
A parent should reach for this book when their child is struggling with a lack of confidence or feeling overshadowed by more outgoing peers. It is a perfect choice for a pre-teen who enjoys a spine-tingling mystery but also needs to explore themes of resilience and the courage it takes to stand up for oneself. The story follows Drew, a timid boy who swaps places with his great-great-uncle Andrew from 1910. While trapped in the past, Drew must learn to navigate a world that demands more toughness and bravery than he thought he possessed. It is an excellent bridge for discussing how we can grow through challenges and how our family history shapes us. While it contains spooky elements and historical depictions of illness, the emotional payoff is deeply empowering for middle-grade readers.
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Sign in to write a reviewDepicts historical corporal punishment (whipping with a belt) and schoolyard bullying.
Themes of being forgotten by time and the mortality of family members.
The book deals with the threat of death from illness (diphtheria) in a realistic, historical context. It also depicts 1910s parenting styles, which include corporal punishment. The resolution is hopeful, emphasizing that Drew's experiences in the past have permanently improved his self-esteem in the present.
A 10-year-old who feels 'fragile' or is often told they are too sensitive, and who would benefit from seeing a character discover their own hidden toughness through an extraordinary adventure.
Parents should be aware of a scene where a child is whipped with a belt (common for the time period) and the tension surrounding a sibling's near-fatal illness. A parent might see their child avoiding a sport or social situation out of fear of failure, or hear their child say, 'I'm just not brave like the other kids.'
Younger readers (9) will focus on the spooky 'twin' mystery and the thrill of the time travel. Older readers (12) will better appreciate the historical nuances and the internal psychological shift Drew undergoes.
Unlike many time-slip novels that focus on the 'fish out of water' comedy, Hahn uses the trope to facilitate a deep psychological transformation, using the past as a crucible for building modern character.
When Drew is sent to stay at his aunt's old house, he encounters the ghost of his ancestor, Andrew, who looks exactly like him. They strike a bargain to swap places, sending Drew back to 1910 while Andrew stays in the present. Drew must adapt to a world of strict discipline, diphtheria outbreaks, and his family's high expectations for athleticism. Ultimately, Drew must find the strength to stand up to a bully and win a crucial baseball game to ensure he can return to his own time.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.