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The Gift: A Sammy Greene Adventure

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“If you follow your destiny, you cannot fail. From the first sentence to the last, The Gift had me hooked. When Sammy's nightmares about a little white dog leave physical marks, he is forced on an adventure that is both scary and dangerous. Quinn crafted Sammy's character so well, you'll feel like he's a kid from down the block.” –Amy S. Cutler, author of A Shadow of Love

"When your strength is greater than your fear, your courage stronger than your doubt… that is when the magic happens."

Plagued by a strange recurring dream that reveals a secret gift, 12-year-old Sammy Greene sets off to save the little white dog from his dream and fulfill his destiny. But when the dog leads Sammy to an animal-testing operation deep in the woods, Sammy unwittingly discovers Max and Bets, two rookie criminals, and their harebrained internet scam to make millions.

Kidnapped and tied to a chair—surrounded by suffering animals—Sammy is armed with only a pet mouse, a nearly dead cell phone, a hoodie, and his dead grandmother's cryptic advice. Forced to face his greatest fear, the fear of failure, Sammy has to figure out a way to escape and save dozens of lives, including his own!

Sammy's gift has morphed into a dangerous mission, and he knows he's been sent to shut Max and Bets down. Unfortunately, Max and Bets plan to shut Sammy down—permanently.

The Gift is a fast-paced, action-packed adventure with a hint of magic that will keep you guessing until the very last page. Don't miss the first book in this exciting new middle-grade series! Pick up your copy today.

242 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 23, 2024

6 people are currently reading
563 people want to read

About the author

E.C. Quinn

1 book14 followers
E.C. Quinn is a lifelong animal lover, avid reader, and author of multiple stories for both kids and adults, with 25 stories published in Guide magazine and two stories in Chicken Soup for the Soul books. Premonition: The Gift, Quinn’s debut novel, is book one in her middle-grade adventure series. Stay tuned for the second book in the Premonition series as well as her upcoming debut adult novel, a psychological thriller.

A Wisconsin native, Quinn lives in a tiny town near Madison, and when not writing or working with writers, she enjoys reading, running, traveling to Michigan and Iowa to spend time with her kids, and hanging out with her furry friends: one energetic rescue dog and three cats (two sweet as pie, one naughty as can be!) Throughout the year, she participates in a variety of both virtual and in-person book events, including book festivals, school visits, and library talks, where she enjoys chatting about writing and sharing her passion for books and reading. E.C. Quinn also loves connecting with readers! Visit her website at https://www.ecquinnauthor.com/ and then follow her on Instagram @ecquinnauthor and Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ECQuinnauthor/

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Profile Image for Cam Torrens.
Author 6 books117 followers
June 16, 2024
I grew up in a home where my mother told me every day to chase my dreams, follow my destiny, and that I could become anything I wanted. When I grew up I discovered these weren't false hopes--but rather ideals that morphed as I got older. Your dreams change, your destiny is altered, and the thing you wanted to be as a child wasn't necessarily what you wanted to be as an adult.

But youth is all about possibilities and EC Quinn takes us back to our childhood dreams in her wonderful story The Gift. Sammy has lost a father, his dignity, and his routine when he discovers he's been gifted a unique ability with accompanying responsibility. He's not even sure he wants "the gift." But with the help of a mouse named Cal and a dog he calls Millie, Sammy discovers earlier than most that what he wants can change. And in the process, Sammy grows up.

Bravo to EC Quinn for providing me a one-day read that scared me, saddened me, and--in the end--inspired me!
Profile Image for Lena.
Author 8 books253 followers
December 12, 2024
"In Premonition: The Gift, Sammy struggles, both socially at school and at home with his father's disappearance. To make matters worse, he's suddenly seeing things and hearing the voice of his dead grandmother. Her gift and her words propel him into a dangerous world where he can either be the hero and save suffering animals, or he can keep quiet and stay out of trouble."
Profile Image for Book Reviewer.
4,783 reviews442 followers
April 11, 2024
Premonition: The Gift, the inaugural entry in E.C. Quinn's middle-grade adventure series, introduces readers to the world through the eyes of 12-year-old Sammy Greene. Often the target of school bullies, Sammy's ordinary life takes a turn towards the extraordinary following a school incident and a bizarre accusation. This event unlocks a hidden aspect of his destiny, propelling him into a realm of enigmatic dreams, family secrets, and a cryptic message from his grandmother.

At its core, Premonition: The Gift is a narrative of resilience, portraying how confronting our deepest fears can be the ultimate test of courage. Quinn skillfully weaves suspense, mystery, and supernatural elements, maintaining a delicate balance throughout the story. Sammy, portrayed with maturity and sensitivity beyond his years, navigates challenges that mirror those faced by many young people. In Sammy's journey, these trials unfold with far-reaching implications, enriching the narrative with layers of urgency and significance that add depth to his story. E.C. Quinn's portrayal of Sammy highlights a crucial message: irrespective of one's age, individuals possess the power to effect change in the world. His journey serves as a poignant reminder that our most significant gifts often lead us into peril, where we discover our true strength. Aimed at middle-grade readers, this book delivers an adventurous tale. It deftly explores moral complexities while infusing the story with magical elements that will captivate young readers. Quinn navigates the darker themes of animal testing and kidnapping with a light touch, ensuring they are well-balanced with the lighter aspects typical of middle-grade fiction.

Premonition: The Gift by E.C. Quinn is a commendable addition to the middle-grade literary landscape. It presents a blend of adventure, moral introspection, and the fantastical, appealing to a wide range of young readers. The novel not only entertains but also offers deeper reflections on bravery, the challenges of adolescence, and the impact of individual choices. Quinn's ability to balance darker themes with the whimsical elements of middle-grade fiction makes this book a noteworthy and engaging read.
Profile Image for Socr8es.
7 reviews2 followers
May 31, 2024
SPOILER ALERT — Don’t read the description posted on the book's page to your middle-grade reader. It will spoil some of the surprises in this enchanting story.
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I wish I had books like this one when I was a boy in middle school. I might have learned to read for pleasure at a much younger age.
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At the beginning of the story, twelve-year-old Sammy is dealing with a bully at school, abandonment by his father, betrayal by his best friend, a disturbing recurring nightmare (Premonition), and controversy about his pet mouse, Cal. The nightmare, though, leaves him each time with physical wounds that could only come from real life.
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When Sammy’s mother shares with him the letter his maternal grandmother left for him before she died, Sammy is drawn into a series of dangers in which he must discover and use the hidden power she left him (the Gift). The stakes are high, not only for Sammy, when he finds himself in an abandoned place cut off from outside contact, trapped and threatened.
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Sammy confronts his fears and fulfills his destiny while narrowly escaping death and being shunned at school. This story is alive with fantasy and like a thriller draws readers from one suspenseful turn to another.
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The five things Sammy is dealing with at the beginning of the novel are all tied together by the end — save one. Yet at the end of the novel Sammy has another premonition. We are not shown what it means or what risks it will pose to Sammy or others dear to him.
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When will the second book in this series be available to readers?!
Profile Image for Michelle Caffrey.
Author 5 books32 followers
June 4, 2024
Sammy, who’s just twelve, has to deal with a bully, his dad leaving, his best friend betraying him, a scary dream that won’t go away (Premonition), and drama over his pet mouse, Cal. To top it off, the nightmare leaves him with real-life injuries.
Sammy’s life takes a treacherous turn when his mother gives him a letter from his late grandma that presents him with his unique gift. Following his premonition, he finds himself trapped in an abandoned building, where he must use his smarts to outwit criminals to save missing pets — and himself.
I rooted for this reluctant hero and delighted with the satisfying ending. I’m sure middle school readers will enjoy this first novel by EC Quinn and will look forward to the next one in the series.


70 reviews8 followers
July 19, 2024
The Gift is a middle grade book about what it means to be brave. Bravery, in the case of Sammy Greene, is not the absence of fear, nor is it a cool resolve in the face of danger. It is a compulsion to do the right thing, as he learns when he embarks on a mission to rescue a mysterious dog in the woods. Full of all of the messy emotions that accompany all kids looking for answers, it is, above all else, a story about resolve. Will Sammy continue to hide from his gift of premonition? Or will he pursue his answers, if it means saving an innocent animal? Recommended for any kids who feel different, and don't know who to turn to.
Profile Image for Gayle Brown.
Author 2 books56 followers
May 20, 2024
Premonition: The Gift, the first book in an exciting new middle-grade series, takes readers on a captivating journey filled with mystery, friendship, and the power of trusting one's instincts. E.C. Quinn weaves a tale that effortlessly blends the supernatural with real-world issues, creating an engaging and thought-provoking story.

The story follows middle-school-aged Sammy, an ordinary, somewhat outcast boy who unexpectedly inherits a remarkable gift from his late grandmother. When Sammy receives a mysterious letter unveiling the truth about his newfound ability, he finds himself thrust into a thrilling adventure to rescue animals being cruelly tested on in the nearby woods. Initially skeptical about his premonitions, Sammy soon discovers the importance of embracing his gift as he uncovers the plight of innocent creatures and faces a pair of menacing adversaries.

One of the highlights of this book is the relatability of its protagonist. Sammy's initial doubts and hesitations about his powers make him a believable and endearing character. Readers will empathize with his journey of self-discovery and be inspired by his determination to make a difference. The author skillfully portrays Sammy's growth, capturing his evolving confidence and inner strength as he becomes more attuned to his premonitions.

The narrative is fast-paced and brimming with suspense, ensuring that readers will be captivated from beginning to end. The plot cleverly combines elements of fantasy and adventure with real-world issues, making the story not only entertaining but also thought-provoking. The exploration of animal testing serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of compassion and the need to protect our fellow creatures. And Sammy’s sidekick, Cal, a mouse, is a perfect addition who joins him on his mission to save the animals. Max and Bets, the villains of the story, are suitably menacing and provide an excellent foil for Sammy's bravery and resourcefulness.

As the first installment in a series, Premonition: The Gift leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next adventure in Sammy's life. The open-ended conclusion ensures that there are more mysteries to unravel, challenges to overcome, and lessons to be learned. This open-endedness will undoubtedly leave readers speculating about what exciting journeys Sammy will embark upon next.

In conclusion, Premonition: The Gift is a captivating middle-grade book that combines thrilling action, relatable characters, and important themes. E.C. Quinn has crafted an imaginative and engaging story that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Sammy's remarkable journey.
Author 26 books309 followers
August 16, 2025
Premonition Series: The Gift
In The Gift, E C Quinn crafted a story that weaves together social issues of bullying, an absent father, and a deceased clairvoyant grandmother with a message for her grandson. Her note advises Sammy to, “Accept the Gift with courage, unwavering curiosity, and an open heart”. But Sammy resists. He has enough problems without messing with magic.
And yet Sammy’s kind heart prompts him to follow a little white dog that appears hurt and in pain, until the dog turns around and bites him. Then the dog erupts in Sammy’s dream and again leaves signs of a physical encounter.
One night, a force propels Sammy to yield to his Gift. He steps off a known hiking trail, into the woods, and pursues the little white dog who leads him to a cabin. Whimpering floats from the windows, and Sammy enters the building and discovers cages of animals used for experiments. As he works the ropes tying a dog to a table, the scraping of a door and voices alert Sammy of someone’s arrival.
The villains, Max and Bets, march in with another victim. Sammy hides beneath a worktable, listening to the couple discuss their “wonder cream” and the anguish cries of a cat. Within moments, the pair locate Sammy and tie him to a chair. But his grandmother’s voice commands him to consider the suffering animals and fight this battle with his mind. Then his pet mouse, Cal, struggles in his shirt pocket.
Throughout the novel, Cal is a guiding light, a small animal with a big role as he calms Sammy when he is stressed, and Cal understands to nibble through the ropes biding best friend. The pair shoot out of the cabin, find the little white dog and head for home. More troubles interrupt his flight, but Sammy and Cal show young readers that courage and an open heart can overcome criminals and achieve unmeasured success.
1 review
May 21, 2024
The Gift offers young readers a chance to engage in the every day challenges and rapid-fire trains of thoughts that mirror their own unspoken story lines. We hear Sammy Greene’s every idea and notion ping ponging through his brain as he travels uncharted territory on his journey. Using what he knows, what he fears, and what he is facing, he synthesizes his thoughts into actions that help him work through situations with outcomes that shape his future.

Though the “Gift” of premonition that Sammy shares with his late Grandmother is uncovered as an extra-sensory talent, it can be seen as an allegory to the typical all-consuming, seemingly unsurmountable challenges teens face: bullying, stress, image, confidence, etc. The book “safely” addresses these challenges by weaving them into the story line, shaping them into road bumps that can be overcome.

An unbelievable, yet somehow very real adventure awaits you in The Gift with its physical and emotional energy, thickening plot, and faux-finale glimpse into the next novel .

If it was a Netflix series, the adjectives might read: Action Thriller * Adventure * Teen
Profile Image for Paul Jantzen.
Author 1 book26 followers
August 26, 2025
Bestowed a unique power he never wanted, our hero, Sammy must come to grips with the fact he is special and he does stand out. Growing up, the idea of being special and having “A Gift” would seem to be a dream come true for most kids, but Sammy just wants a normal existence. Ya’ see, he has been dealt a rough start for a twelve-year-old, so when he is told of his ability his immediate reaction is to reject it. He would prefer to have his father back and for the bullying to stop.

Something changes for Sammy, as he learns life is more complicated than what’s on the surface. With the help of a pet mouse named Cal, Sammy journeys down an unknown and arduous path. It is possible this new path was a wonderful distraction from his troubles. Until he was introduced to a whole new set of troubles.

This story is about perseverance, acceptance, and having the courage to be who you are, because no matter what you decide, your choices will always play a part in defining you.

EC Quinn portrays a charming story of likable characters and heart tugging situations with a great pace and solid prose. Well done.
120 reviews2 followers
May 24, 2024
A suspenseful page-turner with 12 year old protagonist Sammy Greene that is sure to become a favorite hero of everyone who dives into The Gift. Sammy manages to confront two creepy criminals deep in a forest while dealing with everyday challenges in his school life - bullies, missed assignments and friends that don't really understand him. When a recurring dream and a letter from his late grandmother present him with a unique gift to save some missing pets and come face to face with a criminal enterprise, Sammy must use his smarts to save his community and himself. I fell in love with Sammy, his sidekick Cal, and his quirky ways that make him the best kind of hero. I can't wait to see how Sammy solves the mysterious challenges that await him in the next book in this delightful series.
Profile Image for Kimberly Kenna.
Author 5 books27 followers
November 1, 2025
"Open yourself to the clues…to the mysterious…to the downright strange. When it makes no sense at all, listen closer!" Sammy's grandmother's words are both universal and, for me, personal. Such bright spots are sprinkled throughout this book, making it a wonderful discussion-starter as well as a fun, fast-paced read...for kids and their adults.
Author E.C. Quinn has a talent for dialogue, and her characters are well-developed and relatable. The more challenging parts of Sammy's story are softened with humor and hope--a must for this age group. In the end, you'll be glad to have shared this bit of Sammy's adventures and will be on the lookout for more.
3 reviews
May 21, 2024
The world needs more Sammys! It’s so rare to find suspenseful page-turners with a heroic protagonist like Sammy, a 12-year-old boy who has a heart of gold! Sammy starts out reluctant and scared (totally relatable) and throughout the book, he learns grit, determination, and to trust and lean into his abilities—a great lesson for us all! If you’re looking to get lost in a fast-paced story where the characters spring to life and you can’t put the book down, then look no further! Can’t wait for the next book and Sammy’s next big adventure!
Profile Image for Autumn Raine.
65 reviews
May 28, 2024
Reading this book was such a delight! Despite being twelve, Sammie is so relatable. I felt myself empathizing with his struggles at school, his conflict about his identity and his fight about whether or not to step into his destiny. Every time something went right, I cheered, and every time something went wrong, I was scrolling to the next page to find out what happened next. The entire read brought me back to when I was a child myself, reading Nancy Drew books to my mom at the kitchen table, except this mystery includes magical dreams and cool powers! I can’t wait for the next adventure!
1 review
Read
May 27, 2024
“Premonition: The Gift” tackles some major issues pertinent to kids today - bullying, peer pressure, broken homes and changing relationships - just to name a few. All beautifully interwoven in this charming mystery full of interesting characters - some predictable, some not. Author E.C. Quinn brings a lot to the table with this story about acceptance. Can’t wait to see where Sammy’s newfound purpose leads him, Cal and Millie next!!
1 review
May 23, 2024
I fell in love with Sammy instantly and found myself rooting for him from my gut; his trials, emotions, and thought processes are so relatable for a kid of his age that his character is both endearing and heart-breaking on every page. Combined with E.C. Quinn's talent for cliffhangers, I couldn't stop reading - I had to know if this sweet kid was going to be ok!
2 reviews
Read
May 24, 2024
Sammy Green is a typical 12-year-old boy who experiences non-typical achievements against seemingly insurmountable odds. E.C. Quinn compels the reader to follow Sammy’s adventures through mystery, fear, and anger. The intrigue and twists in plot keep the reader engaged and in suspense throughout the book.
1 review
May 27, 2024
Vivid storytelling + cliffhanger mission = perfect summer read.

Found myself laughing at the middle school realities and rooting for the reluctant hero Sammy as he discovers a family superpower. Sammy’s seemingly impossible mission takes him and a beloved pet on a path where they must work together or else. Relatable and engaging
3 reviews
August 16, 2024
Sammy is a lovable protagonist whose discoveries and bravery make the novel a great read for both YA and adults. Sammy's exploits and growth as a character are a great combination for a series that will leave the reader anticipating the next book. E.C. Quinn hits the mark with her first volume of the Sammy Greene Adventures.
44 reviews2 followers
October 10, 2025
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.

This book is full of mystery, action, and just enough suspense to keep us hooked without being too intense. Sammy is a smart, brave character and it was fun trying to solve the mystery together. Definitely a great read for both kids and adults who love a good adventure!
1 review1 follower
May 19, 2024
This is a delightful page-turner! Sammy is a character most of us can identify with, who is given a gift that is both alluring and aggravating. Watching Sammy thwart danger and grow through experiences was exciting and heart-warming. I can't wait for Sammy's next big adventure!
Profile Image for Connie Richardson.
7 reviews1 follower
May 22, 2024
Middle grade readers will love this suspenseful, adventurous book! I loved following Sammy's journey, and Cal is the best sidekick. Teachers and librarians should make sure they have this book in their classrooms and libraries!
1 review
April 14, 2025
Action packed from the first sentence, it's a quick read that always has something happening. I enjoyed following along with Sammy and can't wait for book two. I read this now that I'm older but am positive that this book would have been one of my favorites if I had read it when I was middle grade.
Profile Image for Peggy Williams.
Author 5 books46 followers
December 20, 2024
In Premonition: The Gift, Sammy, a seemingly ordinary 6th grader who dreads getting bullied, doesn’t know he has a gift—until it starts showing up in his nightmares. Sammy’s “gift” gives him just enough insight—if he can figure out what his dreams mean—to save not just one dog but many animals that need rescuing. He is a reluctant hero, who prefers to stay out of the spotlight. But he is determined and caring. This book has lots of twists and turns and kept me turning pages because I cared about its young hero. A great book for middle grade readers.
1 review
September 3, 2024
Really enjoyed reading Premonition: the Gift! The characters are relatable & well developed & the plot keeps you turning the pages. Upper elementary readers won’t be able to put it down!
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