Alisse Lee Goldenberg’s recent novel, The Ghost in the Garden, is a compelling middle-grade narrative set against the contemporary backdrop of Canada. The story follows young Sophie Madison, who relocates with her family from the bustling city of Calgary to the quaint town of Stratford, Ontario. In this new setting, Sophie grapples with the challenges of adapting to a century-old house previously inhabited by another girl her age. The plot thickens as Sophie, with the help of her new friend Fitz Thompson, becomes intrigued by the mysterious girl, Tabitha, in her garden and unsettling nightmares related to her closet, leading them to question if her room might be haunted.

The book adeptly weaves themes of friendship, the significance of reunions, and the allure of ghostly mysteries. A particularly commendable aspect of the narrative is its portrayal of adult figures who are receptive and supportive when Sophie shares her concerns about the mysterious activities, underlining the vital message that adults are allies for young people navigating perplexing situations. The dynamics of Sophie’s relationships with her parents, Tabitha and Fitz, are portrayed naturally with a sense of realism and progress, enhancing the story’s authenticity. While the text messaging exchanges in the dialogue have a classic flair that may differ from current trends, this style adds a unique charm to the narrative, providing an interesting contrast to the communication styles prevalent among today’s younger generations.

Alisse Lee Goldenberg’s The Ghost in the Garden is a captivating and spine-tingling book that is perfect for middle-grade readers who love to get lost in a ghostly adventure. The author’s masterful storytelling and vividly drawn characters make the book a delightful and immersive read, while its eerie atmosphere and haunting plot twists will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of ghost stories or just looking for a thrilling new read, The Ghost in the Garden is not to be missed.

Pages: 196 | ASIN : B0CKY8GPPW

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/02/21/the-ghost-in-the-garden/