Milford, Kate. Greenglass House. Boston: Clarion Books, 2014.

So once again I judged a book by its cover. I love the cover of this title. I’m not sure what I expected exactly, but the book itself was unexpected. Milo finds himself disappointed when his Christmas vacation doesn’t seem to be turning out as planned. He is hoping for a quiet celebration with his parents, but their Christmas is interrupted again and again by unexpected guests at his family’s hotel. He is both frustrated and fascinated by the unique folks that are messing up his plans. He finds himself joining forces with Meddy, the cook’s daughter to solve all of the mysteries that are surfacing in the wake of all the unusual people.

The combination of a role playing game, some mysterious symbols, and some investigation lead to some startling discoveries about the past and the present of Greenglass house. In the process, Milo contends with his own personal mysteries and discoveries. Adopted, he loves Mr. and Mrs. Pine his adoptive parents, but he also wonders about his birth parents and his cultural heritage.

I had to work a little for this one as it was not entirely what I expected. This title will be best suited for my strong junior high readers. Reluctant readers will not have the patience to wait for the story to develop. Older kids won't necessarily relate to the protagonist because of his age. I can sell it to my kids who (spoiler alert) are intrigued by the paranormal. My formal book talks are over for the year, but I will have lots of chances to talk to the kids one on one. I have a couple in mind!