The House That Wasn't There by Arnold, Elana K.

"In this luminous story full of mystery and magic, Elana K. Arnold weaves a shimmering tapestry about the lovely and surprising ways we're connected to each other. Heart-healing, hopeful, and wonderfully inventive, this beautiful novel by a master storyteller is not to be missed." --Katherine Applegate, Newbery Medal-winning author of The One and Only Ivan

Alder has always lived in his cozy little house in Southern California. And for as long as he can remember, the old, reliable, comforting walnut tree has stood between his house and the one next door. That is, until a new family--with a particularly annoying girl his age--moves into the neighboring house and, without warning, cuts it down.

Oak doesn't understand why her family had to move to Southern California. She has to attend a new school, find new friends, and live in a new house that isn't even ready--her mother had to cut down a tree on their property line in order to make room for a second floor. And now a strange boy next door won't stop staring at her, like she did something wrong moving here in the first place.

As Oak and Alder start school together, they can't imagine ever becoming friends. But the two of them soon discover a series of connections between them--mysterious, possibly even magical puzzles they can't put together. At least not without each other's help.

Award-winning author Elana K. Arnold returns with an unforgettable story of the strange, wondrous threads that run between all of us, whether we know they're there or not.

Author: Elana K. Arnold
Publisher: Walden Pond Press
Published: 03/30/2021
Pages: 288
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.80lbs
Size: 8.30h x 5.60w x 1.20d
ISBN: 9780062937063
Audience: Ages 9-12

Accelerated Reader:
Reading Level: 5.7
Point Value: 9
Interest Level: Middle Grade
Quiz #/Name: 511574 / House That Wasn't There


Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 01/01/2021
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 02/01/2021
Publishers Weekly 02/08/2021
Booklist 02/15/2021 pg. 58
School Library Journal 03/01/2021 pg. 91
Horn Book Magazine 05/01/2021 pg. 130
Hornbook Guide to Children 01/01/2021 - Superior,Well Above Average