SHORTLISTED: 2024 DANZ Children's Book Awards, Best Middle Grade Book
LONGLISTED: 2024 UKLA Book Awards, Ages 7-10+

There are those who hunt monsters to harm them and there are those who hunt monsters to help them. Which one are you?

Dressed in sparkly red shoes and carrying her strawberry-scented notebook, Mary-Kate is accompanying her archaeologist mother to the tranquil English countryside to investigate some interesting bones found in an old well. But once they arrive, they realise that the village of Woolington is not as peaceful as it seems. Mysterious noises, earth tremors and a terrifying legend have the locals frightened.

Could there be any truth in the myth of the beast who lives in the ancient well? And if so, why would it return? Mary-Kate might be anxious, but she is not afraid to get to the bottom of this monstrous mystery.

A delightful fantasy-adventure from the award-winning and bestselling author of Lenny's Book of Everything and Dragon Skin, with lively line illustrations by Freda Chiu.

'A deliciously thrilling mystery, full of heart, wisdom, wit and ingenuity.' Edwina Wyatt, award-winning author of The Secrets of Magnolia Moon

'Easily one of the most charming books for young readers I have come across ... A perfect balance of fun, fantasy, humour and innocence.' Katrina Nannestad, author of the Travelling Bookshop series