Ghost Light (The Last Resort #3) by Sara Farizan

What worked:

This book is the third in the series, with each one written by a different author. This book opens with Rosteen in the spirit world, bored by the repetition and monotony of being a ghost. Teddy, Lila, and Caleb, three of his living friends, summon him. Rosteen warns them that the Fire Maiden is still active, and they should prepare for her attack. They decide to go on the offensive and figure out a way to stop her. The Fire Maiden has been killing and using people for decades, as she seeks revenge against the town of Castle Hill. The plot has a high level of anxiety, since no one knows what she has planned this time or when she will strike. She pops up several times throughout the book to remind readers she’s still furious and hatching a diabolical plan. Readers know the climax will explode during the Founder’s Day play.

Illustrations are included, adding to reader enjoyment and opening a creative feature. Young readers can scan a QR code on the book’s first page to open an electronic connection. Readers are directed to the Scholastic Books website where Teddy’s voice and image greet them. Readers are then directed to scan illustrations as they arise in the book, where a character summarizes information and asks for their participation. Readers answer character questions to check off tasks in an electronic journal before going back to the book. QR codes are unique to the book being used, so readers' progress on their electronic investigations and journal checklists are saved. Readers will not lose their progress when shifting back to reading the book.

What didn’t work as well:

The illustrations come at the end of chapters, instead of on the pages where they apply. By that time, the plot has moved on, so seeing the images is moot. The author probably does this so scanning pictures during their electronic investigations won’t interrupt any chapters.

The final verdict:

You should at least read the first book in the series, as this one ends it. The story is suspenseful, and the series ends with an emotional resolution. I recommend this series for middle-grade readers who love ghosts and mystery.