"The Mysterious Howling" by Maryrose Wood is the first book in the series "The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place." This middle-grade novel is a delightful blend of mystery, humor, and adventure, with a touch of the gothic. The story follows the heroic and unflappable young governess, Penelope Lumley, as she is hired to teach and civilize the Incorrigible Children, a trio of wild and unruly siblings who were discovered in the woods by their wealthy guardian, Lord Ashton. The children, who are rumored to be the offspring of wolves, present a unique challenge for Penelope, who must navigate the strange and often bewildering world of Ashton Place while also unraveling the many mysteries that surround the Incorrigible Children. Wood's writing is witty and engaging, with a clever and playful use of language that will appeal to both children and adults. The characters are well-drawn and endearing, with Penelope's intelligence, determination, and compassion making her a particularly memorable and relatable protagonist. One of the strengths of "The Mysterious Howling" is its ability to balance the fantastical elements of the story with a grounded and believable setting. While the Incorrigible Children's wolf-like behavior is certainly unusual, Wood skillfully incorporates it into the larger narrative, using it to explore themes of identity, family, and what it means to be human. Overall, "The Mysterious Howling" is a charming and engaging read that will appeal to fans of classic children's literature, as well as those who enjoy contemporary middle-grade novels. Its clever plotting, memorable characters, and timeless themes make it a standout addition to any library or bookshelf.
Joan Aiken
The Wolves of Willoughby Chase
Fans of 'The Mysterious Howling' will appreciate the gothic atmosphere and thrilling adventure in 'The Wolves of Willoughby Chase'. In this classic children's novel, two cousins must outwit a wicked governess and a pack of hungry wolves to save their home.
Learn MoreFrances Hodgson Burnett
The Secret Garden
Like 'The Mysterious Howling', 'The Secret Garden' is a classic children's novel that explores the power of friendship and the natural world. Follow Mary Lennox as she discovers a hidden garden and brings it back to life, along the way learning about herself and the people around her.
Learn MoreRudyard Kipling
The Jungle Book
Fans of the wild and untamed children in 'The Mysterious Howling' will enjoy the tales of Mowgli, a boy raised by wolves in the Indian jungle. 'The Jungle Book' is a classic collection of stories that explores themes of identity, community, and the natural world.
Learn MoreGeorge Selden
The Cricket in Times Square
If you loved the animal characters in 'The Mysterious Howling', you'll enjoy this heartwarming tale of a cricket who befriends a streetwise mouse and a shy newsstand owner in New York City. 'The Cricket in Times Square' is a classic children's novel that explores themes of friendship, home, and belonging.
Learn MoreMargery Sharp
The Rescuers
Fans of the brave and resourceful animals in 'The Mysterious Howling' will enjoy this classic children's novel about a group of mice who rescue animals in need. 'The Rescuers' is a thrilling adventure that explores themes of courage, loyalty, and the power of friendship.
Learn MoreElizabeth Enright
The Saturdays
If you enjoyed the sense of adventure and camaraderie in 'The Mysterious Howling', you'll love this Newbery Medal-winning novel about four siblings who start a weekly outing fund and explore their city together. 'The Saturdays' is a heartwarming and engaging tale of family, friendship, and fun.
Learn MoreJeanne Birdsall
The Penderwicks
Fans of the warm and witty writing style of 'The Mysterious Howling' will enjoy this modern classic about four sisters who have a series of adventures during a summer vacation. 'The Penderwicks' is a charming and engaging tale of family, friendship, and growing up.
Learn MoreZilpha Keatley Snyder
The Changeling
If you enjoyed the spooky and mysterious elements of 'The Mysterious Howling', you'll love this classic children's novel about a girl who discovers that she is a changeling and must navigate a new world of magic and danger. 'The Changeling' is a thrilling and engaging tale of identity, belonging, and courage.
Learn MoreJohn Bellairs
The House with a Clock in Its Walls
Fans of the spooky and mysterious atmosphere of 'The Mysterious Howling' will enjoy this classic children's novel about a boy who moves into a haunted house and must uncover its secrets. 'The House with a Clock in Its Walls' is a thrilling and engaging tale of magic, mystery, and adventure.
Learn MoreKelly Barnhill
The Girl Who Drank the Moon
If you enjoyed the magical and mysterious elements of 'The Mysterious Howling', you'll love this Newbery Medal-winning novel about a girl who is accidentally fed moonlight as a baby and grows up to be a powerful witch. 'The Girl Who Drank the Moon' is a thrilling and engaging tale of magic, adventure, and the power of love.
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