The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good by Kirsty Applebaum

Written with a cleverly crafted dual-narrative of an old story and the experiences of a modern girl, The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good is a completely captivating mystery. Hints of the unknown from the very first page will pull readers into this gripping story of folklore, threat and enchantment. This is a brilliantly unique take on the folklore-mystery genre that fans of the Aveline Jones series by Phil Hickes will adore.

Imogen and Bex have been friends for a long time but recently Imogen’s new, cool friends have been causing trouble. Always mocking and teasing Bex in her sparkly clothes and younger ways, they set up a dare to try to scare her: to sneak into the hidden garden of Stillness Hall.

Almost a year later, Fran is sent to stay with her aunt, uncle and cousin Imogen in their home on the Stillness Estate. Stillness Hall is creepy, Imogen is bossy and the cottage is tiny – it’s the last thing Fran wants to do. When she arrives, Imogen is missing yet her parents don’t even seem to know who she is. They insist they have no daughter and no one in the village knows her either. Fran is faced with a complex mystery of deadly enchantments where the wishes of the past curse the future. As the only one who remembers Imogen, it’s up to her to discover the truth.

Led into the garden at Stillness Hall, Fran uncovers the horrific story of Lord and Lady Stillness that, over the years, has transformed into folklore: The Twelve Statues of Stillness Hall. Missing children, a mysterious garden and a magic that has ideas all its own put Fran in danger. Through careful investigation and help from Bex, she unravels the most intriguing story of love, loss, hope and heartbreak.

The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good will be the perfect book to read with Upper Key Stage 2 classes this autumn. With so much to discover, children will be completely captivated by each twist and turn. The inclusion of the story of Lord and Lady Stillness provides clues to the modern mystery which students will love piecing together. This gripping story is sure to result in gasps of surprise, “aha” moments and a real reading buzz in the classroom.

Thank you to Nosy Crow and NetGalleyUK for a fantastic summer read!

It will be published on 11th September 2025.

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