Content levels
Trigger warnings
Hero archetypes
Heroine archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Synopsis
The changeling Bartholomew Kettle is still searching for his sister, Hettie, who was swept into the world of faeries after they prevented the sinister Lord Lickerish from opening the door inside Hettie and allowing faeries to invade England. But Hettie has been lost in the Old Country for years, and it will take all of her effort—as well as Bartholomew’s and that of street urchin Pikey—to survive the machinations of the Sly King and save England once again. Bachmann’s follow-up to The Peculiar (2012) has the same dense world building as his first book, though his skills have grown and his writing is much smoother. That said, the characterization still sometimes suffers under the weight of his world building, and the final resolution drags somewhat. Bartholomew often fades to the background in favor of the understandably sullen Hettie and the desperate and destitute Pikey, who has admirable grit. Readers who like their fantasy dark and their faeries sinister will find something to enjoy here. Grades 4-7. --Snow Wildsmith
Is The Whatnot appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 10 and up.
This middle grade fantasy sequel features dark, sinister faeries and perilous situations involving children in danger, though violence isn't graphically depicted. The tone is Gothic and menacing, with children facing threats from malevolent supernatural beings.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include child harm, kidnapping, and death (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Readers who love dark, creepy fairy worlds and determined kids trying to survive impossible odds will find this gripping and atmospheric.