The Mystery of A Nubbins: A Book Review
The Mystery of A Nubbins is a new 339-page self-published middle-grade novel for kids ages 8-12 that mixes mystery, fairy tale, folklore and old-fashioned wholesome adventure, written and illustrated by W.S. Wiist.
It’s the story of two brothers in the early 1980s who run into a mysterious boy while they’re trying to build forts.
While the boy is friendly and well-mannered, he’s also rather strange.
The younger brother, Andrew, is quick to hone in on the boy’s oddities and other-worldiness and is concerned by it—even a little creeped out.
Older brother, Peter, on the other hand, is intrigued by the strange boy, especially when the kid is able to complete the building of Peter’s fort in one night all by himself, with precision and heavy pieces of wood.
Andrew and Peter (and the reader) are drawn into the boy’s maze-like underground world in the woods.
The story turns dark when Peter accepts a challenge from this boy, and it’s up to Andrew to figure out the mystery before too late.
This is a great adventure story about brotherly love without coming off as sappy, as well as belonging, and first-crushes.
I was genuinely curious to see how it would all end. (I also learned something. The term “nubbins” was new to me.)
In addition to pen-and-ink illustrations at the start of each chapter, Wiist has included several charming full-color paintings—works of art, really.
The book is currently available on Indiegogo.com for $30.
For those of you unfamiliar with Indiegogo (as I was), type in the book title (The Mystery of A Nubbins), and then click “pick your perk” to find the $30 option.
For overseas readers, the book’s available on The Great British Bookshop website for $32.
The Mystery of A Nubbins, available only in hardcover, would make a great gift (it’s not too early to start planning for the holidays), especially for someone who values physical books for their growing library, as well as a charming and slightly creepy story.
Have a good week,
~ Gail
(Tick tock)
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