The Curiosities
by W.H. Eatons
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Pub Date May 07 2025 | Archive Date Oct 15 2025
Description
“A whimsical, suspenseful adventure that weaves mystery and magic into a heartfelt exploration of sibling bonds.” – Kirkus Reviews
Siblings Marlow and Zach Metzler are curious about EVERYTHING – asteroid-bound space probes, pirate ships in the woods, abandoned hotels hidden high in the mountains. Leo, a neighborhood cat, is curious about NOTHING – not pizza slices, not peacock feathers, not even laser pointers (especially not laser pointers).
But when all the neighborhood birds, insects, and even their favorite teacher vanish, the three face a mystery that neither can solve alone. Racing to find all the missing creatures and stop a possible alien invasion, Marlow, Zach, and Leo must lead a ragtag band of new friends and kitty commandos against zombies, monster cats, and earthquakes to save their town and maybe, THE WORLD!
Cover Art by Leticia Lacy
A Note From the Publisher
Advance Praise
"Marlow’s steady, nurturing presence is balanced by Zach’s heightened sensitivity to his environment, and their bond becomes a central aspect of the novel, which skillfully addresses themes of adaptability, friendship, and the power of family, all while engagingly ratcheting up narrative tension. The emergent fantasy elements feel organic to the story, and the setting of Sun Valley, with its vast forests, is vividly rendered. Throughout, Eatons delicately balances lighthearted moments, such as Zach’s humorous attempts to befriend the town’s uncurious cats, with the feeling of an unseen threat. The plot moves at a brisk pace, with each chapter offering new revelations about the mystery in the woods and strange happenings in the town. Animal characters’ points of view provide intriguing glimpses into deeper forces at play. The story’s climax ties together various narrative threads in a satisfying, imaginative way, leaving room for more adventures." -- Kirkus Reviews
Available Editions
| EDITION | Ebook |
| ISBN | 9798218631680 |
| PRICE | $2.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 244 |
Links
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Halle K, Reviewer
This was a wonderfully immersive, whimsical, and adorable children’s book! I loved the world building and the characters, they were such a delight to get to know. I think this book will be loved when it comes out!
Steven R, Reviewer
There's a large world of children's adventure books out there, it's a hard genre to jump into, let alone get it right. The Curiosities feels like one of those stories that will outlast the genre and it's many quick delivered products.
If you loved the feel of Super 8, the Goonies, Stranger Things... If you grew up with Encyclopedia Brown, the Hardy Brothers or Nancy Drew, The Curiosities might just be what you're looking for. A whimsical tale of two siblings with their own quirks, who are determined to get to the bottom of a mysterious new problem, couple that with a neighborhood of interesting cats and you have a recipe for a great, quick adventure.
More important than just the story was the beautiful handling of Zach's Autism. In a few short passages, you're able to get a feel for the struggles that Zach has, but you also get a better understanding of how not only he handles it, but the world around him does. It's never shown as a disability or disadvantage but something special that makes him unique. It felt very real, very delicate and was handled with care. It doesn't shy away from how he's viewed by some in school, or that it can be a difficult process.
The Curiosities was a thoroughly enjoyable read filled with interesting decisions, wonderfully written characters and some beautifully handled morals.
I want to thank NetGalley and Southbound Films for ARC, in exchange for a honest review.
Shelby N, Librarian
This is such a fun middle grade adventure book full of mystery and suspense. I really enjoyed the writing and the characters.
Reviewer 1734760
The Curiosities is a cute and wonderful middle grade novel about a brother and sister duo who must save their town from an otherworldly attack. They’re helped by the brave but quirky neighborhood cats. This would make a great read aloud for upper elementary grade classrooms. It’s a very enjoyable read with both humorous and touching moments.
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