Who Would Like This Book:
This charmingly spooky classic is perfect for anyone who loves a magical, slightly gothic vibe with quirky characters. Its star is Lewis Barnavelt - a relatable, bookish underdog who just wants to fit in. The witty banter between Uncle Jonathan and Mrs. Zimmermann adds heart and humor, and Edward Gorey’s illustrations are a treat. It works beautifully for middle-grade readers who want a fun, atmospheric mystery, but it’s also great for older readers looking for a nostalgic, quick fall read with a dose of gentle chills.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers find Lewis too weepy or passive, and the pacing can feel slow or meandering compared to modern middle grade adventures. The story is more about mood than nonstop action, and the resolution may seem underwhelming if you’re craving epic battles. Today’s fantasy fans who expect fast-paced, action-heavy stories or less introspective protagonists might not connect as well.
About:
'The House with a Clock in Its Walls' by John Bellairs follows the story of Lewis Barnavelt, a recent orphan who goes to live with his eccentric wizard uncle, Jonathan, and their witch neighbor, Mrs. Zimmerman. Together, they uncover a mystery within Jonathan's old mansion, as they try to find the source of the ticking in the walls which leads them to confront the evil forces of the past. combines elements of mystery, magic, and adventure set in the 1940s, creating a spooky yet engaging atmosphere that captivates readers of all ages. The writing style is described as sophisticated, with a good balance of creepiness and humor, making it a delightful and nostalgic read for those who enjoy supernatural tales.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
The book includes medium content warnings for themes of grief, bullying, and mild spookiness.
From The Publisher:
A haunting gothic tale by master mysery writer John Bellairs-soon to be a major motion picture starring Cate Blanchett and Jack Black!
"The House With a Clock in Its Walls will cast its spell for a long time."-The New York Times Book Review
When Lewis Barnavelt, an orphan. comes to stay with his uncle Jonathan, he expects to meet an ordinary person. But he is wrong. Uncle Jonathan and his next-door neighbor, Mrs. Zimmermann, are both magicians! Lewis is thrilled. At first, watchng magic is enough. Then Lewis experiments with magic himself and unknowingly resurrects the former owner of the house: a woman named Selenna Izard. It seems that Selenna and her husband built a timepiece into the walls-a clock that could obliterate humankind. And only the Barnavelts can stop it!
Ratings (5)
Loved It (2) | |
Liked It (1) | |
It Was OK (2) |
Reader Stats (19):
Read It (5) | |
Currently Reading (1) | |
Want To Read (9) | |
Not Interested (4) |
1 comment(s)
I read this thanks to the movie adaptation with Jack Black and a convenient daily deal at Audible. It was an interesting change of pace because it doesn’t fit the norms and tropes of modern young adult books. The main character isn’t super-capable or the chosen one – he’s just a normal kid caught up in supernatural weirdness who makes the occasional disastrous mistake. Apparently it’s the first in a series of a dozen or so books, so I might have to pick up the next volume sometime soon.
What can you read after
The House with a Clock in Its Walls?
About the Author:
John Bellairs (1938-1991) was an award-winning American author of many gothic mystery novels for children and young adults, including The House with a Clock in Its Walls (which received both the New York Times Outstanding Book of the Year Award and the American Library Association Children's Books of…
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