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52 pages 1 hour read

The Strangers

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Margaret Peterson Haddix

The Strangers

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Suburban Ohio • Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

730L

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Super Short Summary

The Strangers by Margaret Peterson Haddix follows siblings Chess, Emma, and Finn Greystone, who, after learning of kidnapped children in Arizona who share their names and birthdates, discover their mother is connected to this mystery and disappears. With the help of Ms. Morales’s daughter, Natalie, they uncover a secret that leads them to an alternate universe, compelling them to mount a rescue operation. The book contains themes of kidnapping and authoritarianism.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Adventurous

Emotional

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.2

12,913 ratings

69%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Readers of Margaret Peterson Haddix's The Strangers appreciate its intriguing premise and fast-paced storytelling, particularly noting the strong character development and engaging plot twists. However, some found the narrative occasionally confusing and wished for more depth in certain aspects. Overall, it is praised for its originality and appeal to middle-grade audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Strangers?

Readers who enjoyed the mystery and adventure of The Mysterious Benedict Society or the family dynamics in A Series of Unfortunate Events will be captivated by Margaret Peterson Haddix's The Strangers. This book appeals to middle-grade readers who love thrilling plots, clever problem-solving, and strong sibling bonds.

4.2

12,913 ratings

69%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Chess Greystone

The eldest Greystone child at age 12, Chess takes on the responsibility of caretaker for his younger siblings after their mother's disappearance. He balances his childhood with adult responsibilities as they navigate mysterious circumstances.

At ten years old, Emma sees the world through numbers and logic, using her analytical skills to help unravel puzzles related to their mother's whereabouts. Her rational mindset is challenged by the unfolding mystery.

Eight-year-old Finn is adventurous and impulsive, often seeing their predicament as an exciting game. His youthful perspective and bond with his mother drive his actions during their quest.

Kate is the mother of Chess, Emma, and Finn, enigmatic due to the story being told through the children's eyes. Her disappearance sets off the events of the plot.

Thirteen-year-old Natalie, daughter of the woman caring for the Greystone children, evolves from a sullen teenager to a valuable ally as she becomes curious about the unfolding mystery.

Natalie's mother, tasked with caring for the Greystone children, she is depicted as a hardworking single mother who juggles her responsibilities while trying to connect with her daughter.

A mysterious character first known as a voice on the phone who assists the children with navigating challenges in an alternate universe. His role is to guide and provide essential exposition.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Suburban Ohio • Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

730L

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