Eleven

By Patricia Reilly Giff

A boy uncovers a secret that questions his identity and must unravel the truth before time runs out.

3.5/5 Goodreads · 3,522 ratings

176 pages· 28,964 words· Est. 4 hour read

$7.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

Sam, nearly 11, finds a locked box hinting he was kidnapped. Haunted by dreams of castles and escapes, he questions if Mack is truly his grandfather. With Caroline's help, they race against time to decode the mystery before she moves away. Can they uncover the truth about Sam's past?

From the publisher

Sam must solve the mystery of who he really is. Sam is almost 11 when he discovers a locked box in the attic above his grandfather Mack’s room, and a piece of paper that says he was kidnapped. There are lots of other words, but Sam has always had trouble reading. He’s desperate to find out who he is, and if his beloved Mack is really his grandfather. At night he’s haunted by dreams of a big castle and a terrifying escape on a boat. Who can he trust to help him read the documents that could unravel the mystery? Then he and the new girl, Caroline, are paired up to work on a school project, building a castle in Mack’s woodworking shop. Caroline loves to read, and she can help. But she’s moving soon, and the two must hurry to discover the truth about Sam. ★ “This psychological mystery explores a child’s deepest genetic need for belonging. An engrossing examination of a profound theme in the deft hands of a discerning author.”–Kirkus Reviews, Starred ★ “Exquisitely rendered story of self-discovery. . . . Given the author’s expertise at developing sympathetic characters and creating a suspenseful plot, readers will find the complexity of Sam’ vulnerabilities to be asintriguing as the unfolding enigma of his past.”–Publishers Weekly, Starred

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