The Ghostkeeper: A Graphic Novel

Featured
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Publisher Name
G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers
Age Range
12+
Release Date
July 23, 2024
ISBN13
978-0593526675
ISBN10 or ASIN
   
Perfect for fans of everything from Lockwood & Co. to The Haunting of Hill House, this gothic graphic novel follows a young medium with the gift—or curse, as some might say—to communicate with the dead. This ghost story “powerfully, tenderly, and empathetically examines death, grief, and the afterlife” raved Kirkus in a starred review!

Dorian Leith can see ghosts. Not only that, he listens to their problems and tries to help them move on to the afterlife. It’s a gift that’s made him an outcast to everyone in town. That is except for his dearly departed grandmother, who he’s partnered with to turn this paranormal ability into an honest living, and the local bookshop owner, who seems to be the only non-deceased person willing to give him a chance. But it’s all worth it to Dorian, who feels like he’s been given a bigger purpose. A chance to save those who cannot save themselves.

Then one day, the key to Death’s Door is stolen, trapping all the ghosts in the land of the living. Since he’s only one who can see them, the spirits rely on Dorian to retrieve the key before it is too late. If they can’t move on, they’ll soon be consumed by a ghostly rot that has begun to plague them.

As it continues to fester and spread, and the ghosts become desperate for relief, Dorian must do whatever it takes to find a way to bring peace to the restless dead—even if that peace comes at the cost of his own….

Editor review

1 review
Heartwarming Story about Grief and Letting Go
(Updated: July 22, 2026)
Overall rating
 
4.5
Writing Style
 
4.0
Plot
 
5.0
Characters
 
4.0
Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)
 
5.0
What I Liked: This book took me a while to get to, even if it had been on my tbr for quite some time, because it was hard to find. I’m so glad that I finally got ahold of this book because it was a delightful read. It was fascinating to read as additional ghosts were introduced into Dorian’s life as he tries to balance his life as a ghost therapist and his relationship with Brody, the bookshop owner, and the ghost of his grandmother.

The illustrations throughout this book are wonderful and bring each page to life. The beautiful illustrations add a touch of softness to the ghosts, making even their rot have an appealing appearance. The illustrations add to the tone of the book and ensure that you are taken into this world that Dorian is in, and you are transported along with the ghosts through their hardships. There are moments in which the illustrations get dark in order to add to the eeriness, and this does a great job of differentiating when a ghost is scary versus when they are approachable.

The relationship that develops between Dorian and Lucy is fascinating as she takes him to be her older brother, and he kindly fills that role. Dorian doesn’t agree with the town on how to rid themselves of ghosts and would rather help them move on with their lives in a humane manner. It was refreshing to read as Dorian tried to heal the ghosts of their rot and how he spoke to them. The patience that Dorian has with others shines through the page, and you feel for him as he continues to give more of himself than he should. Dorian’s support system is important as he takes on more than he can carry, and they have to help pull him away from his own downfall.

Final Verdict: The Ghostkeeper: A Graphic Novel is a heartwarming story about grief, leaving others behind, and what happens when you won’t let go of the past. The relationships that are highlighted throughout the book are important in highlighting how support systems can help you navigate through difficulties. It was sweet to see how this story wraps up for everyone and how even a bittersweet ending can provide closure for all.
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