middle grade book where the parents are missing, possibly at sea

[Megan]

I read this book about 3-5 years ago, 2013-2016. It was to be the first in a series or have a sequel. The boy is sent to a relative's house. There is something about a trunk. I don't think he is allowed outside much, asides from school (because maybe the same pirates will come for him?). He befriends the neighbor girl. There might be a walled garden. There are "stuffed" (taxidermy) animals in his home. This is not Flight of the Phoenix. Thank you.

[Rainbowheart]

The Forbidden Library?

[Megan]

Hmmm... I don't think so.

[Rainbowheart]

Strange Birds?

Grimm House?

A Message to the Sea?

[Becca]

The Doldrums by Nicholas Gannon?

[Megan]

By golly, I think it is the Doldrums, Becca!! I requested it from the library, we'll see. Thank you!

[Kris]

Amazon "Look Inside" preview of The Doldrums by Nicholas Gannon - Becca's suggestion:

https://www.amazon.com/Doldrums-Nicho... The style of the illustrations is very distinctive.