What is happening to the children in Wintermoor? Secret organisation The Night House exposes the bone-chilling truth in this terrifying thriller from master of sci-fi Dan Smith. Tara Fisher’s best friend Zoe is the first to see the lights over Wintermoor – and she’s never the same again. Soon more and more teenagers are affected and start behaving strangely, often appearing to be trapped in some kind of trance, while talking about being “chosen”.

The adults dismiss what is happening as some kind of hoax or mass hysteria. But will they finally listen when the kids start to disappear …?

• Author: Dan Smith
• Illustrator: Luke Brookes
• Publisher: Barrington Stoke
• ISBN: 978‑0‑00‑870050‑8
• Publication date: 11 September 2025
• Dimensions: approx. 129 × 198 mm
• Interest age: 11+; Reading age: designed to support readers who need accessible formats
• Genre: Mystery / thriller with paranormal / sci‑fi overtones — suitable for older children and young teens

FAQs

Q1. Is this book suitable for children with dyslexia or reading difficulties?

Yes — published by Barrington Stoke, a specialist in accessible reading formats, and described as designed for early readers with supportive layout.

Q2. What age is this book aimed at?

The interest age is 5+ which makes it ideal for younger readers or children starting to build reading confidence.

Q3. What is the story about?

A strange creature with huge paws and a terrible growl is roaming Moonlight, and Hana and Ace must investigate — while Hana also faces her own worries.

Q4. Can this be used in schools or reading‑support settings?

Absolutely. With its manageable length, engaging mystery plot and accessible format, it is a strong option for classroom libraries, buddy‑reading programmes or reading intervention groups.

Q5. Is this a standalone story or part of a series?

This is Book 2 in the “Moonlight Mystery Agency” series — ideal for children who enjoyed the first title to continue their reading journey.