Description

In a creaky old house on a small, damp island, someone – or something – is waiting…

A Sunday Times Children’s Book of the Week

“Thrillingly scary and impossible to put down. Don’t read it alone!” Jonathan Stroud, author of Lockwood & Co

A grieving family. A decaying house. A babysitter with a monstrous secret. Nothing on Gloam Island is quite what it seems…

Gwen doesn’t need anyone to help her look after her younger siblings. And she isn’t fooled by the beautiful babysitter with the hungry eyes and sharp teeth. But everyone else is. So if Gwen wants Esme Laverne gone, she’ll have to handle it herself.

As Esme’s power grows, Gwen must embrace her deepest fears before she can defeat the monster in her home for good.

Because as everyone knows, it’s impossible to be brave unless you’re already afraid.

Publisher Review

“The first time I read this book, I was so frightened I hid under the bed – and read it again.” Lemony Snicket, author of A Series of Unfortunate Events ‘a gripping and creepy novel with a monster so terrifying readers will be shivering in their beds. An excellent debut.’ Bookseller ‘a brilliantly terrifying treat about a babysitter who is not what she seems.’ Charlotte Eyre, Bookseller ‘Thrilling and chilling, with a standout protagonist.’ Kirkus Reviews ‘So scary I may never sleep again.’ Rose, age 10 ‘This is an amazing book. But beware – it might make you jump out of your skin!’ Khalil, age 10 ‘A sumptuously sinister tale that is thoroughly spine-chilling, yet utterly heart-warming. I had both goosebumps and throat lumps whilst reading it!’ Hana Tooke, author of The Unadoptables ‘Gloam Island is not a place for the faint-hearted. You think you know scary? Think again! Jack Mackay’s debut is a seriously spooky, chilly nightmare of a book. I dare you to read it after dark…’ Keith Gray, author of Ostrich Boys ‘seriously spooky … not afraid to be truly frightening.’ Sophie Cleverly, author of The Violet Veil Mysteries “A spooky tale that will put you off babysitters for life … Fun, frightening, the perfect cozy day read.” Phil Hickes, author of The Shadowhall Academy series. ‘For older 10+ year old fans of horror, this is a thrilling tale of monsters, battling evil and sibling unity… a genuinely terrifying tale with a message about families, bravery and fighting your own nightmares.’ School Reading List