illustrated by Janine Carrington
On sale October 20, 2026“An inventive, fast-paced thrill ride with rip-roaring action, creepy horror, and a big heart!” — James Kennedy, author
School, library, or bulk orders? Email laura@playinabook.com.
Softcover · 260 pages · fully illustrated · ages 10–14 (grades 5–8)
Something is waking beneath Lake Michigan.
It’s otherworldly. It’s hungry. And it’s calling to George.
George feels everything slipping out of control—and she can’t speak up to stop it. Her trusted caregiver, Verity, is hiding something. The new girl, Blessing, won’t stop coming for her, online and off. Even her best friend Jam can’t help her make sense of it all. Then the nightmare rises from the lake, and terror spills into the streets of Chicago. Only George, Jam, and Blessing can stop it.
Will George find the courage to use her voice before it’s lost for good?
More than 20 full-color illustrations by Janine Carrington, including full-page spreads.
A 12-page section uniquely designed to get the reader just as lost as George in the monster’s lair.
Set in the South Shore neighborhood and drawn from more than 30 years of the author’s experience working with Chicago students.
South Shore Fine Arts Academy
1415 E. 70th St., Chicago, IL 60637
Location and time coming soon.
Laura St. John is available for author visits to schools and libraries. A former teaching artist and actor, she brings the story to life for students.