51 pages • 1 hour read
225
Novel • Fiction
1992
YA
10-14 years
In The Thief of Always by Clive Barker, a bored young boy named Harvey Swick is lured to a seemingly perfect house that magically changes seasons each day, but he soon uncovers its dark secrets and ultimately seeks to escape its sinister grip. The book features the potentially distressing death of a pet cat.
Fantastical
Mysterious
Dark
Adventurous
Bittersweet
37,136 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Thief of Always by Clive Barker is a captivating children's fantasy novel lauded for its imaginative storytelling and haunting illustrations. The book has been praised for its compelling themes and vivid world-building. However, some critics feel the pacing is uneven and the conclusion abrupt. Overall, it’s a dark and enchanting read that resonates with both young and older audiences.
Readers who enjoy dark fantasy with moral undertones, like fans of Neil Gaiman’s Coraline or Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, will be captivated by Clive Barker’s The Thief of Always. This book is ideal for those who appreciate imaginative storytelling blended with lessons on desire and consequence.
37,136 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
225
Novel • Fiction
1992
YA
10-14 years
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