Greg Howard Boeken

A lonely twelve-year-old boy spends his days “stuck” at the deserted Hollow Pines Plantation in Georgetown, South Carolina with no recollection of his name, how long he’s been there, and no idea how to leave. Things never change much for the lost souls at Hollow Pines and time is strange when you’re dead. But when visitors from the living world arrive for the first time in a long while, the boy feels a spark of hope. These visitors are around his age, and they seem to understand more than others that the plantation is not just spooky or eerie, it’s a sad place where the unspeakable happened again and again. And if these kids could understand the truth about Hollow Pines, maybe they could help him uncover the dark secrets of his past and help him find a way to finally move on. But Hollow Pines doesn’t like visitors. And with a malevolent spirit lurking in the shadows and painful memories buried deep, and for good reason, the boy wonders if he’ll ever find his way home or be stuck at Hollow Pines forever.

Set in the South, this poignant coming-of-age story explores themes of friendship and loss, making it a great choice for readers who enjoyed Bridge to Terabithia and Counting By 7s. The narrative captures the emotional journey of its young protagonist as they navigate the complexities of growing up. With rich, relatable characters and a heartfelt plot, it promises to resonate deeply with those seeking a meaningful and touching read.

In this heartfelt and hilarious new novel from Greg Howard, an enterprising boy starts his own junior talent agency and signs a thirteen-year-old aspiring drag queen as his first client.

The story follows Beckett Gaines, a gay teenager in South Carolina, whose life takes an unexpected turn due to a jock's influence. This debut novel blends humor with a poignant exploration of the struggles faced by those who feel different in a small southern town. Through a cast of vibrant and memorable characters, it delves into themes of identity, acceptance, and the complexities of adolescence.