A Box of Bones

A parent might reach for this book for a child who loves a good ghost story but is also navigating the equally scary world of middle school social dynamics. It follows Kallie, a lonely girl dealing with a former best friend turned bully, who finds a mysterious box of animal bones. Her discovery coincides with the arrival of a secretive new neighbor and a terrifying creature that begins stalking their town. This book masterfully blends a genuinely spooky monster mystery with relatable themes of friendship, courage, and standing up for what's right. It's an excellent choice for tweens who are ready for some suspense and chills, but grounded in a story about confronting fears of all kinds, both supernatural and social.