Brief Summary of School Reading List Books - Ievgen Sykalo 2026

Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate

Crenshaw, by Katherine Applegate, is a middle-grade fantasy novel that follows Jackson Crenshaw, a lonely boy grappling with grief after his father's sudden death. Jackson feels lost and disconnected from the world, finding solace only in sketching fantastical creatures in his notebook.

A New Beginning (and a Hidden Room):

Jackson's mother decides a fresh start is needed, and they move to a new town. Their new house seems ordinary at first, but Jackson soon discovers a hidden room filled with dusty artifacts and a faded mural depicting a majestic bird. Curiosity piqued, he finds a tiny keyhole within the mural.

A Connection Beyond the Keyhole:

Peering through the keyhole, Jackson is startled to see a pair of eyes staring back at him — the eyes belong to a magnificent griffin trapped within the mural! The griffin, Atamis, reveals he's imprisoned by a curse and pleads with Jackson for help.

Hesitantly Accepting the Quest:

Jackson is initially afraid and unsure, but Atamis convinces him that only a human with a pure heart can break the curse. Feeling a responsibility to help and yearning for adventure, Jackson agrees to embark on a quest to free Atamis.

Following the Clues:

Their journey begins by deciphering clues hidden within Jackson's father's old notebooks. These notebooks, filled with sketches of mythical creatures remarkably similar to Jackson's own drawings, turn out to be a guide for breaking the curse.

Unveiling His Father's Legacy:

As they follow the clues, Jackson learns a surprising truth. His father wasn't just an ordinary artist; he was a Keeper, someone who protected the balance between the human world and the fantastical realm where creatures like Atamis reside.

Facing Challenges:

Their quest takes them on a series of adventures, encountering other mythical creatures, some helpful and some posing a threat. Jackson must overcome his fear and self-doubt, utilizing his artistic talent and newfound knowledge to navigate obstacles and solve puzzles.

The Importance of Friendship:

Along the way, Jackson befriends a quirky girl named Zoe, who also possesses a hidden connection to the fantastical world. Together, they form a strong bond, relying on each other's skills and courage to overcome challenges.

Confronting the Curse:

The climax likely involves Jackson and Zoe reaching the source of the curse and facing the one who imprisoned Atamis. Utilizing the knowledge from his father's notebooks and the power of their newfound friendship, they must find a way to break the curse and free Atamis.

Healing and Growth:

Through his journey, Jackson not only helps Atamis but also finds a way to heal from his own grief. He learns the importance of facing his fears, the power of friendship, and the legacy left behind by his father.

The ending might see Atamis freed, the balance restored, and a spark of hope ignited within Jackson. He might even discover his own hidden potential as a Keeper, ready to carry on his father's legacy of protecting the fantastical world.