The Ghost Box by Catherine Fisher

Their new house is nice, but her bedroom is a bit creepy.  She keeps seeing a boy in a tree trying to tell her something.  When she finds a small old box that is locked, she decides it must have come from him.  But why?

Stoke Books and Net Galley allowed me to read this book for review (thank you).  It will be published May 1st.  Stoke Books publishes books specifically for reluctant readers.  This one is:  Interest Age, 11+, Reading Age, 2nd Grade.  I read it and enjoyed it.  You don't have to be a reluctant reader to enjoy the story.

Sarah is determined to find a key to open the box, just like the boy ghost wants her to.  Who knows what kind of treasure might be in it?  The only problem she has is that she has to work with her new step-brother to do so.  He's older, dressing in Goth fashion, and he can drive.  For some reason, he doesn't want her to open the box.  She's stubborn, she's determined to find a way.  But when she does, she also finds out it could be terribly, terribly dangerous.

I enjoyed the tale because it's fantasy with the flavor of an old fairy tale combined with the new mixed families we see often these days.  Sarah doesn't like Matt and doesn't want him for a brother.  After this adventure, she views him a bit differently.  Better days will be ahead.  And Sarah is still here to enjoy them.

Happy reading.