Quirky humor, a lovable protagonist, and a wild adventure make Hidden a treat for middle-grade readers.
Hidden by Olivia Gold is a zany, feel-good story that balances mystery, humor, and the awkward realities of middle school. Readers follow Xander Hall as he’s thrust into witness protection with his family and all the chaos involved in adjusting to a new identity, navigating quirky Utah culture, and unraveling a potentially dangerous mystery.
The adventure kicks off when two hilariously incompetent “dog groomers” attempt to rob Xander’s family but leave empty-handed. Suspecting a deeper conspiracy, Xander’s government-employed parents relocate the family to the small town of Gizmo, Utah. Suddenly, Xander is no longer a laid-back D.C. kid but a student at Morrison Middle School, where Soda Club rules and Jell-O is practically a religion. Xander’s dry wit and relatable struggles make him a delightful guide through this quirky, chaotic journey.
The book excels in its humor and heart. Xander’s internal monologue is full of sharp observations, from his dismay at Utah’s Jell-O obsession to his horror at Soda Club’s intensity. The supporting cast, including the over-the-top Hayleigh and loyal friend Jedediah, brings a mix of charm and absurdity. The “fish out of water” theme is handled with wit, making even mundane moments entertaining.
Some scenarios—like Hayleigh’s obsession with soda or the extreme enthusiasm of the Honeybee school culture—push believability. While this adds to the humor, it can feel over-the-top for readers who prefer more grounded stories. But trust me, as someone who’s lived and worked in Utah, Gold’s descriptions are not far off. And while Xander is well-developed, the supporting characters occasionally lean into caricature; but your average middle-grade reader won’t mind.
Hidden is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read perfect for middle-grade readers. Fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Spy School will feel right at home with Xander’s mix of dry humor and accidental heroism. This book is a fantastic choice for readers aged 9–13 who love quirky, humorous stories with a dash of mystery. It’s especially great for kids navigating their own middle school adventures or those who enjoy books with lovable, relatable protagonists. Whether you’re looking for a lighthearted mystery or just some laughs, Hidden will keep you entertained from start to finish.ds us of the power words hold—to heal, connect, and create entire worlds.
Thanks to Reedsy for providing me with the ARC of this novel.
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