“Childhood friends work to unravel a mystery surrounding their orphanage, an abandoned school, and the influential family tied to both. Willa's inquiries give clear shape to the failures of American social institutions. These negative situations are good narrative foils, instigating character development.”
-Foreword Reviews, Ian Dailey, 5-star review

“A gratifying and unforgettable story of belonging, family, and friendship, exploring themes of injustice, motherhood, the consequences of addiction, privilege, gender identity, and broken systems in a thoughtful way. This middle-grade mystery delivers. I highly recommend this finely written tale.”
-Readers’ Favorite, Emma Megan, 5-star review

“Upper middle grade and teen readers will find Willa’s story features modern-day concerns, such as drugs and social conditions, while placing Willa and her friends amidst a storm of controversy that is as much about a sense of place and home as it is about safety, recovery, and growth. …Evocatively thought-provoking.”
-Midwest Book Review, D. Donovan, and Donovan’s Bookshelf

“A vibrant middle grade mystery … Willa is a gem of a character who doesn't allow her circumstances to drag down her spirit. For their part, Kacey is a teen with a history of heartbreak, but who refuses to compromise their identity.”
-The BookLife Prize

“The representation is weaved unobtrusively throughout making this, in my opinion, a future classic like Holes or Wonder. The research for this book was impeccable. Everything which happens is taken from real life examples, adding to the legitimacy. While marketed at 10-14 year olds, I would highly recommend for older teens and adults alike.”

-Pending Plays, grade A

“Author Lauren Fischer has written a compelling story.”

-The Manhattan Book Review

Eleven-year-old Willa Johnson moved to the Southern Ohio Children’s Home after her mom died from an overdose. The old mansion is a safe haven in her small town for orphans affected by the opioid crisis, but the overburdened home teeters on the edge of financial ruin. The newest resident is Kacey, a nonbinary teen kicked out by parents who reject their identity. Willa and Kacey bond over the discovery of hidden diaries and unintentionally dig up a dark history that will forever change the kids’ future—for better or worse.

With Willa as the unforgettable ringleader, Orphanland is a hopeful coming-of-age mystery set against the backdrop of the opioid crisis, exploring themes of loss, privilege, social justice, and resilience. Containing plenty of mischief alongside tragedy and hope, Orphanland is perfect for middle grade and teen readers who enjoyed Sydney Dunlap’s Racing the Clouds and Kenneth M. Cadow’s Gather. It will also appeal to adult fans of Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver.

Read Chapter 1.