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Finch House
Encanto meets Coraline in this “supremely successful, atmospheric” ( Kirkus Reviews ) middle grade story that deals with family ties, fear of change, and generational trauma as it follows a girl who must convince an old, haunted house to release its hold on her and her family.
Eleven-year-old Micah has no interest in moving out of her grandfather’s house. She loves living with Poppop and their shared hobby of driving around rich neighborhoods to find treasures in others’ trash. To avoid packing, Micah goes for a bike ride and ends up at Finch House, the decrepit Victorian that Poppop says is Off Limits. Except when she gets there, it’s all fixed up and there’s a boy named Theo in the front yard. Surely that means Finch House isn’t Off Limits anymore? But when Poppop finds her there, Micah is only met with his disappointment.
By the next day, Poppop is nowhere to be found. After searching everywhere, Micah’s instincts lead her back to Finch House. But once Theo invites her inside, Micah realizes she can’t leave. And that, with its strange whispers and deep-dark shadows, Finch House isn’t just a house…it’s alive.
Can Micah find a way to convince the house to let her go? Or will she be forced to stay in Finch House forever?
Eleven-year-old Micah has no interest in moving out of her grandfather’s house. She loves living with Poppop and their shared hobby of driving around rich neighborhoods to find treasures in others’ trash. To avoid packing, Micah goes for a bike ride and ends up at Finch House, the decrepit Victorian that Poppop says is Off Limits. Except when she gets there, it’s all fixed up and there’s a boy named Theo in the front yard. Surely that means Finch House isn’t Off Limits anymore? But when Poppop finds her there, Micah is only met with his disappointment.
By the next day, Poppop is nowhere to be found. After searching everywhere, Micah’s instincts lead her back to Finch House. But once Theo invites her inside, Micah realizes she can’t leave. And that, with its strange whispers and deep-dark shadows, Finch House isn’t just a house…it’s alive.
Can Micah find a way to convince the house to let her go? Or will she be forced to stay in Finch House forever?
224 pages, Paperback
First published September 5, 2023
12 people are currently reading
4422 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
October 14, 2023
Finished my first ghost story for Halloween month. The audiobook was good. The adventures inside Finch House was a bit too long for me. I actually want to see more of Micah's treasure hunting with her grandpa whom she called Poppop. And her collection of what she already found.
This story followed Micah, 11 years old. Micah, her mom, and her mom's dad were living together under one roof. As the story started, Micah was supposed to be packing up. She and her mom are getting their own place. Micah likes to ride her bike around the neighborhood. One day when she was out riding, she found herself stopping in front of Finch House, a house the neighbors said to be haunted. Also a house she promised her grandpa long ago that she will stay away from. But when she was there, a boy her age was outside playing in the snow. One event leads to another and Micah ended up inside Finch House.
She went to the house in search of one thing then later more. She found herself inside the house getting lost, finding more than she bargained for. I went back to read the ending because I felt I didn't understand what had happened. The ending was good and unexpected.
The story ended with a sort of cliffhanger. I'm thinking there will be book 2.
Thank you SimonKids for the opportunity to read and review. Thank you Simon Audio for the complimentary audiobook to listen and review.
This story followed Micah, 11 years old. Micah, her mom, and her mom's dad were living together under one roof. As the story started, Micah was supposed to be packing up. She and her mom are getting their own place. Micah likes to ride her bike around the neighborhood. One day when she was out riding, she found herself stopping in front of Finch House, a house the neighbors said to be haunted. Also a house she promised her grandpa long ago that she will stay away from. But when she was there, a boy her age was outside playing in the snow. One event leads to another and Micah ended up inside Finch House.
She went to the house in search of one thing then later more. She found herself inside the house getting lost, finding more than she bargained for. I went back to read the ending because I felt I didn't understand what had happened. The ending was good and unexpected.
The story ended with a sort of cliffhanger. I'm thinking there will be book 2.
Thank you SimonKids for the opportunity to read and review. Thank you Simon Audio for the complimentary audiobook to listen and review.
September 4, 2023
a very gripping spooky house story! And it was just the right length for a single sitting at 193 pages of generously sized font so perfect for a satisfying afternoon break for a person who is working on old house and overgrown garden, or for its intended audience of 10-12 year olds. I'd give it to a slightly younger kid too--it's scary but not in your face nightmare scary.
October 29, 2023
A super fun, eerie, exciting and atmospheric haunted house mystery, with a lovely focus on friendship, history and the relationships with siblings and grandparents.
Highly recommend for readers of all ages looking for a creepy, yet heartwarming adventure.
Highly recommend for readers of all ages looking for a creepy, yet heartwarming adventure.
December 28, 2023
I don’t get this book. Why did Poppop leave Jenn at Finch house? How did “dozens” of children go missing at this house and it wasn’t razed? I admit to having trouble suspending disbelief, but this story just didn’t make any sense to me.
October 28, 2023
“Few people go near the things that frighten them.”
I'd like to thank Simon & Schuster for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I've also posted this review on Instagram and my blog.
Instagram Post
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Content Warnings: grief, death, forced confinement
This was a spooky middle grade read! Finch House has a great haunting atmosphere. The suspense gradually builds up, which keeps you on the edge of your seat. I also enjoyed learning more about the characters, especially Micah. Throughout the course of the book, we see Micah grow into her confidence. We also got some background on the other kids stuck at the house from the past. Speaking of the past, I liked the development of the history and the origins of Finch House. However, I was a bit confused with the magic system and would have liked more explanation about how the house worked. The ending left on a bit of a cliffhanger which added even more to the creepy undertones of the book. I recommend this to fans of Coraline!
I'd like to thank Simon & Schuster for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I've also posted this review on Instagram and my blog.
Instagram Post
Blog Post
Content Warnings: grief, death, forced confinement
This was a spooky middle grade read! Finch House has a great haunting atmosphere. The suspense gradually builds up, which keeps you on the edge of your seat. I also enjoyed learning more about the characters, especially Micah. Throughout the course of the book, we see Micah grow into her confidence. We also got some background on the other kids stuck at the house from the past. Speaking of the past, I liked the development of the history and the origins of Finch House. However, I was a bit confused with the magic system and would have liked more explanation about how the house worked. The ending left on a bit of a cliffhanger which added even more to the creepy undertones of the book. I recommend this to fans of Coraline!
January 3, 2025
I loved Micah’s journey through Finch House and all its ripples out into her life. Ciera has crafted a perfect middle grade novel with just the right amount of spookiness to match all of its bold, beating heart! 💓
October 23, 2023
Fun and spooky middle grade that also brings some social horror commentary.
Tarot card: page of wands
Tarot card: page of wands
September 5, 2023
While this book is touted as Encanto meets Coraline, this book gave me Monster House meets Haunted Mansion vibes.
11 year old Micah doesn’t want to move from her Poppop’s house, so instead of packing, she finds herself at Finch House…the one place she’s forbidden to go. When her Poppop disappears the next day, Micah finds herself back at Finch House, but after her new friend Theo invites her in, she realizes that she can’t leave.
I absolutely loved Micah and her determination. I also loved the incredible relationship that she has with his grandfather and their hobby of collecting/repurposing things together.
The family secrets in this one was WILD, and I was on the edge of my seat as Micah and Theo work their way through the mysterious connection between Finch House and Micah’s family.
I’m always such a fan of settings as character, and Finch House was most definitely that. The vibes of that decrepit Victorian House were spot on!
And for the audiobook lovers, this one is narrated by Joniece Abbott-Pratt who does an incredible job.
Thank you to Simon Kids and Simon Audio for my review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
11 year old Micah doesn’t want to move from her Poppop’s house, so instead of packing, she finds herself at Finch House…the one place she’s forbidden to go. When her Poppop disappears the next day, Micah finds herself back at Finch House, but after her new friend Theo invites her in, she realizes that she can’t leave.
I absolutely loved Micah and her determination. I also loved the incredible relationship that she has with his grandfather and their hobby of collecting/repurposing things together.
The family secrets in this one was WILD, and I was on the edge of my seat as Micah and Theo work their way through the mysterious connection between Finch House and Micah’s family.
I’m always such a fan of settings as character, and Finch House was most definitely that. The vibes of that decrepit Victorian House were spot on!
And for the audiobook lovers, this one is narrated by Joniece Abbott-Pratt who does an incredible job.
Thank you to Simon Kids and Simon Audio for my review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
August 22, 2023
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT8F5dpjQ/
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4/5 STARS
Genre: Middle Grade Mystery/Horror
Similar Books:
Coraline
The Carrefour Curse
Synopsis:
A girl tries to convince a haunted house to release her family from its prison.
This is a spooky middle grade book. Think Encanto, but creepy! It is a very fast paced, fun read. Perfect for fall and Halloween. I love a story about a house with secret doors and hidden rooms. There are a few ghosts and some age appropriate suspense. Would definitely read more from this author!
Thank you Simon Kids for the gifted copy! 🏚️👻
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4/5 STARS
Genre: Middle Grade Mystery/Horror
Similar Books:
Coraline
The Carrefour Curse
Synopsis:
A girl tries to convince a haunted house to release her family from its prison.
This is a spooky middle grade book. Think Encanto, but creepy! It is a very fast paced, fun read. Perfect for fall and Halloween. I love a story about a house with secret doors and hidden rooms. There are a few ghosts and some age appropriate suspense. Would definitely read more from this author!
Thank you Simon Kids for the gifted copy! 🏚️👻
September 3, 2023
This is a nice spooky story that's unique. I think it has a unique take on a haunted house story and is perfect for those who enjoy haunted house stories that aren't gory. I liked how it still maintained an eerie atmosphere but wasn't gory. It's a well done haunted house story. Special Thank You to Ciera Burch, Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy prior to publication in exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for the ARC of this! I am catching up on some already released titles that I had left to review and also listened to the audio of this one from my library.
This was perfectly comped to Coraline, it was nice and spooky. I really liked how close the MC was with her grandpa and the searching for cool items at the curb that they did together.
This was perfectly comped to Coraline, it was nice and spooky. I really liked how close the MC was with her grandpa and the searching for cool items at the curb that they did together.
August 11, 2023
Coraline fans can rejoice because Finch House is the perfect spooky read for any young reader looking for a haunted house story. Not only is it filled with all your favorite creepy tropes, but it also teaches us that change can be good.
March 9, 2024
Well, hey! Creepy suspense books for middle grade are getting good and creepy. This is another one that had me holding my breath at times.
We’ve come a long way from RL Stine’s Fear Street and Goosebumps. (Fear Street was my OBSESSION as a preteen)
We’ve come a long way from RL Stine’s Fear Street and Goosebumps. (Fear Street was my OBSESSION as a preteen)
August 12, 2024
this had a super cool concept but unfortunately wasn’t nearly explored enough! it was short and felt too rushed for me. the story definitely could’ve been longer and more fleshed out. to each their own but i didn’t love this one
October 20, 2024
The start was a little confusing, but once Theo and Finch House made an appearance it was a good, spooky tale that wasn't too scary, but definitely creepy enough to make you listen closely to any sounds around you with a careful ear
January 22, 2024
Solid story with a spooky middle. The ending seemed a bit muddled.
May 12, 2024
Good book to listen to with your tween.
September 3, 2023
A great middle grade pick for spooky season or your spooky genre loving reader!
I’m a sucker for a house as a main character and this one delivered. With comparisons to a spooky Encanto… the Finch House has secret doors, hidden rooms & ghostly haunts. Atmospheric and moody! Great for those seeking a shorter read and one that delivers a solid spooky story!
Thank you to the publisher for an early copy!
I’m a sucker for a house as a main character and this one delivered. With comparisons to a spooky Encanto… the Finch House has secret doors, hidden rooms & ghostly haunts. Atmospheric and moody! Great for those seeking a shorter read and one that delivers a solid spooky story!
Thank you to the publisher for an early copy!
Read
November 11, 2023Great book! I loved the story and the vibes- spooky but not too scary. Fascinating concept and I would read more if this was ever a series!
October 26, 2023
I know that books are compared to other books to cultivate hype, but boy did this one shoot itself in the foot. Since it was recommended for fans of Coraline I inevitably could not stop comparing it to Coraline the entire time I was reading.
Coraline is one of my absolute favorite pieces of media of all time. Therefore, I knew going in that I was ridiculously biased and likely to be a bit hard on Finch House. Still, I decided to read anyways because it’s not like Coraline owns the concept and Finch House could, at the very least, provide a good story even if it's not life changing.
The story I received was only okay.
There wasn't really a mystery. Micah didn't have to go searching for clues or putting pieces together to figure out what was going on. Once she made it into the house the story became far less interesting. To compare this to Coraline there isn't a question of Coraline figuring out the mystery of the house. It's simply a spooky happening that is affecting her in the moment that the reader is peeking in on. Coraline doesn't need to know why everything is going on because it's not important to her succeeding in the end.
This book never explains why the house operates the way it does, which is fine, but it does have explicit reasons for why the disappearances have been occurring and what is going on right now. As such, it's rather dull that there aren't any puzzles or riddles or something for Micah to investigate.
The only thing Micah is required to do is make a deal with the house which was super anticlimactic because in spite of the villain telling her she couldn't just get everything she wanted she didn't have to actually give anything up.
She didn't lose anything. Coraline risked herself being stuck in the Other World as the Other Mothers' puppet until it killed her. Micah does not offer up anything remotely close to that. She is given the opportunity to sidestep the villain entirely too by just going to the source which undermined the whole concept of this evil antagonistic force in the first place. No one was above the Other Mother. That's what made her scary.
I think the 'Encanto' part of the blurb is what hurt the book. If it had been a straightforward evil ghost story I think it would have been more fun. Restricted as it was by the villain being a relative meant she couldn't really unleash unbridled chaos onto the narrative if Burch wanted her to be redeemed in the end.
I loved the concept of this story, but I did not feel like it took full advantage of its setting. Like there's a whole house of ghosts from various time periods and Micah talks to 2 for like a page a piece. Why not make up some trials or a competition or something involving these people? Let's see how slang or dress has changed. Use those ghosts to slowly unravel the villains' web of lies rather than resort to her monologuing to Micah. Spike the tension by having the ghosts who get too close to Micah fade away (inexplicably from her perspective).
Coraline doesn't need further exploration because it's so limited in scope. Finch House introduces too much to do so little. I'd have preferred if Finch House was more apathetic and simply ate people because it lacked any kind of morality (since it's y'know a house?) and there were no ghosts trapped at all.
I want to make it clear that even though I mentioned Coraline a lot in this review, I would have felt the same if Coraline wasn't brought into the conversation at all. Coraline is just an easy way to frame my review of the book since a direct parallel was drawn between the two.
On its own, Finch House is a decent book. It’s well written in terms of prose, I enjoyed reading about a Black main character in a genre they do not often get to shine in, and I liked the history sprinkled in as the foundation for the tragic backstory of the villain. Major spoiler related to reveal ->
I wish it was cooked a bit longer, nevertheless, I absolutely would still read another book by Ciera Burch based on what I saw from her here.
Coraline is one of my absolute favorite pieces of media of all time. Therefore, I knew going in that I was ridiculously biased and likely to be a bit hard on Finch House. Still, I decided to read anyways because it’s not like Coraline owns the concept and Finch House could, at the very least, provide a good story even if it's not life changing.
The story I received was only okay.
There wasn't really a mystery. Micah didn't have to go searching for clues or putting pieces together to figure out what was going on. Once she made it into the house the story became far less interesting. To compare this to Coraline there isn't a question of Coraline figuring out the mystery of the house. It's simply a spooky happening that is affecting her in the moment that the reader is peeking in on. Coraline doesn't need to know why everything is going on because it's not important to her succeeding in the end.
This book never explains why the house operates the way it does, which is fine, but it does have explicit reasons for why the disappearances have been occurring and what is going on right now. As such, it's rather dull that there aren't any puzzles or riddles or something for Micah to investigate.
The only thing Micah is required to do is make a deal with the house which was super anticlimactic because in spite of the villain telling her she couldn't just get everything she wanted she didn't have to actually give anything up.
She didn't lose anything. Coraline risked herself being stuck in the Other World as the Other Mothers' puppet until it killed her. Micah does not offer up anything remotely close to that. She is given the opportunity to sidestep the villain entirely too by just going to the source which undermined the whole concept of this evil antagonistic force in the first place. No one was above the Other Mother. That's what made her scary.
I think the 'Encanto' part of the blurb is what hurt the book. If it had been a straightforward evil ghost story I think it would have been more fun. Restricted as it was by the villain being a relative meant she couldn't really unleash unbridled chaos onto the narrative if Burch wanted her to be redeemed in the end.
I loved the concept of this story, but I did not feel like it took full advantage of its setting. Like there's a whole house of ghosts from various time periods and Micah talks to 2 for like a page a piece. Why not make up some trials or a competition or something involving these people? Let's see how slang or dress has changed. Use those ghosts to slowly unravel the villains' web of lies rather than resort to her monologuing to Micah. Spike the tension by having the ghosts who get too close to Micah fade away (inexplicably from her perspective).
Coraline doesn't need further exploration because it's so limited in scope. Finch House introduces too much to do so little. I'd have preferred if Finch House was more apathetic and simply ate people because it lacked any kind of morality (since it's y'know a house?) and there were no ghosts trapped at all.
I want to make it clear that even though I mentioned Coraline a lot in this review, I would have felt the same if Coraline wasn't brought into the conversation at all. Coraline is just an easy way to frame my review of the book since a direct parallel was drawn between the two.
On its own, Finch House is a decent book. It’s well written in terms of prose, I enjoyed reading about a Black main character in a genre they do not often get to shine in, and I liked the history sprinkled in as the foundation for the tragic backstory of the villain. Major spoiler related to reveal ->
I wish it was cooked a bit longer, nevertheless, I absolutely would still read another book by Ciera Burch based on what I saw from her here.
August 13, 2023
Rounding up from 2.5 stars because it's relatively well written middle grade semi-horror.
There's a brief discussion of redlining here, which I wish had been explored a little more. The whole weirdness about the house was confusing, but YMMV. No spoilers beyond saying that when you're dealing with a decrepit Victorian house... run.
ARC provided by publisher.
There's a brief discussion of redlining here, which I wish had been explored a little more. The whole weirdness about the house was confusing, but YMMV. No spoilers beyond saying that when you're dealing with a decrepit Victorian house... run.
ARC provided by publisher.
November 4, 2023
Underwhelming
Good mystery, but very one dimensional characters, no real threats, and too easy conclusion.
Good mystery, but very one dimensional characters, no real threats, and too easy conclusion.
September 3, 2023
Micha is eleven years old. She lives in Poppop’s grandfather) house with her mother. Pop pop and Micah go out together to search for treasure in the trash of rich homes left on the curb. One time they drive down a road not normally driven on and Poppop tells her never to go near that house (named Finch house) and turns his truck around quickly as if he is afraid of that house. Micah wonders why but any questions she asks are not answere by Poppop. In fact he makes her promise to not go there and she says yes. Will she keep her promise? Her mother tells Micah they are moving, Micah doesn’t want to leave Poppop behind. She is upset when she learns that it is an hour away from Poppop’s home. When the time comes to move, her mother tells Micah to pack up her room. Upset, she gets on her bike and rides it for a long time. She ends up in front of Finch House. While looking at it, A boy, Theo jumps up out of the snow surprising Micah. He doesn’t invite her into the house. Micah after talking to Theo goes home. Micah upsets Poppop when he finds out that she was at Finch House even though she didn’t go inside the house. Poppop tells her to stay When Poppop is not home the next morning he doesn’t come home that day or the next so Micah decides to go to find him. She decides to go looking for him and sees Theo who volunteers to help her find Poppop. It’s snowing and as they search out in the falling snow, Theo tells Micah lets go to my house and I will make hot chocolate with peppermint for us. Afterwards, Theo gives Micah a tour of the house. They find small doors throughout the house that are locked. Micah thought she heard Poppop’s voice in the attic. She finds another small door. At first it appears locked but then it is open and they discover a staircase that Micah starts to go down but stops. The staircase is so dark that besides scaring Theo, it also scares Micah. She decides to go down anyway. Theo follows to the top of the staircase and tells Micah to not go. She goes and finds herself alone and afraid when she gets to the bottom she is all alone. Someone stops and asks Micah if she is lost and that they can be friends. She tells Micah that her name is Jen and there is no way she can leave now. Micah accidentally finds a way out and goes home. She returns to Finch House as she heard Poppop’s voice. She tells Theo she has to go back up to the attic. Theo argues with her and ends up with Micah where she was the last time. Jen tells her that she can free Poppop and Theo if she agrees to do something. What is it? Will she agree to get Poppop and Theo out?
The author has written a creepy, spooky haunted house novel. The story includes local disappearances, hidden family secrets, forgiveness and trauma.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
The author has written a creepy, spooky haunted house novel. The story includes local disappearances, hidden family secrets, forgiveness and trauma.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
January 30, 2024
Hi Again!
I am so excited for the start of February, January has been an okay reading month but I am excited to jump in head first and start February off with some new reads. A book I finished right before the holidays was a middle grade that was kindly sent to me by the publisher (thank you so much to the publisher for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions)! I started reading this book around the spooky season (it did have the perfect vibes for it) I got over 100 pages in which was pretty far into the story and had to set it aside for some responsibilities but I finally was able to pick it up and finish it towards the end of 2023, so let’s talk about it now!
SPOILERS AHEAD
Micah lives with her grandfather and her mom, in her mother’s childhood home. Micah loves living with her grandfather and they are the best of friends. They even have special activities they share such as hunting for junk that they turn into treasures. However, everything is about to change as Micah and her mom are moving into their own house (which is something Micah does not want to do). One day Micah is riding her bike past Finch house. It’s a gorgeous old house in the neighborhood but she has been forbidden from ever entering it, despite it being abandoned. But today when Micah rides her bike past, there are people there, unpacking and renovating it. There is a boy about her age, who is bringing things out of the house for a trash pile. In that pile, Micah sees something she knows that she and her grandfather could make awesome together. She wants to take it but as she is getting ready to her grandfather shows up. He is very upset that she is at the house even though she is not inside and he puts her bike in his truck and takes them both home. Micah can not stop thinking about the potential treasure and her grandfather’s reaction to the house. Micah spends the evening researching in her room and learns some interesting information about the house and maybe her grandfather but in the morning he is gone. When she gets home he is still not there. Micah is growing worried and she heads back to Finch house, but what if this is a mistake? What if her grandfather is just clearing his head somewhere?
I really enjoyed this book. The mystery of Finch House and Micah’s family history was captivating. Micah is going through so much in her life with the upcoming move, and not seeing her friends and grandfather every day and this story does an excellent job with dealing with Micah’s big feelings about this new upcoming stage in her life. This book came out recently, so head to your library or bookstore and give it a try!
Goodreads Rating: 4 Stars (Would be 4.5 but Goodreads does not do half stars).
***Thank you so much to the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I am so excited for the start of February, January has been an okay reading month but I am excited to jump in head first and start February off with some new reads. A book I finished right before the holidays was a middle grade that was kindly sent to me by the publisher (thank you so much to the publisher for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions)! I started reading this book around the spooky season (it did have the perfect vibes for it) I got over 100 pages in which was pretty far into the story and had to set it aside for some responsibilities but I finally was able to pick it up and finish it towards the end of 2023, so let’s talk about it now!
SPOILERS AHEAD
Micah lives with her grandfather and her mom, in her mother’s childhood home. Micah loves living with her grandfather and they are the best of friends. They even have special activities they share such as hunting for junk that they turn into treasures. However, everything is about to change as Micah and her mom are moving into their own house (which is something Micah does not want to do). One day Micah is riding her bike past Finch house. It’s a gorgeous old house in the neighborhood but she has been forbidden from ever entering it, despite it being abandoned. But today when Micah rides her bike past, there are people there, unpacking and renovating it. There is a boy about her age, who is bringing things out of the house for a trash pile. In that pile, Micah sees something she knows that she and her grandfather could make awesome together. She wants to take it but as she is getting ready to her grandfather shows up. He is very upset that she is at the house even though she is not inside and he puts her bike in his truck and takes them both home. Micah can not stop thinking about the potential treasure and her grandfather’s reaction to the house. Micah spends the evening researching in her room and learns some interesting information about the house and maybe her grandfather but in the morning he is gone. When she gets home he is still not there. Micah is growing worried and she heads back to Finch house, but what if this is a mistake? What if her grandfather is just clearing his head somewhere?
I really enjoyed this book. The mystery of Finch House and Micah’s family history was captivating. Micah is going through so much in her life with the upcoming move, and not seeing her friends and grandfather every day and this story does an excellent job with dealing with Micah’s big feelings about this new upcoming stage in her life. This book came out recently, so head to your library or bookstore and give it a try!
Goodreads Rating: 4 Stars (Would be 4.5 but Goodreads does not do half stars).
***Thank you so much to the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 28, 2023
Ciera Burch’s debut novel Finch House is an eerie middle-grade tale centering on a young girl named Micah and her family. Living up to the comparisons to Encanto and Coraline, I found it more of an entertaining mystery than anything spooky.
Micah doesn’t want to move away from her beloved grandfather. In her rebellion, she goes to the one place her grandfather forbade her from: Finch House. After her grandfather disappears, she returns to the house to visit her new friend Theo; they quickly realize that there’s more to the house than meets the eye.
The idea of a sentient house acting as a part of the story was a big draw for me, as I imagine it was for many others. There’s a certain magic that it adds to the worldbuilding in any book where that’s part of the story. I really enjoyed the family centered tale that the author wrote, with the ideas of dealing with the change, what makes a house a home, and belonging. The idea of generational trauma within a family was also central to the tale.
Overall, this was a unique and engaging read. Joniece Abott-Pratt was an excellent narrator, and did a great job bringing Micah’s perspective to life. This is a great book for any young reader in your life, and I’m excited to see what this author produces in the future.
Thank you to the author, the publisher Margaret K. McElderry Books, Jaime at Rockstar Book Tours, and NetGalley for providing me with a complimentary review copy of the book as part of my participation in the tour. I appreciate the opportunity to read and review the book immensely. Please note - I voluntarily read and reviewed Finch House. All opinions expressed in the review are my own and not influenced in any way.
CONTENT WARNINGS: Grief, Death, Forced Confinement
Micah doesn’t want to move away from her beloved grandfather. In her rebellion, she goes to the one place her grandfather forbade her from: Finch House. After her grandfather disappears, she returns to the house to visit her new friend Theo; they quickly realize that there’s more to the house than meets the eye.
The idea of a sentient house acting as a part of the story was a big draw for me, as I imagine it was for many others. There’s a certain magic that it adds to the worldbuilding in any book where that’s part of the story. I really enjoyed the family centered tale that the author wrote, with the ideas of dealing with the change, what makes a house a home, and belonging. The idea of generational trauma within a family was also central to the tale.
Overall, this was a unique and engaging read. Joniece Abott-Pratt was an excellent narrator, and did a great job bringing Micah’s perspective to life. This is a great book for any young reader in your life, and I’m excited to see what this author produces in the future.
Thank you to the author, the publisher Margaret K. McElderry Books, Jaime at Rockstar Book Tours, and NetGalley for providing me with a complimentary review copy of the book as part of my participation in the tour. I appreciate the opportunity to read and review the book immensely. Please note - I voluntarily read and reviewed Finch House. All opinions expressed in the review are my own and not influenced in any way.
CONTENT WARNINGS: Grief, Death, Forced Confinement
September 2, 2023
Available September 5, 2023
Finch House is atmospheric, moody, and ghostly. A true treasure for any tween reader who loves a great ghost story with a creaky, scary mansion.
Eleven-year old Micah is sad to be leaving Poppop's house and moving an hour away. Her favorite thing in the world is "thrifting" with her grandfather. They drive around and search for great stuff left on the curb before the waste trucks pick it up.
Poppop assures Micah change happens and change is a chance to grow. Not assured, Micah goes on a long bike ride to assuage her problem. She bikes down to Finch House, a decrepit Victorian mansion that Poppop told her to stay away from. This day, Finch House is different. It's all fixed up and back to its grand glory. Someone has moved in and fixed the entire mansion. Micah is spooked when a boy pops up from a snowpile. His name is Theo and he's the new resident. Micah sees a box for VHS tapes and asks if she can take it away. Theo agress, and Micah phones Poppop to come pick her and the box up.
Poppop looks terrified when he pulls up to Finch House. He makes sure Micah did not go inside and orders her into the truck. She waves goodbye to Theo, sensing Poppop knows more about the house than he is letting on.
She's not wrong. There's something about Finch House. Something terrifying--a family secret that's about to be uncovered. When her grandfather vanishes, Micah must explore the house to find her Poppop. But, to save herself and her grandfather, she must understand what gives the house life.
For fans of "Monster House" and Coraline. Ages 7 and up. Excellent choice for MG reluctant readers.
Finch House is atmospheric, moody, and ghostly. A true treasure for any tween reader who loves a great ghost story with a creaky, scary mansion.
Eleven-year old Micah is sad to be leaving Poppop's house and moving an hour away. Her favorite thing in the world is "thrifting" with her grandfather. They drive around and search for great stuff left on the curb before the waste trucks pick it up.
Poppop assures Micah change happens and change is a chance to grow. Not assured, Micah goes on a long bike ride to assuage her problem. She bikes down to Finch House, a decrepit Victorian mansion that Poppop told her to stay away from. This day, Finch House is different. It's all fixed up and back to its grand glory. Someone has moved in and fixed the entire mansion. Micah is spooked when a boy pops up from a snowpile. His name is Theo and he's the new resident. Micah sees a box for VHS tapes and asks if she can take it away. Theo agress, and Micah phones Poppop to come pick her and the box up.
Poppop looks terrified when he pulls up to Finch House. He makes sure Micah did not go inside and orders her into the truck. She waves goodbye to Theo, sensing Poppop knows more about the house than he is letting on.
She's not wrong. There's something about Finch House. Something terrifying--a family secret that's about to be uncovered. When her grandfather vanishes, Micah must explore the house to find her Poppop. But, to save herself and her grandfather, she must understand what gives the house life.
For fans of "Monster House" and Coraline. Ages 7 and up. Excellent choice for MG reluctant readers.
January 12, 2024
I truly enjoyed this spooky story of a young, African American girl facing change, family secrets and a haunted house all in one tale. Micah, the protagonist, is approximately 10 years old and she lives with her mother and maternal grandfather (Poppop) in her grandfather's modest home. After growing up with him, she is dismayed that her mother plans to move to another home an hour's drive away from the only home she's ever known. Micah both loves and respects her grandfather. They spend weekends bonding over their joint hobby of "networking" or finding hidden gems in the discards people leave on the street.
Micah is fairly independent, but there is one house in town where her grandfather has forbidden her to go: Finch House, the dilapidated old Victorian down a dead-end street in her town. Micah's grandfather won't tell her why he doesn't want her to go there, just makes her promise not to.
Micah's insatiable curiosity finds her biking there one afternoon to discover Finch House has been rennovated and a new, white family has moved in. She meets Theo, a boy who lives there now. He seems friendly enough, but Micah feels as if he's got something to hide. What is the secret of Finch House and how can Micah discover why her grandfather won't go near it and forbade her to do the same?
This is a riveting story of courage, growing friendship and laying to rest past mistakes. As it becomes clear, Theo (who evolves into a real friend concerned about Micah's somewhat specific interest in his new home) respects Micah's courage, while Micah's mother and Grandfather are both portrayed as loving adults who have Micah's safety in mind. Micah, for her part, is curious to a fault, but truly wants to set things right for those she loves.
Micah is fairly independent, but there is one house in town where her grandfather has forbidden her to go: Finch House, the dilapidated old Victorian down a dead-end street in her town. Micah's grandfather won't tell her why he doesn't want her to go there, just makes her promise not to.
Micah's insatiable curiosity finds her biking there one afternoon to discover Finch House has been rennovated and a new, white family has moved in. She meets Theo, a boy who lives there now. He seems friendly enough, but Micah feels as if he's got something to hide. What is the secret of Finch House and how can Micah discover why her grandfather won't go near it and forbade her to do the same?
This is a riveting story of courage, growing friendship and laying to rest past mistakes. As it becomes clear, Theo (who evolves into a real friend concerned about Micah's somewhat specific interest in his new home) respects Micah's courage, while Micah's mother and Grandfather are both portrayed as loving adults who have Micah's safety in mind. Micah, for her part, is curious to a fault, but truly wants to set things right for those she loves.
December 29, 2023
Review from little sister, Laly (11):
Micah is getting ready to move to a new place and will have to leave her grandpa, whom she affectionately calls Poppop, behind. Though Poppop was always a fun person to be around, he was dead serious when he told Micah never to go near the Finch House. But Micah was determined to break that promise. One day, while riding her bicycle, Micah spotted a piece of garbage she wanted to keep, and without thinking, she called Poppop to come to the Finch House. This made Poppop very angry, and it was one of the few times Micah had seen him that way. Coincidentally, the next day, Poppop disappeared, just like his sister had many years ago. So Micah decides to enter the Finch House to locate her missing grandpa.
I read a fascinating book with the perfect mix of horror and mystery I was looking for. The story follows a character named Micah, who habitually collects items that people throw away, such as an old bookcase. She always shows her latest find to her grandfather Poppop, who lives with her.
The book built up suspense brilliantly, and I found the mystery surrounding Poppop's sister intriguing.
In the book, Micah befriends a character named Theo, who lives in the Finch House. He is my favorite character because he knows much about the house and would make a great friend.
He is also featured on the cover, which I loved. The cover art and the light effects were beautifully done.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a perfect horror mystery.
Happy Reading, Laly ❤️ 📚
Micah is getting ready to move to a new place and will have to leave her grandpa, whom she affectionately calls Poppop, behind. Though Poppop was always a fun person to be around, he was dead serious when he told Micah never to go near the Finch House. But Micah was determined to break that promise. One day, while riding her bicycle, Micah spotted a piece of garbage she wanted to keep, and without thinking, she called Poppop to come to the Finch House. This made Poppop very angry, and it was one of the few times Micah had seen him that way. Coincidentally, the next day, Poppop disappeared, just like his sister had many years ago. So Micah decides to enter the Finch House to locate her missing grandpa.
I read a fascinating book with the perfect mix of horror and mystery I was looking for. The story follows a character named Micah, who habitually collects items that people throw away, such as an old bookcase. She always shows her latest find to her grandfather Poppop, who lives with her.
The book built up suspense brilliantly, and I found the mystery surrounding Poppop's sister intriguing.
In the book, Micah befriends a character named Theo, who lives in the Finch House. He is my favorite character because he knows much about the house and would make a great friend.
He is also featured on the cover, which I loved. The cover art and the light effects were beautifully done.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a perfect horror mystery.
Happy Reading, Laly ❤️ 📚
August 23, 2023
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing, Margaret K. McElderry Books. I'm voluntarily leaving a review; all opinions are my own.
Genre: MG Horror, Mystery, Creepy Fiction, MG Fantasy
Scare Factor: I think it's perfect for kids 8-13
Themes: Moving, Anxiety, Change, Generational trauma (fairly light in the way it's handled)
I love creepy old Victorian houses. So going into a haunted one is perfect.
Micah is worried over moving, justifies her actions, and is loyal to family. So a great combo of naughty and nice. She's also clever and compassionate which are the reasons she's able to work through her problems. I think she's a relatable character.
Theo is a secondary character and loves being outdoors after living in the crowded city. If there's a second book, I hope we get to see more of him. Maybe something at a summer camp???
When I worked with kids, I found that moving always caused stress. I love to see books dealing with this trauma for children to read about whether they're the one moving or not. *FINCH HOUSE* isn't preachy because it focuses on the haunted house more than her personal dilemmas.
The one thing I wanted was to get into the creepy house a bit faster. But because it's a fast read, it still worked. Once inside, you're not going to want to stop reading.
I enjoyed this book and recommend it.
Happy scary reading!
Genre: MG Horror, Mystery, Creepy Fiction, MG Fantasy
Scare Factor: I think it's perfect for kids 8-13
Themes: Moving, Anxiety, Change, Generational trauma (fairly light in the way it's handled)
I love creepy old Victorian houses. So going into a haunted one is perfect.
Micah is worried over moving, justifies her actions, and is loyal to family. So a great combo of naughty and nice. She's also clever and compassionate which are the reasons she's able to work through her problems. I think she's a relatable character.
Theo is a secondary character and loves being outdoors after living in the crowded city. If there's a second book, I hope we get to see more of him. Maybe something at a summer camp???
When I worked with kids, I found that moving always caused stress. I love to see books dealing with this trauma for children to read about whether they're the one moving or not. *FINCH HOUSE* isn't preachy because it focuses on the haunted house more than her personal dilemmas.
The one thing I wanted was to get into the creepy house a bit faster. But because it's a fast read, it still worked. Once inside, you're not going to want to stop reading.
I enjoyed this book and recommend it.
Happy scary reading!
August 29, 2023
This spooky middle grade novel is Ciera Burch's debut with Simon Kids and I'm grateful for the wonderful Simon team for sending an ARC my way.
Out September 5, 2023
THOUGHTS
This is an easy read that fits the pitch Encanto meets Coraline - you have this creepy historical house that is rumored to be taking kids through time + paired with the curiosity of eleven-year-old Micah = a spectacular (mis) adventure that encompasses time and place that ties Micah's present with the past.
Finch House started by giving a picture of how Micah lives in the present then gave a glimpse of how people from Micah's past strived and this was such an excellent parallel showing how change is essential in this fast-paced life.
The point of view may be coming from an eleven-year-old but there are lessons that you can pick up from this book such as people's mindset when it comes to change and how trauma transcends generation.
Love, family ties, forgiveness and acceptance are also included in this book's central theme. I like how Micah never gave up all throughout this book - such a brave soul.
Overall, this is a surprising middle grade novel that I enjoyed and I highly recommend if you like Coraline, Mexican Gothic, or The Taking of Jake Livingston.
Rating: 4stars
Out September 5, 2023
THOUGHTS
This is an easy read that fits the pitch Encanto meets Coraline - you have this creepy historical house that is rumored to be taking kids through time + paired with the curiosity of eleven-year-old Micah = a spectacular (mis) adventure that encompasses time and place that ties Micah's present with the past.
Finch House started by giving a picture of how Micah lives in the present then gave a glimpse of how people from Micah's past strived and this was such an excellent parallel showing how change is essential in this fast-paced life.
The point of view may be coming from an eleven-year-old but there are lessons that you can pick up from this book such as people's mindset when it comes to change and how trauma transcends generation.
Love, family ties, forgiveness and acceptance are also included in this book's central theme. I like how Micah never gave up all throughout this book - such a brave soul.
Overall, this is a surprising middle grade novel that I enjoyed and I highly recommend if you like Coraline, Mexican Gothic, or The Taking of Jake Livingston.
Rating: 4stars
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