Keepers of the Marsh
Keepers of the Marsh by Maura Jortner is a middle grade novel published by Candlewick Press on May 20, 2025. This 208-page book follows twin sisters Lana and Gracie as they confront a bitter witch’s curse that threatens their family. Set against the backdrop of Galveston Bay, the story begins with twelve-year-old Lana, who, feeling isolated and bored, ventures into the marsh behind her home in search of adventure. Her quest leads her to the legendary Alligator Witch, whose dark past intertwines with her family’s history.
Readers will find a rich narrative that explores themes of family life and the challenges of growing up, as the sisters navigate their drastically different personalities to unite against a common foe. The journey reveals the witch’s motivations and the twins’ unexpected connection to her, blending elements of fantasy and magic with a heartfelt story of sisterhood. This edition invites readers into an enchanting world filled with lore and adventure, making it a captivating addition to the genre.
Official synopsis Publisher
Twin sisters team up—despite drastically different personalities—to save their family from a bitter witch’s curse in this rich and atmospheric middle grade novel.
Twelve-year-old Lana isn’t looking for trouble when she ventures into the swampy marsh behind her family’s home in Galveston Bay. She’s just sweaty and bored and lonely, sick of sitting around doing nothing.
Her family never goes anywhere. Her mom and her sisters want nothing to do with her, and none of them will talk about their dead dad. With loads of unanswered questions and no other options, Lana decides to seek out the legendary Alligator Witch—if she’s even real.
What Lana doesn’t realize is that the Alligator Witch is very real, and has spent decades plotting her revenge on the town. When the witch swiftly casts a terrifying curse, the only person Lana can ask for help is her unfriendly and generally unwilling twin, Gracie.
Together, the twins embark on a memorable journey to make sense of the Alligator Witch’s dark past, along with the unexpected role their family played in her descent. In spite of their differences, Lana and Gracie must unite to make things right and save their loved ones.
An enchanting read packed full of fascinating lore, girl-powered adventure, and just-enough danger, this story of sisterhood will keep readers turning pages. Hand to fans of exciting, lightly magical sagas like The Midnight Children and The Jumbies.
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