Series: Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children, #1
Publisher: Quirk Books
Released: June 7, 2011
Source: Borrowed from the Library

A mysterious island. An abandoned orphanage. A strange collection of very curious photographs.

It all waits to be discovered in Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, an unforgettable novel that mixes fiction and photography in a thrilling reading experience. As our story opens, a horrific family tragedy sets sixteen-year-old Jacob journeying to a remote island off the coast of Wales, where he discovers the crumbling ruins of Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. As Jacob explores its abandoned bedrooms and hallways, it becomes clear that the children were more than just peculiar. They may have been dangerous. They may have been quarantined on a deserted island for good reason. And somehow—impossible though it seems—they may still be alive.

A spine-tingling fantasy illustrated with haunting vintage photography, Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children will delight adults, teens, and anyone who relishes an adventure in the shadows.

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Sometimes it’s good to read outside the box. I can count the number of Young Adult books I’ve read on one hand, so MISS PEREGRINE’S HOME FOR PECULIAR CHILDREN is not something I’d typically pick up, but I’m glad I did. I gave it a chance just because I was intrigued by the title and was drawn in by the creepy cover, and I ended up greatly enjoying the story.

It’s difficult to categorize this book – maybe a Gothic fantasy? Not scary really, but overall there was a dark, eerie atmosphere that I loved. Plus the setting is a remote, rocky island off the coast of Wales, complete with spooky bogs and sharp, jagged cliffs which adds to the unease. And, at the heart of the book are these amazing unaltered vintage photographs, and the story is told around them. It’s very unique to say the least.

I don’t want to say much about the plot – just read the blurb. I knew very little about this book going in, and I think I enjoyed it even more with the element of surprise. A suspenseful mystery, strong, memorable characters, and an ominous setting make this a great read for adults as well as teens. Looking forward to the next book, Hollow City.

Rating: 4.25 Stars