Antsy is the latest student to pass through the doors at Eleanor West’s School for Wayward Children.

When the school’s (literally irresistible) mean girl realizes that Antsy’s talent for finding absolutely anything may extend to doors, Antsy is forced to flee in the company of a small group of friends, looking for a way back to the Shop Where the Lost Things Go to be sure that Vineta and Hudson are keeping their promise.

Along the way, they will travel from a world which hides painful memories that cut as sharply as its beauty, to a land that time wasn’t yet old enough to forget—and more than one student’s life will change forever.

Anytime I read a novel or story by Seanan McGuire, I find myself drenched in her words and knowing that I have once more encountered an exquisite story to savor. In Mislaid in Parts Half-Known, I am once again astounded by Seanan McGuire’s talent at bringing to life rich characters, diverse backgrounds, and storytelling that enriches the soul. 

This story continues where the last Wayward Children’s novel left off, with Antsy, the latest student to pass through the school. Except Antsy is different. She has the ability to find lost things, including doors. And that makes her of interest to the entire school. Kade, Sumi, Cora, Christopher, and new recruit Julie all find themselves helping Antsy as they travel to several worlds to escape their initial problem. 

What makes the story work so well is how perfect the pacing is and I absolutely love how Antsy’s abilities work. But I also like her compassion, her caring, and how willing she is to stand up for others when she has the chance to do so. I also appreciate that we get a touch more of Kade’s story, one of my favorite characters. There are changes and endings and while some of them are heartbreaking, that’s what makes a beautiful story. There are unexpected truths, mercy, and justice. I also love the diversity of the worlds we see, just how different they can be from what we see on our earth. That fascinates me and astounds me.

If you liked the previous Wayward Children books, you will love this novel. It will surprise you and possibly make you cry a bit but I think you will find it an exquisite story much like I do. I can’t wait for more.

5 out of 5 portals.