ALL THE LOVELY BAD ONES by Mary Downing Hahn

The New York Times Book Review says, “Spooky…A fine scary tale for a campfire.” That is a perfect description of ALL THE LOVELY BAD ONES.

The book reminds me of a Barbara Michaels’ novel, but for middle graders. There’s no gross horror like a “Friday The Thirteenth.” Instead it’s creepy with supernatural elements.

When Travis and his sister are banned from camp, they’re sent to spend the summer with their grandmother. She runs a Vermont Inn that has a history of ghost sightings. Travis and Corey decide to stir up some mischief, and the pair of them get WAY more than they bargained for.

A Tip for Writers: Study the voice of the ghosts, particularly Seth. The author does a brilliant job with characterization.