The Nest
Readers rate it 3.6 (27 on Hardcover)
Released Oct 6, 2015 · Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Content report card
The Nest parent’s guide: what’s inside
Language
Sexual content
LGBTQ+ themes
Substance use
What it offers
Educational value
A note for parents
This gothic fantasy explores dark themes of temptation, loss of agency, and family struggle in an intentionally eerie, dreamlike atmosphere. While there is no graphic violence or profanity, the psychological dread and horror elements—particularly the wasp queen's unsettling presence—make it better suited to middle-grade readers with some comfort with darker stories. The book ultimately celebrates acceptance of disability and the bonds of family, offering meaningful emotional depth alongside its atmospheric tension.
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From the publisher
“The Nest leaves a lasting mark on the memory.” —The New York Times Book Review 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 rev... “The Nest leaves a lasting mark on the memory.” —The New York Times Book Review 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. Illustrations from Caldecott Medalist Jon Klassen. For some kids summer is a sun-soaked season of fun. But for Steve, it’s just another season of worries. 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. So when a mysterious wasp queen invades his dreams, offering to “fix” the baby, Steve thinks his prayers have been answered. All he has to do is say “Yes.” But “yes” is a powerful word. It is also a dangerous one. And once it is uttered, can it be taken back? Celebrated 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. Includes illustrations from celebrated artist Jon Klassen.
Shelved under
- Juvenile Fiction
- Fantasy
- Young Adult
- Science Fiction
- Fiction
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ISBN 9781481432320 · Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers