The Best of John Bellairs

A parent would reach for this book when their child is feeling like an outsider, perhaps due to a recent move or the loss of a parent, and needs to see that even the quietest kids can find a unique sense of belonging. The collection follows ten-year-old Lewis Barnavelt, an orphan who moves into a mysterious house with his eccentric Uncle Jonathan and neighbor Mrs. Zimmerman. While the surface plot involves magic, clocks, and hidden amulets, the heart of the story deals with finding comfort in unconventional family structures and the courage it takes to be yourself when you feel physically or socially inadequate. It is a spookier series that uses the supernatural to explore very real feelings of grief and loneliness. It is best suited for readers aged 9 to 13 who enjoy a gothic atmosphere but still crave the warmth of a supportive home environment.