What an engaging read! I'm on a middle-grade novel kick right now and reading Broken Dolls really hit the spot. It was a novel that really draws you in. I'm not usually a horror reader, but Broken Dolls has encouraged me to explore the genre more. The author also adeptly explored many important themes for middle-grade readers: grief and death, family, queer crushes, self-discovery, and friendship. I will absolutely recommend this novel to my younger patrons who love horror, or are looking for a book about loss.

“Broken Dolls” is middle grade horror at its best. It’s age appropriate while still being genuinely spooky. The characters are well developed and relatable. I really felt attached to our protagonist early on. The suspense in this book is unbeatable! I found myself on the edge of my seat trying to figure out where this was all going to end up, and I was not disappointed once! Though I’ll definitely look twice at next doll I see!

Broken Dolls takes full advantage of the creepy doll trope, but in a way I haven't quite seen before. Although I am not the target audience, I genuinely felt unsettled by the description of the dolls materializing and moving around the house. The Poppet (not puppet!) Maker was perfectly creepy and mysterious with an intriguing backstory.

However, Kaye being the only person who could sense something was "off" required a little suspension of disbelief. I just can't imagine many parents would let their kid play with a rotting old doll they found outside and not question it. Or even wash it. Joey's inclusion in the story felt a bit random; I was expecting David to play a bigger role, but I get Kaye needed someone her own age to confide in. Holly could have also been fleshed out a little more, since much of the story revolves around her and the dolls.

What a fantastic middle grade horror. Kaye is such a fantastic character and the way this book grapples with grief in a very real and honest way while staying age appropriate is extremely impressive. There is a lot going on in this book, but it is always engrossing. And it does not skimp on the scares at all. From the very beginning it has a creepy edge to it, and honestly, dolls creep me out and this book takes full advantage of creepy dolls and creepy kids. Loved it!