logo

44 pages 1 hour read

The Secret Zoo

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2007

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.

Book Brief

logo
Bryan Chick

The Secret Zoo

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

308

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Clarksville, Indiana • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2007

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

800L

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Secret Zoo by Bryan Chick is about Megan, Noah, Ella, and Richie, who uncover hidden secrets within the Clarksville City Zoo after Megan's mysterious disappearance. Guided by clues, Noah and his friends discover a hidden world where animals talk and embark on a mission to rescue Megan from the enigmatic Dark Lands, ultimately encountering magical creatures and forming bonds that lead them to reconsider their place in an ancient Secret Society.

Mysterious

Adventurous

Fantastical

Exciting

Playful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

11,857 ratings

81%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Bryan Chick's The Secret Zoo captivates young readers with its imaginative plot and captivating adventure. The book is praised for its creativity and ability to engage children, though some critics note that the writing style can be somewhat simplistic and the plot predictable at times. Overall, it's a charming introduction to fantasy for middle-grade readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Secret Zoo?

Readers who loved The Chronicles of Narnia or The Magic Tree House series will enjoy The Secret Zoo by Bryan Chick. This adventurous tale, featuring hidden worlds and brave children, is perfect for middle-grade readers who crave mystery and excitement in an imaginative setting.

4.4

11,857 ratings

81%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Noah Nowicki

Noah is the main protagonist of the story, who embarks on a quest to rescue his younger sister, Megan. He is characterized by his loyalty to friends and his focus on adventure but is sometimes blind to the help he receives from others.

Ella is Noah’s courageous and loyal friend who often acts as a sidekick, complementing his skills and offering a collaborative perspective through their shared adventures. She is adventurous and curious, often leading the way with her bold explorations.

Richie is the thoughtful and cautious member of the group who tends to rely on intellect and knowledge. He complements Ella and provides guidance through problem-solving and reflection during the group’s challenges.

The Shadow Master is the elusive and mysterious antagonist, whose presence poses a looming threat. Though seldom seen, he is a shadowy figure linked with a broader, mysterious narrative that unfolds throughout the series.

Megan is Noah’s sister, whose disappearance drives the primary quest of the story. Her open-mindedness and intelligence are vital, as she leaves clues for the others, and her character is revealed through her diary entries and others’ perspectives.

Book Details
Pages

308

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Clarksville, Indiana • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2007

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

800L

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.