About BC Books Online
BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
A quick tip: When reviewing the "Browse by Category" listings, please note that these are based on standardized BISAC Subject Codes supplied by the books' publishers. You will find additional selections, grouped by theme or region, in our "BC Reading Lists."
Description
Conor loves to climb.
So when the crusty old manager of a thrill ride based on Edgar Allan Poe's "The Pit and the Pendulum" challenges Conor to scale the ride in the dark of night and hide a package at the top, he foolishly accepts. But it isn't long before he realizes that he is now involved in something far more dangerous. What is in the package, and what does it have to do with Edgar Allan Poe? And why is the town bully so terrified of the old man? The more Conor learns, the deeper in trouble he gets.
This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for middle-grade readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read!
Contributor Notes
Melanie Jackson is the author of several Orca Currents titles, including Medusa’s Scream, The Big Dip and Fast Slide. When not writing thrilling tales, she works as a business writer and editor. She lives in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 9 to 12
- Grade:
- 4 to 7
- Reading age:
- 9 to 12
Editorial Reviews
"A short entertaining novel aimed at middle grade reluctant readers. It has a lot to recommend it…I quite enjoyed it."
— The Haunted Reading Room
"Appeal to a variety of readers, including readers of human interest, mystery, adventure and realistic fiction…In addition to being an excellent class novel for individual reading or as a read-aloud for the intended audience, would be an excellent addition for personal, class, school and public libraries. Highly Recommended."
— CM: Canadian Review of Materials
“Excitement and fear are the backbone of this story…The content will definitely hold the interest of teenagers…Perfect for reluctant readers or students reading below grade level.”
— Must Read Literature
“Will allow a young reader to get through it rapidly. The Poe references are entertaining…its simplicity fits, and the exposure to a literary legend such as Poe should prove beneficial and spark important conversations.”
— Resource Links
"Jackson’s gripping, first-person, plot-driven novel ask readers to consider self-confidence vs. over-active ego; right vs. wrong…A suspenseful addition to high-low collections. "
— Booklist
