Goblin Secrets

Written by William Alexander

Book #1 in the Zombay series

A boy joins goblins to find his missing brother in a city where acting is forbidden.

3.5 Goodreads · 2,333 ratings

256 pages· 710L

$7.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

In Zombay, where acting is banned, young Rownie searches for his missing brother, Rowan. Escaping the clutches of the witch Graba, he joins a troupe of goblins who defy the law with their mysterious plays. As Rownie delves deeper into their world, he discovers that the goblins' performances hold secrets that could save the town from a looming flood. Will Rownie find Rowan in time, and can they together avert disaster? This enchanting tale weaves themes of family, courage, and the power of storytelling into a thrilling adventure.

From the publisher

In the National Book Award-winning Goblin Secrets, a boy joins a theatrical troupe of goblins to find his missing brother. In the town of Zombay, there is a witch named Graba who has clockwork chicken legs and moves her house around–much like the fairy tale figure of Baba Yaga. Graba takes in stray children, and Rownie is the youngest boy in her household. Rownie’s only real relative is his older brother Rowan, who is an actor. But acting is outlawed in Zombay, and Rowan has disappeared. Desperate to find him, Rownie joins up with a troupe of goblins who skirt the law to put on plays. But their plays are not only for entertainment, and the masks they use are for more than make-believe. The goblins also want to find Rowan–because Rowan might be the only person who can save the town from being flooded by a mighty river. This accessible, atmospheric fantasy takes a gentle look at love, loss, and family while delivering a fast-paced adventure that is sure to satisfy.