Cory Putman Oakes

Willow will do anything to make sure her family’s Haunted Hotel runs perfectly and that the ghosts DO NOT FADE. But it’s a hard job. Dad is depressed, mom’s floating around (and not in a good way), and a truant officer is coming to get her. But she needs her family, and her famly of ghosts to keep the tradition and the hotel alive. But bad news has moved in down the street: a Hauntery opens up next door, Willow has got to come up with some way to keep the Zagged guide star.

Evie, is a new resident of the Hauntery. She is doomed to forever play scarly little girl in a pink dress and pigtails. What she really wants to be is the star attraction of a haunted hotel, a scary Phantasm. But she’s a ghost, and must play on people's fears to keep from fading. When these two girls get together there is nothing they can’t do.

This book was charming. It’s peppered with illustrations. The way the ghosts interact and are a part of the story is not scary, but loving, and an everyday occurrence. You feel for Willow who with little to no notice when from normal girl, to person in card over night. You also fee for Evie, constantly being told she must forever remain one thing, a kid. This book looks at loss in a very loving and moving way, while also being a comedy delight. It was a thoroughly enjoyable read for 3rd grade and up (maybe even younger) and would probably be a great audiobook. I can easily see it being snapped up for a movie or a series.… (altro)