100 Cupboards

Henry York is, for the most part, an average twelve year old boy. A family emergency lands the him in Henry, Kansas, living with his aunt, uncle, and their three daughters. Upon arrival, Henry is thoroughly unimpressed with his temporary residence. Until he discovers the cupboards.

Henry, along with his younger cousin, Henrietta, uncover a wall of 99 cupboards in Henry's attic bedroom. The cupboards become Henry and Henrietta's secret summer project. Together, they study the cupboards and learn that what they have discovered is not just a bunch of cupboards, but 99 magic cupboards that lead to different worlds.

The 99 cupboards on Henry's wall entertain Henry and Henrietta for quite some time. They find a cupboard that leads to a post office, and even a cupboard that opens into a forest. The two kids deem these cupboards the greatest discovery ever. However, upon examination of the cupboards, they come across an ebony cupboard that conflicts with their fun.

The cupboards lead the two children on a journey which ultimately brings them closer together. They reveal a whole new meaning to Henry's life, while forcing him to evaluate his past. The cupboards change Henry's life forever.

100 Cupboards is a great read.  I never got bored while reading this book.  It is short enough that the reader does not lose interest, yet long enough to cover the storyline in a captivating manner.  A few of the things that I especially like include the rural Kansas setting, the relatable characters, and the balance between the natural and the unnatural throughout the novel.