Very well written but darker than I expected. The blurb uses the word "harrowing" and I would agree that's accurate. Silas' story will stay with me for a long time and I'm glad I read it, but I was expecting more lightness and joy from the author of Wonder.
I could not put this book down! Although the story centers around a 12-year-old boy on a quest to find his father, it's an adventure suitable for all readers featuring unforgettable characters, real and otherworldly. The daguerreotypes at the beginning of each part are a nice historical touch. It's bittersweet so have tissues handy. A keeper for sure. 5 stars.