Reach for this book when your child is learning to trust their own judgment, especially when adults or peers dismiss their concerns. This modern thriller reimagines "Little Red Riding Hood" in a small town where famous storyteller Red's grandmother has vanished. Red suspects a sinister plot that everyone else ignores. To find the truth, she must team up with Logan, a local outcast rumored to be a werewolf. The story explores themes of bravery, prejudice, and the courage it takes to look beyond appearances. Perfect for readers aged 9 to 12 who enjoy atmospheric mysteries, this book is a fantastic tool for discussing how to challenge assumptions and listen to your own instincts, even when it's scary.
The story centers on the disappearance of a beloved grandmother, causing emotional distress.
Sensitive Topics
The central plot revolves around the endangerment and disappearance of a beloved family member (the grandmother). This is handled directly and creates the story's suspense. The approach is secular and focuses on human rather than supernatural threats. Bullying and social ostracism are depicted directly through the treatment of the character Logan. The resolution is hopeful, with justice served, but acknowledges the real dangers the characters faced.
Ideal Reader
A strong reader aged 9 to 12 who has outgrown gentler mysteries and is ready for something with higher stakes and a spooky atmosphere, but isn't ready for YA horror. They likely enjoy authors like Katherine Arden or Adam Gidwitz. This is perfect for a child who feels unheard by adults or is grappling with complex social situations and peer pressure.
Parent Prep
The book can be read cold, as its themes are woven into a compelling plot. However, parents of more sensitive readers may want to be aware that scenes of peril are suspenseful and can be frightening. The threat to the children and the grandmother from the story's villains is palpable. Previewing the climactic chapters may be helpful. A parent hears their child say, "Everyone says he's weird, so I don't play with him," or expresses frustration that "no one ever believes me." The story directly addresses judging others based on rumors and the importance of trusting your own perception.
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-9) will latch onto the exciting mystery plot, the fairy tale connection, and the spooky monster element. An older reader (10-12) will better appreciate the nuanced social commentary on corporate greed, mob mentality, and the power of narrative to shape a community's beliefs.
What Makes It Special
Unlike fantasy-heavy fairy tale retellings, this book is firmly a contemporary mystery thriller. It uses the fairy tale framework to explore very modern anxieties about corporate power and misinformation. The "wolf" is a metaphor for human greed, making the story's lessons about appearance versus reality feel grounded and impactful.
Read plot summary
A contemporary, atmospheric thriller retelling of "Little Red Riding Hood." When her storyteller grandmother vanishes from the isolated town of Ashwood, Red is convinced something is terribly wrong. The town, influenced by old legends and a new, secretive corporation, is quick to dismiss her fears. Red's only ally is Logan, an outcast boy rumored to be a werewolf. Together, they must navigate local prejudice and corporate secrets to uncover what really happened to Red's grandmother and who the real "wolf" in town is.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
The people of Ashwood were quick to believe Logan was a dangerous werewolf. Why do you think it was easier for them to believe that story than to investigate the truth?
2
Red often feels like no one is listening to her concerns about her grandmother. Have you ever had a gut feeling that something was wrong, even when others told you it was fine? What did you do?
3
Red's grandmother is a storyteller. How do the stories she tells, especially about the Big Bad Wolf, influence the way Red sees the world and solves the mystery?
4
At the end of the story, Red's idea of who the 'monsters' are has changed. Who did she think the monster was at the beginning, and who did it turn out to be?
