The Forgotten Summer of Seneca

A grieving tween uncovers an alternate version of Seneca Village, a predominantly free Black community destroyed in 1857, in this gentle middle grade debut by Garrett (Friday I’m in Love). While spending the summer with her aunt Monica in N.Y.C., 12-year-old Rowan Grace Robinson finds it difficult to escape reminders of happier times prior to her father’s death two years ago. Then she stumbles through a mysterious portal in Central Park, where she discovers magically hidden Seneca Village. Befriending 12-year-old Lily, who can control plants, Rowan learns that all of Seneca’s residents—descendants of the 19th century population—have magical powers and live apart from modern society. Though with the recent disappearance of Seneca teenager Sage, the portal between worlds has grown unstable, allowing unexpected visitors like Rowan. Now Rowan and Lily must work together across both worlds to find Sage and restore the portal before Seneca is exposed. Garrett weaves together themes of grief, resilience, healing, and friendship as Rowan faces the unwelcome certainty of change while experiencing joy in everyday moments. Examinations of contemporary and historical racism as well as approachable juxtapositions of the IRL fate of Seneca Village with its fictional counterpart of gifted, secluded descendants ground this fantastical adventure. Ages 10–14. Agent: Beth Phelan, Gallt & Zacker Literary. (Apr.)