3.87
Part of "Johnny Dixon" series
"The Secret of the Underground Room" by John Bellairs is a gripping and suspenseful young adult novel that combines elements of mystery, horror, and historical fiction. The story follows the adventures of Lewis Barnavelt, a 12-year-old orphan who has been sent to live with his mysterious uncle Jonathan in a small Michigan town. Lewis soon discovers that his uncle is a warlock and that their old house is filled with strange and magical objects. When Lewis and his new friend, Rose Rita Pottinger, stumble upon a hidden room in the house, they unwittingly unleash a series of supernatural events that threaten to destroy their town. Bellairs is a master of creating a spooky atmosphere, and the underground room is a perfect setting for the eerie and unsettling events that unfold. The author skillfully weaves together elements of history, mythology, and folklore to create a rich and engaging story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. One of the strengths of "The Secret of the Underground Room" is its well-developed characters. Lewis is a likable and relatable protagonist, and his friendship with Rose Rita is both heartwarming and believable. The supporting characters, including Uncle Jonathan and the town's eccentric historian, are equally well-drawn and add depth and texture to the story. Bellairs also excels at creating a vivid and atmospheric setting. The small Michigan town where the story takes place is brought to life through detailed descriptions of the landscape, the architecture, and the people who live there. Overall, "The Secret of the Underground Room" is a thrilling and engaging read that will appeal to fans of mystery, horror, and historical fiction. Its well-developed characters, atmospheric setting, and gripping plot make it a standout addition to any young adult library...
John Bellairs
The House with a Clock in Its Walls
If you enjoyed 'The Secret of the Underground Room', you might like 'The House with a Clock in Its Walls' by the same author. This spooky tale follows Lewis Barnavelt as he discovers a mysterious ticking noise in his new house, which turns out to be a sinister clock counting down to doomsday. With the help of his unusual neighbors, Lewis must uncover the clock's secrets before it's too late.
Learn MoreTrenton Lee Stewart
The Mysterious Benedict Society
Fans of 'The Secret of the Underground Room' might enjoy 'The Mysterious Benedict Society' by Trenton Lee Stewart. This book follows four gifted orphans as they infiltrate a secretive institution, the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, to save the world from a nefarious plot. With puzzles, intrigue, and humor, this book is a great choice for those who enjoy mysteries and adventure.
Learn MoreNeil Gaiman
The Graveyard Book
If you liked the spooky atmosphere of 'The Secret of the Underground Room', you might enjoy 'The Graveyard Book' by Neil Gaiman. This novel tells the story of Nobody Owens, a boy raised by ghosts in a graveyard, as he navigates the dangers of both the living and the dead. With its unique premise and haunting prose, this book is a great choice for those who enjoy supernatural mysteries.
Learn MoreEllen Raskin
The Westing Game
Readers who enjoyed the puzzle-solving aspect of 'The Secret of the Underground Room' might like 'The Westing Game' by Ellen Raskin. This Newbery Medal-winning novel follows sixteen heirs as they compete in a mysterious game to solve the murder of their benefactor, Samuel W. Westing. With its clever plot twists and engaging characters, this book is a great choice for those who enjoy intellectual challenges.
Learn MoreSusan Cooper
The Dark Is Rising
Fans of 'The Secret of the Underground Room' might enjoy 'The Dark Is Rising' by Susan Cooper. This fantasy novel follows Will Stanton as he discovers his destiny as the last of the Old Ones, tasked with defending the world from the forces of darkness. With its rich mythology and atmospheric prose, this book is a great choice for those who enjoy epic battles between good and evil.
Learn MorePseudonymous Bosch
The Name of This Book Is Secret
If you liked the sense of mystery and adventure in 'The Secret of the Underground Room', you might enjoy 'The Name of This Book Is Secret' by Pseudonymous Bosch. This book follows Cass and Max-Ernest as they uncover a secret society and a centuries-old curse, all while trying to stay one step ahead of the sinister Dr. L and his accomplices. With its playful tone and unexpected twists, this book is a great choice for those who enjoy a good puzzle.
Learn MoreJulia Golding
The Diamond of Drury Lane
Readers who enjoyed the historical setting of 'The Secret of the Underground Room' might like 'The Diamond of Drury Lane' by Julia Golding. This novel follows Cat Royal, a foundling living in the Theatre Royal, as she becomes embroiled in a dangerous adventure involving a missing diamond, a secret society, and a plot to overthrow the king. With its vivid descriptions and fast-paced plot, this book is a great choice for those who enjoy historical fiction with a dash of mystery.
Learn More