Spring 2026

Down the Plot Hole

  • Interest Level: Grade 3 - Grade 6
  • Reading Level: Grade 4

“There’s a word missing.” Terry pointed to the book. “The maid plucked the . . . ready for the spit.” He flipped back a page. “It said she was sitting beside a black hen, right?” It was true. The words “black hen” were gone. All that remained was a larger-than-usual space. A gap. An emptiness. A hole . . . in the plot.

Neighbors and reluctant reading partners Basil and Terry are once again reading The Complete Fairytales of the Brothers Grimm. Last time, they found themselves plunged into the fairytale world, where everyone was losing the plot. This time, words—well, chickens—are disappearing!

Realizing their fairytale friends are in danger of being sucked into oblivion by plot holes, the boys don’t hesitate before diving back into the Grimm world to warn them. It’s up to Basil and Terry to find out what’s going on and how to stop the plot holes from destroying everything . . . including their way home.

Format Your Price Add
978-1-76160-255-9
On pre-order until 05/05/2026
$18.99
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on library bound hardcovers and all eBook and eBook with Audio editions when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Grade 3 - Grade 6
Reading Level Grade 4
Category SEL: D Relationship Skills, SEL: E Responsible Decision-Making, Social Emotional Learning
Copyright 2026
Publisher Walker Books Australia
Imprint Walker Books Australia
Language English
Number of Pages 192
Publication Date 2026-05-05
Text Type Fiction—Science Fiction/Fantasy
BISACS JUV012040, JUV001000, JUV037050
Dewey [Fic]
Dimensions 5 x 7.75
Features Author/Illustrator biography and Reviewed

Author: Annaleise Byrd

Annaleise Byrd grew up on a farm in Queensland. She now lives in Brisbane with her husband, two young sons, and rescue greyhound, and she is particularly fond of lamingtons. You can find her online at www.annaleisebyrd.com.

Reviews

Kirkus Reviews

“This sequel to Losing the Plot (2025) is another fun fantasy for those who enjoy whimsical riffs on classics and for young storytellers who enjoy imagining the effects of story craft upon its characters. . . . Complex and creative, a slightly wonky exploration of fairy-tale fare.”—Kirkus Reviews