The Horrible Bag of Terrible Things #1

May 15, 2023
Two combative siblings must come together to survive an otherworldly kidnapping in this haunting adventure by Renzetti (Onward). Following a science-class mishap that resulted in his grounding, 11-year-old Zenith “Nit” Maelstrom is spending his summer constantly supervised by his patronizing older sister Apogee when a weathered satchel with a “general air of hostility” appears on the family’s doorstep. After it belches forth a spidery creature comprised of knotted hair and toenails that drags his sister into the bag’s interior, Nit dives in after her and emerges into an unsettling realm called GrahBhag. The eerie land proves populated by bloodthirsty, mouthlike seam monsters; a stuffed, patchwork man with a terrifying definition of friendship; and a gargoyle named Kreeble, who agrees to help Nit find Apogee in exchange for the opportunity to feast on the boy’s earwax. A speedy plot hurtles a frantic Nit toward Apogee’s cultlike captors and their insectoid leader, and insightful narration highlights the siblings’ personal history to emotive effect. Renzetti imbues this series debut with classic horror inflections; the author’s dedication to gross-out imagery transforms an otherwise straightforward fantasy into an inventive and genuinely creepy-crawly read. The siblings default to white. Ages 8–12. Agent: Rubin Pfeffer, Rubin Pfeffer Content.

May 15, 2023
Eleven-year-old Zenith Maelstrom is on a thrilling mission to save his older sister, Apogee, who was taken by a scary creature down into the world of GrahBhag. Zenith is stuck at home with 13-year-old Apogee when a mysterious weathered and worn bag appears on their front porch. Curious about this unmarked carryall, he brings it inside--and out crawls the horrific, spiderlike Shlurp, which drags Apogee down into the bag. Zenith follows her, and once inside, the magical, eerie world of GrahBhag opens up before him. He's thrust into a harrowing journey to save his sister before the unthinkable happens. Renzetti's story is fast paced and fully imagined, with completely original creatures and characters. The small, literal-minded gargoyle Kreeble proves an unlikely helpful companion for Zenith, perched on his shoulder throughout. The large ravens, Muncie and Hugh, are likable, interesting characters whose work in gathering and preserving history and knowledge makes the descriptions of the Collectory some of the most vivid in the story. The bond between brother and sister is well drawn and believable, as Zenith is desperate for a chance to protect and save his sibling. A painful story from their past shines light on just how much they rely on each other. The ending, resolved and yet open, sets the stage for a follow-up. Imaginative and immersive. (Horror. 8-12)

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