The Thief of Always

Reach for this book when your child expresses chronic boredom or a desire for instant gratification, as it serves as a profound cautionary tale about the value of time. The story follows ten year old Harvey Swick to the Holiday House, a magical place where every day features four seasons and endless treats. However, Harvey soon discovers that the house is a trap designed to steal the souls of children. This dark fantasy uses horror elements to explore themes of greed, the necessity of shadows in life, and the bravery required to grow up. It is an ideal pick for older elementary or middle schoolers who are ready for spooky, high stakes storytelling with a strong moral core about appreciating the present moment.