The House With a Clock in Its Walls
The House With a Clock in Its Walls
Book Brief
179
Novel • Fiction
New Zebedee, Michigan • 1950s
1973
Middle grade
8-12 years
800L
Super Short Summary
In The House With a Clock in Its Walls by John Bellairs, ten-year-old Lewis Barnavelt, after being orphaned, moves to New Zebedee, Michigan, to live with his mysterious Uncle Jonathon, who turns out to be a warlock. Lewis discovers his uncle's house hides a clock with a sinister purpose and becomes entangled in a magical adventure to prevent an evil plot from resurrecting and destroying the world.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Suspenseful
Unnerving
Adventurous
Reviews & Readership
22,579 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
John Bellairs' The House with a Clock in Its Walls is praised for its gothic atmosphere, engaging plot, and rich character development, making it a beloved entry in children's horror fiction. Some critics noted that the pacing occasionally lags, and the dense descriptions may not appeal to all young readers. Overall, it's a charming and spooky adventure that captures the imagination.
Who Should Read The House With a Clock in Its Walls?
Readers who enjoy The House With a Clock in Its Walls by John Bellairs are typically younger audiences who relish a mix of fantasy, mystery, and Gothic elements. Fans of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series and Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events will find similar enchantment and suspense in Bellairs' work.
22,579 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The House With a Clock in Its Walls was the first book in the Lewis Barnavelt series, marking John Bellairs’ foray into the genre of gothic horror for children, published in 1973.
The book is known for its cover and interior illustrations by Edward Gorey, a celebrated artist known for his macabre and whimsical style, which perfectly complements the eerie yet playful tone of the story.
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The story was inspired by Bellairs' own experiences and interests, combining elements of his fascination with magic, mystery, and old mysterious houses.
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179
Novel • Fiction
New Zebedee, Michigan • 1950s
1973
Middle grade
8-12 years
800L
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