Rules for Ghosting

Gr 4–6—Due to some unfortunate paperwork errors, 12-year-old ghost Dahlia Silverton has been stuck in Silverton Manor for years, lonely and with no memory of her life after age 10, or how she died. Finally addressing her case, the Spectral Investigative Council, or Ghouncil, sends a Liberator to help her discover what is anchoring her to the manor so that she can cross over. Meanwhile, Oliver Day arrives with his family of professional house-sitters charged with making the mansion ready for auction in six months. Tired of moving from place to place, Oliver is determined to make Silverton Manor the Days' new home. When Dahlia's Liberator, Mrs. Tibbs, is captured by a ghost hunter posing as a repairman, Dahlia may have to break the most important of all the Ghouncil's rules and make contact with the living to get Oliver's help. The novel's strength lies in the two main characters. Dahlia and Oliver are likable and capable protagonists. Dahlia's desire for closure and knowledge of her past and Oliver's craving for a real home drive their actions, but both are quick to come to each other's aid along with Oliver's younger sister, Poppy. The story is nicely paced with short chapters, though some readers may wish for more details of the climactic moments in Dahlia's life once her memory returns as well as more on how the Ghouncil operates. Still, this is an entertaining read for children who enjoy gentle ghost stories.—Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL