The Skull of Truth: A Magic Shop Book
By Bruce Coville
Illustrated by Gary A. Lippincott
Ages 7-12
Kindle, Library, PB Audio

Charlie Eggleston stumbles into Mr. Elive’s mysterious magic shop and finds a wise-cracking skull that leads him into the adventure of a lifetime. The skull makes its owner be honest, and through it he confronts his uncle’s homosexuality, a friend’s cancer and other issues.  The relationship between Charlie and his uncle is a good one, and it’s realistically portrayed.  And it’s a good mystery!