As Theodore's health deteriorates, Steve must decide what is best for his brother and what he will do to save him. Nobody, a family legend turned real, it seems. Agreeing to the queen's offer, Steve confronts a dangerous traveling knife sharpener, his parents' concerns over his mental health, and strange phone calls from Mr. After a curious gray and white wasp from the hive above their house stings Steve, he develops the ability to speak to the hive's queen, who promises to replace the ailing baby with a new one. Oppel (The Boundless) enters Gaimanesque territory with his portrayal of Steve, an older brother struggling with anxiety and his family's distress after his newborn brother, Theodore, is diagnosed with a rare congenital disorder. Includes illustrations from celebrated artist Jon Klassen. And once it is uttered, can it be taken back?Ĭelebrated author Kenneth Oppel creates an eerie masterpiece in this compelling story that explores disability and diversity, fears and dreams, and what ultimately makes a family. So when a mysterious wasp queen invades his dreams, offering to “fix” the baby, Steve thinks his prayers have been answered.Īll he has to do is say “Yes.” But “yes” is a powerful word. Worries about his sick newborn baby brother who is fighting to survive, worries about his parents who are struggling to cope, even worries about the wasp’s nest looming ominously from the eaves. But for Steve, it’s just another season of worries.

Illustrations from Caldecott Medalist Jon Klassen.įor some kids summer is a sun-soaked season of fun. Steve just wants to save his baby brother-but what will he lose in the bargain? Kenneth Oppel’s ( Silverwing, The Boundless) haunting gothic tale for fans of Coraline, is one of the most acclaimed books of the year, receiving six starred reviews. “ The Nest leaves a lasting mark on the memory.” - The New York Times Book Review

The nest book kenneth oppel