The Old Willis Place: A Ghost Story

Diana and her younger brother, Georgie, have been living on the grounds of the old Willis place for oh, so long. They've seen caretakers come and go, but the new one seems different. Mr. Morrison has a daughter, Lissa, who seems to be about Diana's age. Both girls are lonely and long for a friend but Georgie reminds Diana that it's "against the rules" to have friends; that they must remain out of sight. But Lissa remains intriguing to the children. She not only has a bicycle, but she also has many books and a stuffed animal that reminds Georgie of one he once had. They share even more; Lissa, too, has suffered a huge loss. Masterfully constructed, the story shows readers the same events from the perspectives of both girls; Diana narrates, and Lissa writes in her diary. The combination builds tension, raises questions, and allows characters-and the mysteries that surround them-to unfold gradually. The story is taut, spooky, and fast-paced with amazingly credible, memorable characters. More than just a ghost story, this riveting novel is a mystery and a story of friendship and of redemption. After this tale, readers are not likely to think of ghosts in the same way.

Copyright 2004 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

"Hahn is a master at . . . suspense. . . . Kids will love this; it's just the right mix of chilling and thrilling."
—Booklist

"The young characters . . . are sympathetic and believable. . . . Spooky, but with an underlying sweetness."
—Kirkus Reviews

"Hahn's sure hand at haunting is evident . . . creepy and enjoyable . . . it'll need no ghostly assistance to fly off the shelves."
—The Bulletin

* "Masterfully constructed . . . taut, spooky, and fast-paced with amazingly credible, memorable characters . . . riveting . . . a story of friendship and redemption."
—School Library Journal, starred review

"A mystery intertwined with a ghost story . . . a delicate message of guilt, forgiveness, loyalty, and friendship . . . a satisfying ending."
—VOYA