Wayward Children

Seanan McGuire
Started in 2016
9 Books

About the Series

The 'Wayward Children' series by Seanan McGuire explores the lives of children who discover portals to other worlds, each with their own unique rules and adventures. Upon returning to the mundane world, these children often struggle to fit in, feeling lost and disoriented. The series delves into themes of belonging, identity, and the desire for escape, painting a poignant picture of what it means to be a child on the fringes of society. Each book in the series features a different character's journey, revealing the diverse experiences of these wayward children as they navigate their realities and the fantastical worlds they once visited.

Series Details

  • Author:Seanan McGuire
  • Started:2016
  • Books:9
  • Status:Complete

Genres

FantasyYoung AdultMagical RealismSpeculative Fiction

Themes

Identity and Self-DiscoveryBelonging and AcceptanceThe Nature of HomeAdventure and EscapeMental Health and Trauma

Books in Order

1

Every Heart a Doorway

2016

In this inaugural book, Eleanor West runs a boarding school for wayward children who have returned from magical realms. As they navigate their feelings of loss and dislocation, a murder occurs at the school, forcing them to confront their pasts and the worlds they left behind. The story unfolds as a mystery, exploring the characters' unique experiences in their respective worlds.

Series StartCore Series
2

Down Among the Sticks and Bones

2017

This prequel focuses on Jack and Jill, twin sisters who discover a world of horror and darkness. Their experiences in this new realm shape their identities and test their bond. The book delves into themes of family, loyalty, and the consequences of choices made in the pursuit of adventure.

Core Series
3

Beneath the Sugar Sky

2018

In this installment, a new girl named Rini arrives at Eleanor's school, searching for her mother, who is a resident of a magical world. The story introduces readers to the whimsical yet perilous land of Confection, where the laws of physics and reality are turned on their head. This book emphasizes themes of friendship, love, and the complexities of identity.

Core Series
4

In an Absent Dream

2019

This novel chronicles the journey of Antoinette, a girl who discovers a world governed by logic and rules. As she navigates the challenges of her new home, she grapples with the balance between structure and chaos. The book highlights themes of order, the search for meaning, and the sacrifices made for stability.

Core Series
5

Come Tumbling Down

2020

The fifth book in the series sees Jack and Jill return to the world of their youth, where they must confront their past and seek to rescue a friend from a dangerous fate. This story examines themes of redemption, the power of choice, and the importance of confronting one's fears.

Core Series
6

Across the Green Grass Fields

2020

This standalone novel introduces a new protagonist, Regan, who finds herself in a world inhabited by centaurs and other fantastical beings. Through her journey, the book explores themes of acceptance, diversity, and the understanding of one's place in the world.

StandaloneCore Series
7

Where the Drowned Girls Go

2021

In this story, the characters face the consequences of their choices as they navigate the complexities of their identities and relationships. The book addresses the themes of sacrifice, the quest for belonging, and the challenges of growth.

Core Series
8

Lost in the Moment and Found

2022

The latest installment follows the journey of a character who must confront the realities of their choices and the impact of time on their life. The story intertwines themes of memory, time travel, and the essence of change.

Core Series
9

The Final Girl Support Group

2023

The anticipated conclusion to the series, where all characters from previous books unite to face a final challenge that will test their bonds and resolve. This book encapsulates the series' overarching themes of community, resilience, and the courage to face one's demons.

Series Finale

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 'Wayward Children' series suitable for all ages?

While the series is classified as young adult, it deals with complex themes such as trauma and identity that may resonate more with older teens and adults. Parental discretion is advised.

Do I need to read the books in order?

Each book in the series can be read as a standalone story, but reading them in order can enhance your understanding of recurring themes and character development.

Will there be more books in the 'Wayward Children' series?

As of now, 'Lost in the Moment and Found' is the latest release, but the author, Seanan McGuire, has hinted at the possibility of future stories exploring more characters and worlds.

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