Review Detail

Aggie is thrilled to live on her own, but unfortunately for her, she just found out that the house is haunted. But no need to worry, she’s certain that a list of rules can solve this problem. Though this ghost doesn’t like following rules, and sets up their own challenge, a game of tic-tac-toe in which the winter gets the house.

What I liked: This book starts by introducing you to Aggie, who has just moved into her new place, which was a bit confusing because her appearance isn’t that of an adult. You get more of her personality as you continue reading, and you get to see the humorous things the ghost does as Aggie sets forth several rules for the house. The rules that Aggie sets forth are reasonable, but this ghost is set on breaking every rule that is set forth.

It's an exciting moment when Aggie is finally rid of the ghost once and for all, but as this happens, it is also bittersweet as she begins to miss the ghost’s presence. Aggie knows just what to do, though, to ensure that her ghost friend occasionally visits her on her own terms.

The illustrations throughout this book do a great job of setting the book during the fall season and preparing you for spooky season. They use darker, solemn colors but still have a welcoming feel to them so as not to scare younger readers. The illustrations feel like you are walking into a fantasy book in which anything is possible, such as ghosts and humans cohabitating.

Final Verdict: Aggie and the Ghost is a fun story about moving out and things not being as you expected. Children ages 4 and up will enjoy the antics that the ghost gets up to and how frustrated Aggie gets that her rules are not being followed. This is a great book to teach children respect and getting along well with others who may want things differently from you.