Keep the Ghost Light On by Kate Messner

What worked:

Ghost lights in theaters stay on overnight or between performances, but they create an eerie setting for the story. Superstitions say they’re used to appease spirits, and an unsettled ghost is at the center of this plot. The author skillfully lets the conflict unfold slowly, with some chapters told from the ghost’s point of view. These chapters are written as play scripts because the ghost was once a stage performer in the early 1900s. She can’t communicate with the living in a normal manner, but she can make noises and move objects. The characters struggle to understand what’s happening, building suspense as the ghost becomes more desperate.

The story revolves around a play written by Luna based on the journal of a famous playwright, Clifton Henderson. However, the plot focuses on her friend, Daphne, since the ghost targets her for communication. Daphne had a humiliating moment with an eighth-grader, and she’s now battling self-doubt and embarrassment. This vulnerability creates an opening for the ghost, making Daphne the first one to realize its existence. Many books would have other characters doubt someone seeing ghosts, but this time, Daphne’s friends immediately support her. Most of the plot describes the efforts of Daphne, Luna, and Felix as they try to understand what the ghost wants. They figure out the ghost wants them to uncover the truth, but they don’t know what that means. Daphne assumes the performer was murdered, but she eventually realizes her talents and fame were stolen.

 What didn’t work as well:

The ghost’s abilities differ for some reason later in the book. She becomes visible and can talk when the plot reaches its climax. It seems the book leaves unanswered questions for other performers, so readers may feel there is unfinished business. It would be nice for an epilogue to mention the resolution.

 The final verdict:

This book will appeal to young readers with a love for ghost stories. Daphne and the ghost are vulnerable characters who are victims of mistreatment and ridicule. I recommend you give it a shot.