The Stitchers

July 1, 2020

Gr 5 Up-Something strange is happening on Goodie Lane, and 13-year-old Quinn Parker is on the case. She and her police officer father had myriad theories about "the Oldies" on the cul-de-sac-neighbors who only seem to get younger and spryer with time-but now that he's dead, Quinn's taken to secretly investigating with the help of her neighbor, Mike Warren. As summer vacation approaches, things quickly take a turn for the dark and sinister. Will Quinn and Mike be able to solve the mystery of Goodie Lane before the Oldies can stop them? This debut thriller is certain to leave readers eager for a good scare wanting more, which is perfect considering it's the first in a new series. While Quinn's theories range from vampires to mad scientists (not as far off as one might think), her seeming flights of fancy are tempered by Mike's scientific mind, giving the story a more realistic feel. And while a budding romance between the two is hinted at, this element is secondary and sweetly innocent. Mike is Black; all other characters present as white. VERDICT A truly creepy read, perfect for fans of "Goosebumps" and Stranger Things. Recommended purchase.-Kaitlin Frick, Darien Lib., CT

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2020
Goodie Lane is a cul-de-sac of deadly secrets. Seventh graders Parker and Mike investigate why their neighbors, the Oldies of Goodie Lane, never appear to age. Things turn otherworldly when Parker notices that Mr. Brown, who formerly tottered down the street, is suddenly outpacing the duo on their morning runs and has a distinctive scar on his calf--one in the exact spot and shape as her deceased runner father. As the duo work to solve the mystery, a glowing pond and a drowning victim from years past may provide deadly answers. While cover appeal will draw in young readers and remind Millennial caregivers of the creepy delights of Fear Street, the story's plot pales in comparison. Readers are denied the false sense of normalcy and many subsequent peaks and valleys of suspicion because the story starts after Parker and Mike have begun their investigation. Tantalizing subplots, from Ms. Bea's mysterious facial lotions and Grandma Jane's witchy herbal creations, are never explored or fleshed out, which may frustrate more than titillate. Savvy readers will always be a few steps ahead of the protagonists, whose motivations are sometimes confusing and investigatory skills are lacking. A sequel is suggested in the final pages, hopefully one with more answers. Parker is white, and Mike is black. Amusing but amateurish. (Horror. 11-13)

COPYRIGHT(2020) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

July 6, 2020
Following her policeman father’s untimely death, 13-year-old Quinn Parker vows to discover the secret behind the Oldies—a group of seemingly unaging elderly neighbors in whom her dad was interested. She’s convinced there’s a supernatural influence behind their youthful appearance; fellow seventh grader Mike Warren is certain it’s scientific. Their curiosity is particularly piqued when octogenarian Mr. Brown becomes a strong runner overnight—one who bears the exact same calf scar as Quinn’s late father. Determined to learn the truth, the intrepid pair delve into the long and eerie history of the neighborhood, entering into a fake relationship as “the perfect cover” for the time they spend together. But as they investigate, the Oldies take an increased interest in Quinn and Mike, adding extra danger to the case. With this creepy debut, Lawrence pits her heroes against a generational power imbalance and the unsettling, universally recognizable fear of aging. While readers may guess the Oldies’ true nature before the revelation, the antagonists are satisfyingly menacing, and Quinn’s struggles—grieving her father’s death, juggling friendships—ground this series opener, giving it a healthy dose of heart. Ages 10–14. Agent: Kathleen Rushall, Andrea Brown Literary.