Eleven

Sam must solve the mystery of who he really is.

Sam is almost 11 when he discovers a locked box in the attic above his grandfather Mack s room, and a piece of paper that says he was kidnapped. There are lots of other words, but Sam has always had trouble reading. He s desperate to find out who he is, and if his beloved Mack is really his grandfather. At night he s haunted by dreams of a big castle and a terrifying escape on a boat. Who can he trust to help him read the documents that could unravel the mystery? Then he and the new girl, Caroline, are paired up to work on a school project, building a castle in Mack s woodworking shop. Caroline loves to read, and she can help. But she s moving soon, and the two must hurry to discover the truth about Sam.

This psychological mystery explores a child s deepest genetic need for belonging. An engrossing examination of a profound theme in the deft hands of a discerning author. Kirkus Reviews, Starred

Exquisitely rendered story of self-discovery. . . . Given the author s expertise at developing sympathetic characters and creating a suspenseful plot, readers will find the complexity of Sam vulnerabilities to be as
intriguing as the unfolding enigma of his past. Publishers Weekly, Starred