“The Mystery of Grimly Manor” by Donna Wren Carson gets positive review from USRB

Donna Wren Carson’s book The Mystery of Grimly Manor has been praised by the US Review of Books.

The book follows the story of sixth graders Leira, Addy, and Skye as they band together to solve the mysteries of Grimly Manor.

Lights shine at night in the cemetery behind the manor, which is mysteriously decorated before every holiday while the rest of the neighborhood is asleep.

Mr. Grimly, who always wears a mask, opens his door only on Halloween to dole out candies to everyone roaming around for trick or treat.

Later, the girls go out of their way to meet Mr. Grimly. The book depicts real-world preteens and reflects wholesome family traditions.

Carson demonstrates her skills in developing strong characters, impressive dialogue, and convincing plot that will surely hold the readers’ attention as they flip the first page to the last.

Here’s an excerpt from the review:

“Carson expertly captures the innocence of girlhood and the comfort of friendship in a mostly idyllic neighborhood. The vibrant life cycle of the community is on full display through the first days of school, birthdays, holidays, snow days, and sleepovers. Lovingly rendered and in full detail, the girls’ lives leap from the page as they bond over shared interests. These good-hearted friends follow their curiosity and bring the shadow of Grimly Manor into the light when they learn the true story of Mr. Grimly and his parents. His story is tragic, but the girls respond with kindness and care, leading to a heartwarming conclusion. Sometimes kids are the ones that can break through years of misunderstanding and facades to see the truth of someone’s life and the toll exacted from terrible experiences. Uplifting and hopeful, this story of three friends begins with foreboding questions about an unusual house and ends with a moving narrative of sacrifice and pain.”