Something Strange and Deadly, Book 1
Thrilling fantasy mixes mystery, Victorian romance, zombies.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Something Strange and Deadly is an adventurous paranormal story that will appeal to fans of historical fiction. The first of a planned trilogy, it's set in Victorian times and features likable characters and swooning romance. There's a little swearing ("damn," s--t"), plus some violence and frightening scenes with zombies. Voodoo, witchcraft, and demon possession are also discussed and shown. In a couple of scenes, protagonist Eleanor's mother, intent on marrying her daughter off to help the family financially, makes Eleanor go without eating to prevent her from gaining weight.
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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
- Author: Susan Dennard
- Genre: Fantasy
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, History, Monsters, Ghosts, and Vampires, Science and Nature
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: HarperTeen
- Publication date: July 24, 2012
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 13 - 18
- Number of pages: 400
- Available on: Nook, Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: July 12, 2017
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For kids who love historical paranormal and zombies
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