Home Sweet Horror

Gr 3–5—Liam and Kelly move with their father into a new home after their mother passes away. Eight-year-old Liam is immediately bothered by the creepy old house. He hears sounds and feels like he is being watched. No one else in his family senses anything until Kelly's friend, Mitali, comes for a visit. The scariness escalates when Mitali tricks them into repeatedly saying "Bloody Mary" in front of the bathroom mirror. An evil spirit is summoned, and no one can deny that something is wrong in the house. Frightening events follow, their dog disappears, and a mysterious message appears on their refrigerator: "Get out now. Love, Mom." The scratchy black-and-white illustrations enhance the mood of the story. The thrills and chills are delightfully spine-tingling in this truly terrifying tale. A great choice for reluctant readers.—Carol Hirsche, Provo City Library, UT