Midnight for Charlie Bone by Jenny Nimmo receives praise for its fast-paced narrative and imaginative world-building. Readers appreciate the engaging plot and relatable young protagonist. However, some critics argue that the book lacks originality and is derivative of other popular fantasy series. Nonetheless, it serves as an entertaining and accessible read for middle-grade audiences.

Readers who relish magical adventures and school settings akin to Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling will enjoy Midnight for Charlie Bone by Jenny Nimmo. Ideal for middle-grade readers, the book features a young protagonist discovering his supernatural heritage and navigating a mysterious academy, reminiscent of The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis.

In Midnight for Charlie Bone by Jenny Nimmo, a young boy discovers his inherited magical abilities and is sent to Bloor's Academy, a school for children with special powers. As he navigates this new world, he encounters unique characters and uncovers hidden family secrets.

- Midnight for Charlie Bone is the first book in the Children of the Red King series, which consists of eight books in total, captivating readers with its magical themes and unique storytelling.
- The series has been praised for its imaginative world-building and has often been compared to the Harry Potter series due to its setting in a school for children with magical abilities.
- Jenny Nimmo's inspiration for the character of Charlie Bone came from observing a boy on a bus who seemed to be lost in a world of his imagination, sparking the idea of a child with special powers.

Mysterious / Fantastical / Adventurous / Suspenseful / Emotional

**Charlie Bone**  
A young boy with hair described as "like a hedge," who lives with his family and discovers he possesses unusual abilities related to photographs.

**Emma Tolly**  
Also known as Emilia Moon, she is a blonde, blue-eyed girl at the heart of the book’s mystery, known for her artistic talent and unique powers.

**Uncle Paton**  
Charlie’s reclusive great-uncle, who isolates himself due to the effects of his unusual endowment on electrical lights.

**Manfred Bloor**  
The head boy at Bloor's Academy, characterized by his long, narrow face and coal-black eyes, with powers that align with his family's ruthless behavior.

**Benjamin Brown**  
Charlie’s best friend and neighbor with dirty blond hair, who, though not endowed, plays a vital role by providing support and a safe space.

**Billy Raven**  
The youngest at Bloor's Academy, distinguished by his albinism and ability to communicate with animals, which leads to complex relationships.

**The Yewbeam Sisters**  
A group of sisters, each with distinct characteristics and roles: Grizelda is controlling, Lucretia monitors Bloor's Academy, Eustacia predicts the future, and Venetia creates enchanted garments.

Jenny Nimmo

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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Midnight for Charlie Bone Summary and Study Guide

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Midnight for Charlie Bone Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 5

Midnight for Charlie Bone Prologue-Chapter 5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-11

Midnight for Charlie Bone Chapters 6-11 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 12-16

Midnight for Charlie Bone Chapters 12-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-21

Midnight for Charlie Bone Chapters 17-21 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Midnight for Charlie Bone Character Analysis

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Themes

Midnight for Charlie Bone Themes

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Midnight for Charlie Bone Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Midnight for Charlie Bone Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Midnight for Charlie Bone Essay Topics

Midnight for Charlie Bone: The Children of the Red King #1

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