Review by Sherry Ellis

Iris and Lark are twins. Iris is the practical one. Lark is the dreamer. The two have always been together. Iris taking care of Lark. Lark relying on Iris. But in fifth grade, things change. They are placed in separate classes. The Lost Girl is the story of how the two cope with this situation.

Interwoven throughout the main story is a subplot of the arrival of a mysterious antique shop, its quirky owner, and a case of disappearing items. Why have things gone missing? Why are there crows in the town? Is magic real? It gets downright sinister when the story reaches its climax. So much so that sensitive readers may find themselves hiding under their covers. It’s the subplot that keeps readers turning the pages.

The Lost Girl is an imaginative coming-of-age tale. Children who have experienced being separated from a sibling, twin or otherwise, can relate. The author does a nice job of getting into each of the protagonists’ heads. By the end of the story, each girl experiences personal growth and learns something new. The only thing that could have been developed a little more is the backstory of the villain.  Discerning readers may be left wondering why the villain was so evil.

The Lost Girl is a very good middle grade read. Recommended for children in grades 4-6.  

(Waldon Pond Press, Available February 12, 2019)

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