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45 pages 1 hour read

Midnight for Charlie Bone: The Children of the Red King #1

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2002

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Book Brief

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Jenny Nimmo

Midnight for Charlie Bone

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2002
Book Details
Pages

345

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • Early 2000s

Publication Year

2002

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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Super Short Summary

In Midnight for Charlie Bone by Jenny Nimmo, a young boy discovers his inherited magical abilities and is sent to Bloor's Academy, a school for children with special powers. As he navigates this new world, he encounters unique characters and uncovers hidden family secrets.

Mysterious

Fantastical

Adventurous

Suspenseful

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Midnight for Charlie Bone by Jenny Nimmo receives praise for its fast-paced narrative and imaginative world-building. Readers appreciate the engaging plot and relatable young protagonist. However, some critics argue that the book lacks originality and is derivative of other popular fantasy series. Nonetheless, it serves as an entertaining and accessible read for middle-grade audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Midnight for Charlie Bone?

Readers who relish magical adventures and school settings akin to Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling will enjoy Midnight for Charlie Bone by Jenny Nimmo. Ideal for middle-grade readers, the book features a young protagonist discovering his supernatural heritage and navigating a mysterious academy, reminiscent of The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis.

Character List

Charlie Bone

A young boy with hair described as "like a hedge," who lives with his family and discovers he possesses unusual abilities related to photographs.

Also known as Emilia Moon, she is a blonde, blue-eyed girl at the heart of the book’s mystery, known for her artistic talent and unique powers.

Charlie’s reclusive great-uncle, who isolates himself due to the effects of his unusual endowment on electrical lights.

The head boy at Bloor's Academy, characterized by his long, narrow face and coal-black eyes, with powers that align with his family's ruthless behavior.

Charlie’s best friend and neighbor with dirty blond hair, who, though not endowed, plays a vital role by providing support and a safe space.

The youngest at Bloor's Academy, distinguished by his albinism and ability to communicate with animals, which leads to complex relationships.

A group of sisters, each with distinct characteristics and roles: Grizelda is controlling, Lucretia monitors Bloor's Academy, Eustacia predicts the future, and Venetia creates enchanted garments.

Book Details
Pages

345

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • Early 2000s

Publication Year

2002

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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