Chase Tinker and the House of Magic

A parent would reach for this book when their child is grappling with family secrets, the long-term absence of a parent, or the feeling that their internal world is becoming too chaotic to control. It is particularly resonant for middle-schoolers who feel like the 'troubled kid' due to external stressors. The story follows thirteen-year-old Chase Tinker, who is struggling with his father's disappearance and his own burgeoning telekinetic powers. When a long-lost grandfather appears, Chase and his brother are whisked away to a magical estate where they must confront their supernatural heritage. This fantasy adventure serves as a powerful metaphor for reclaiming one's identity and finding stability when the traditional family unit has fractured. It addresses themes of grief and neglect within a safe, high-stakes magical framework, making it ideal for readers aged 9 to 14 who enjoy mystery and world-building.