The Girl in the Attic is a charming tale, but I think it probably should have been a short story.

There's a decent narrative here, and Octagon House is a wonderful setting. I have a clear image of the house in my mind. 

The illustrations at the beginning of the book were very neat additions, and I spent some time poring over these. In fact, the illustrations throughout the text were lovely, and really added to the charm.

On the other hand, this story takes a while to get going and it feels like there's a bit too much padding throughout. I wasn't hugely invested until Maddy met Clare.

However, the ending was tied up nicely and left me feeling satisfied.

I liked The Girl in the Attic - it's definitely unique - but I cannot help thinking that it would have benefitted by being written a short story.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

I really loved this book. Maddy moves to the country and is most displease until she meets a cat that guides her to a time traveling portal. This book I think will be a good one for kids because it deals with certain issues in a very honest way.

This was a very well written middle grade story. It had a little bit of everything, family dynamics, grief and also time travel. I found that the book really dealt with issues that arise in blended families and provided a great resolution to them. Thoroughly enjoyed this

I was given a free advance copy  in exchange for my honest review. 

This is a sweet, nicely written book that will appeal to middle schoolers.

Maddy's family moves to the country. Maddy, age 11, is unhappy with the move to a strange, old house far from the city.

Then with the help of a magical cat , Maddy discovers a doorway into the past.  Her adventures teach her about love and family.

Although it wasn't for me, I think young readers will enjoy this book.

This was a lovely middle grade book about a girl who discovers a portal in the attic of her new home, that takes her to that same home in the past. She takes a few trips there and learns about the importance of family and work. One of the fun devices is that a black cat signals to her when she can use the portal. The book is not witchy at all, but I love the nod to a familiar bringing the magic to this otherwise realistic situation. I recommend for girls ages 8-12.

I immediately knew this book was going to be a treat after reading the first line. "The cat sat on the old windowsill, as she had off and on for a hundred years." I read all day until I finished it. A young girl finds a mysterious door in her new house that leads to another time and new friends. On her adventure she learns that true family and friends celebrate together in the good times as well as love and support each other in hard times. 

The Girl from the Attic is full of endearing characters and the final pages made me smile so big. The conclusion of this book was the best! A really sweet read. Expected publication: October 1, 2020 by Common Deer Press #netgalley #thegirlfromtheattic