Bone Hollow

About this book

Gabe knows it was foolish to save that chicken. On the roof. In the middle of a storm. Yet Gabe also knows that his guardian, Ms. Cleo, loves the chicken more than him. After falling off the roof, Gabe wakes up to find his neighbors staring at him tearfully. To his confusion, none of them seem to hear Gabe speak. It's almost as if they think he's dead. But Gabe's NOT dead. He feels fine! So why does everyone scream in terror when he shows up to his own funeral?

Gabe flees with his dog, Ollie, the only creature who doesn't tremble at the sight of him. So when a mysterious girl named Wynne offers to let Gabe stay at her cozy house in a misty clearing, he gratefully accepts. Yet Wynne disappears from Bone Hollow for long stretches of time, and when a suspicious Gabe follows her, he makes a mind-blowing discovery. Wynne is Death and has been for thousands of years. Even more shocking . . . she's convinced that Gabe is destined to replace her.

Reviews

Praise for Bone Hollow

A New York Public Library Best Book for Kids 2019

“Set in the rural South, the syrup-soaked, rich imagery is a sensory delight. Gabe’s voice is distinct, and the evolution of his conflict reinforces the humanity amid the magic. A heck of a good read about the bright side of some durn bad luck.” –Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"Ventrella fearlessly tackles the sensitive subject of death for a middle grade audience.” –Booklist

Praise for Skeleton Tree

“[An] emotional roller coaster tempered by a touch of magic and a resilient, likable protagonist.” —Kirkus Reviews

"Kim Ventrella knows when to be playful and when to break your heart.” —Cassie Beasley, NYT-bestselling author of Circus Mirandus

“Like Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief, Skeleton Tree upends the myth of the Grim Reaper. Scary, sad, funny and always so, so sweet, Skeleton Tree will haunt me and remind me that life is miraculous when it’s rooted in hope and empathy.” —Paul Griffin, author When Friendship Followed Me Home

“Ventrella’s comforting storytelling reveals a magical world where a skeleton can grow and where a family’s love for each other can provide healing.” —School Library Journal

"Quietly powerful; dark yet whimsical . . .” —Booklist

Praise for The Secret Life of Sam

"The magic is rooted in evocative descriptions and strong emotions. Magically mesmerizing and moving." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Praise for Hello, Future Me

"This light fantasy eases the tension of a tough topic." —Kirkus Reviews

“A perfectly magical story packed with twists, energy and charm!” –Janet Fox, award-winning author of The Charmed Children of Rookskill Castle

“A sensitive story filled with humor, adventure and characters you want to hug. A wonderful read for all.” —Samantha M. Clark, author of The Boy, The Boat and the Beast

“Hello, Future Me is quite simply one of the most charming, and heartwarming books that I’ve read in a while. June is a wonderful protagonist who really makes you pull for her, and Tanglewood is the kind of small town that you immediately picture when reading about it. Tackles some difficult themes in a relatable way, and has everything you can ask for in a book. Mystery, magic, laughs, tears, and oh, did I mention Big Foot? Get this book and start reading TODAY!” –Jonathan Rosen, author of Night of the Living Cuddle Bunnies