Shifters

by Nicole Kelly

When Emily moves to Japan with her father, nothing feels familiar - she doesn't speak the language, she doesn't understand the culture, and she's never felt more alone.

But everything changes in Kyoto, when she meets Koji - a boy with a mysterious connection to the spirit world. As ancient magic stirs and dark forces begin to close in, Emily is drawn into a hidden world of shapeshifters and secrets.

146 pages, Paperback

Published June 5, 2026

Reviews

[Veronica ⭐️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shifters is a magical, shape shifter, supernatural adventure for middle grade readers.

With friendship at its core Shifters is a story of trust, courage, embracing new experiences, forgiveness and fitting in.

I thoroughly enjoyed all the sights and foods of Kyoto and the information on Japanese myths and legends. Emily and Kyoto are fun characters, Emily shy and reticent, Kyoto confident and cheeky, they are easily identifiable to middle grade readers.

Reading Shifters is sure to ignite curiosity and encourage further research on Japan, its language and customs.

Read my full review at: https://littlesquirrelsbookshelf.blog...

[Kathleen O'Reilly Johnston]

I was lucky enough to read the ARC of Shifters! Nicole Kelly’s book kept me up reading under the covers! Marvellous and mythical. Full of mystery, family, friendship, fitting in and importantly the inherent power within us to change!

[Jack Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved following Emily on this incredible journey!

[Sam McNicol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anyone looking for an introduction to Japanese culture, folklore and symbology would do well to start here. Such a sweet, concise story that was hard to put down once I’d started.