For the child who feels like an outsider or is grappling with big, secret feelings, this story explores finding your true self and a sense of belonging in a world full of magic and mystery.
A parent might reach for this book when their child feels like an outsider or is struggling with feelings they can't quite name. It's a story for the child who feels different and needs to see that their uniqueness is a source of magic, not something to hide. The book follows Sparrow, a nonbinary child who has just moved to a new town and is keeping a secret: they can see a mysterious, beautiful creature in the woods. This atmospheric fantasy mystery explores themes of identity, bravery, friendship, and learning to embrace the parts of yourself that feel strange or scary. It’s an ideal choice for a sensitive, curious middle-grade reader ready for a story with emotional depth and a touch of wonder.
Characters explore a mysterious cave and face the unknown.
Sensitive Topics
The book's central theme is identity, specifically gender identity. The protagonist is nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns. This is presented directly and is normalized within the story as an integral part of the character, not the central conflict. The approach is secular and the resolution is deeply hopeful, focused on self-acceptance and the strength found in community and friendship. The story also touches on intergenerational trauma and a parent's grief, handled metaphorically through the mystery of the creature.
Ideal Reader
A thoughtful, introspective child (ages 9-12) who feels 'different' or misunderstood for any reason. It's perfect for a reader who loves atmospheric mysteries, nature-based magic, and character-driven stories that explore big feelings in a gentle, accessible way. It will resonate strongly with kids grappling with their own identity or who feel they have a secret they can't share.
Parent Prep
The book can be read cold, as it does an excellent job of naturally integrating its themes. Parents should be ready for potential conversations about what it means to be nonbinary, as the book uses they/them pronouns for the protagonist. The scenes with the monster are more awe-inspiring and mysterious than truly terrifying, but a particularly sensitive reader might find the suspense in the cave scene a little intense. A parent notices their child seems withdrawn or expresses feelings of intense loneliness, saying things like, "No one understands me," or "I feel like a freak." The child might be struggling with a secret, questioning their identity, or simply feeling isolated from their peers.
Age Experience
A younger reader (9-10) will likely be captivated by the magical creature, the friendship, and the mystery plot. They will absorb the themes of bravery and acceptance. An older reader (11-12) will connect more deeply with Sparrow's internal journey of self-discovery, the metaphor of the monster representing hidden truths, and the nuanced family dynamics.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many books that center a queer identity, this story is not about the struggle of coming out. Instead, it's a beautiful fantasy-mystery where the protagonist just happens to be nonbinary. The seamless integration of identity into a compelling, magical plot is its greatest strength. The monster is also unique: portrayed not as a villain to be defeated, but as a misunderstood wonder to be understood, mirroring the protagonist's own journey.
Read plot summary
Sparrow, a nonbinary kid, moves with their mom to a new, small town, feeling isolated and burdened by a secret: they can see a strange, ethereal monster they call 'The Beautiful Something Else'. Sparrow befriends Lucas, and together they investigate the creature's origins, uncovering a local legend and a hidden family history that connects Sparrow's mom to the very thing Sparrow is trying to understand. The journey forces Sparrow to confront their fears, share their secret, and ultimately embrace their own unique way of seeing the world.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Sparrow calls the creature 'The Beautiful Something Else.' Why do you think they choose this name? What does it say about how Sparrow sees things that others might find scary?
2
Sparrow and their mom have trouble talking about the past. How does their relationship change once they finally start sharing secrets about the creature and their family history?
3
Lucas and Sparrow become friends because they both feel a bit like outsiders. What specific things do they do to show they trust and support each other?
4
The book uses they/them pronouns for Sparrow. If this was new for you, what did you learn? How does Sparrow's identity shape their adventure and their way of seeing the world?
