Gloam

A Times Children's Book of the Week

By: Jack Mackay, Ben Joel Price (Illustrator)

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Paperback | 2 September 2025

At a Glance

Paperback
256 Pages

Age
9 - 12

Dimensions(cm)
19.8 x 12.9

Paperback

RRP $16.99

$15.99

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In a creaky old house on a small, damp island, someone - or something - is waiting...

Gwen doesn't need anyone to help her look after her younger siblings. And she isn't fooled by the beautiful babysitter with the hungry eyes and sharp teeth. But everyone else is. So if Gwen wants Esme Laverne gone, she'll have to handle it herself.

As Esme's power grows, Gwen must embrace her deepest fears before she can defeat the monster in her home for good.

Because as everyone knows, it's impossible to be brave unless you're already afraid.

About the Author

Jack Mackay is a writer, theatre-maker and horror enthusiast. Though he's currently floating around somewhere near York, his heart is in the Midlands, in his grandparents' creaky old house where he grew up. He has written stories since he was four years old, but this is the first one that was any good. He also co-founded Griffonage Theatre, a York-based company with a taste for the madcap and macabre. He loves his family, his dog, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, and K-pop.

Industry Reviews

"The first time I read this book, I was so frightened I hid under the bed - and read it again." - Lemony Snicket, author of A Series of Unfortunate Events

'a gripping and creepy novel with a monster so terrifying readers will be shivering in their beds. An excellent debut.' - Bookseller

'a brilliantly terrifying treat about a babysitter who is not what she seems.' -Charlotte Eyre, Bookseller

'Thrilling and chilling, with a standout protagonist.' - Kirkus Reviews

'So scary I may never sleep again.' - Rose, age 10

'This is an amazing book. But beware - it might make you jump out of your skin!' -Khalil, age 10

'A sumptuously sinister tale that is thoroughly spine-chilling, yet utterly heart-warming. I had both goosebumps and throat lumps whilst reading it!' - Hana Tooke, author of The Unadoptables

'Gloam Island is not a place for the faint-hearted. You think you know scary? Think again! Jack Mackay's debut is a seriously spooky, chilly nightmare of a book. I dare you to read it after dark...' - Keith Gray, author of Ostrich Boys

'seriously spooky ... not afraid to be truly frightening.' - Sophie Cleverly, author of The Violet Veil Mysteries

"A spooky tale that will put you off babysitters for life ... Fun, frightening, the perfect cozy day read." - Phil Hickes, author of The Shadowhall Academy series.

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