Midnight House

Big Cat Read On supports fluent readers to improve their reading skills and nurture a love of reading. Consisting of a wide range of engaging chapter books, the Big Cat Read On series improves reading stamina and comprehension, develops vocabulary, and introduces children to more sophisticated narrative structures and themes.

Clarabelle Graves knows there’s something special about The Midnight House the moment she sees it in the vintage shop window. Unhappy living in a run-down flat, and having no money, Clarabelle dreams of the kind of life she might have if only she owned the doll’s house. But sometimes you have to be careful what you wish for.

Ask the author and Book talk questions invite the reader to think more deeply about the themes in the book and reflect on their reading experience. Online lesson plans provide guidance in using this book in a range of settings, including independent, social and whole-class reading – all designed to support the reader to connect with the book and encourage a positive attitude to reading.

I have always been interested in ghostly tales, the weird, the unknown, old and odd things. I love to browse in vintage shops and markets. An old book with someone’s name on the inside cover always makes me stop and think about the person who once owned the book. I have always been fascinated by dolls’ houses and antique dolls. Is there anything creepier? Writing The Midnight House gave me the chance to delve into a world of creepy dolls – and I loved bringing it to life. I am also a primary teacher and I have taught children who have experienced loss and hardship but have shown great resilience. Clarabelle Graves is inspired by those students.