The Elevator Ghost

In episodic chapters that call to mind the quirky problem-solving of Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle, Huser (Skinnybones and the Wrinkle Queen) introduces Carolina Giddle, who drives into town on Halloween night and moves into #713 at the Blatchford Arms. Carolina's business card says it all: "Experienced babysitter, mah-jong instructor, and vegetarian caterer. Will do light housekeeping and seances upon request," and the Southern transplant uses the power of storytelling (ghost stories, in particular) to charm Blatchford's young residents. For unruly twins Dwight and Dwayne Fergus, a story about two boys who get on a skeleton's bad side after they steal its foot for a prank, is just enough to scare them straight; the tale of a mountain king who creates scary shadows helps timid Hubert Croop conquer his fear of the dark (along with the gift of a penlight). Although Huser's story is set in the present, the once-grand apartment setting, eccentric character names, and many candlelit storytelling sessions call to mind children's novels of yesteryear. Innerst's moody b&w illustrations make Carolina's eerie tales feel all the more real. Ages 8-11. Illustrator's agent: Susan Cohen, Writers House. (Aug.)

Carolina Giddle is the new babysitter at the Blatchford Arms. Armed with ghost stories and snacks, she travels from apartment to apartment dispensing lighthearted spookiness and tasty snacks that calm and soothe the children of the building. Each chapter contains one short ghost story. The tales are relatively tame and are appropriate for readers new to the genre or those faint of heart rather than the true horror enthusiast. When readers are finally introduced to the ghost in the elevator, the result is less than spectacular.—Elizabeth Speer, Cisco College, TX