82 pages • 2 hours read
Serafina and the Black Cloak
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
Biltmore Estate, North Carolina • 1890s
2015
Middle grade
9-12 years
850L
Super Short Summary
Serafina and the Black Cloak by Robert Beatty follows the adventures of 12-year-old Serafina, who secretly lives in the basement of the historic Biltmore Estate in 1899. When children start disappearing, Serafina discovers that the villain known as the Man in the Black Cloak is responsible and sets out to uncover his identity and stop him. Along the way, she learns about her mysterious origins and many unusual skills.
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Adventurous
Fantastical
Reviews & Readership
41,253 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Robert Beatty's Serafina and the Black Cloak skillfully blends mystery, fantasy, and historical elements, garnering praise for its compelling plot and atmospheric setting. The character of Serafina is highly engaging, though some critics noted the pacing can lag in parts. Overall, it's a captivating read for middle-grade audiences intrigued by supernatural adventure.
Who Should Read Serafina and the Black Cloak?
A reader who enjoys Serafina and the Black Cloak by Robert Beatty is likely a middle-grade student who loves historical mysteries, supernatural elements, and strong, young female protagonists. Similar readers might enjoy The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman and A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle.
41,253 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Pa
Pa
Serafina’s adoptive father, who rescued and raised her, providing protection and guidance as they live hidden within Biltmore’s confines. He is a caretaker and mentor, keeping Serafina's origins a secret to ensure her safety.
Braeden Vanderbilt
Braeden Vanderbilt
A wealthy, orphaned boy who befriends Serafina, offering her companionship and support. Despite social differences, his genuine kindness and love for animals parallel Serafina's own characteristics.
Mr. Thorne
Mr. Thorne
A mysterious guest at Biltmore known for his many skills and talents. He becomes a key figure in the narrative’s central mystery concerning the missing children.
Leandra
Leandra
Serafina’s mother and a shape-shifting creature able to transform between human and animal forms. Her connection to Serafina is crucial in understanding Serafina’s heritage and abilities.
Mr. and Mrs. Vanderbilt (George and Edith)
Mr. and Mrs. Vanderbilt (George and Edith)
The wealthy owners of the Biltmore estate, characterized by their generosity and openness. They provide shelter for Serafina and Pa, highlighting their kindness and gratitude for Serafina’s contributions.
320
Novel • Fiction
Biltmore Estate, North Carolina • 1890s
2015
Middle grade
9-12 years
850L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.