The Lifters

More about the book

Journey to an underground world where adventure awaits in this middle grade novel by a bestselling, Pulitzer-nominated author. When Gran and his family move to Carousel, he is unaware that the town conceals a secret beneath its surface. As he walks his sister to school or enjoys a banana, mysterious forces are at work below, causing the earth to tremble and the town to gradually sink. When Gran's friend, the adventurous Catalina Catalan, reveals a hidden doorway in a hillside, he realizes her bravery and knows he must follow her lead. Armed with luck and some discarded hockey sticks, Gran and Catalina embark on a quest to save their town and the world from impending danger. The author captivates readers with a tale that entertains and inspires. Critics praise the book for its adventure, mystery, humor, and heart, highlighting its themes of community, teamwork, and imagination. It is described as a cozy contemporary novel that skillfully blends humor with compassion, while maintaining brisk pacing through suspenseful, bite-sized chapters. This engaging story is a Junior Library Guild selection, appealing to readers of all ages.