by Dan Chaon
First published 2025
Thirteen-year-old twins Bolt and Eleanor share an extraordinary bond that lets them read each other's thoughts. In 1915, after their mother's death, they're placed with Uncle Charlie, a brutal con man who claims to be their only remaining family. When Charlie kills a man during a poker game, the twins escape into the night. They find sanctuary with Mr. Jengling's Emporium of Wonders, a traveling carnival filled with remarkable performers like three-legged Minnie, towering Dr. Chui, and Rosalie, who can predict anyone's death. For the first time in their lives, Bolt and Eleanor belong to something larger than themselves. They cross the American frontier by train, watching audiences marvel at their new family's exhibitions. But as Bolt embraces this strange new world, Eleanor begins to withdraw from him. When Uncle Charlie tracks them down, the twins must confront a danger that threatens to destroy both their bond and their newfound home.
Genres: historical-fiction, 20th-century, adventure, coming-of-age, mystery, fantasy
Vibes: atmospheric, dark, emotional, suspenseful
Tropes: found-family, intimate, siblings
Setting: American Frontier, Emporium of Wonders
Period: 1915
278 pages · Kindle Edition · Henry Holt and Co.
Content warnings: abuse, violence