Why do you think novels about zombies are so popular?
How far would you go to protect or save your sibling or relative from harm?
Book Details
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