Eva Sees a Ghost

Rebecca Elliott's 'Eva Sees a Ghost' is a charming entry in the popular Owl Diaries series, designed specifically for early readers within Scholastic's Branches imprint. The story centers on Eva Wingdale, a young owl who believes she's seen a ghost, a claim initially met with skepticism by her classmates. This sets up a gentle mystery that unfolds as a large, white object eventually lands on the school roof, prompting everyone to reconsider Eva's initial sighting. The book handles the 'scary' topic of a ghost with a light touch, making it more about curiosity and problem-solving than genuine fright. The emotional arc is one of initial doubt and mild frustration for Eva, transitioning to validation and shared discovery. This book is ideal for children aged 5-7 who are transitioning to independent reading or for a comforting read-aloud. Parents might reach for this when their child is experiencing a mild fear, feeling misunderstood by peers, or simply looking for an engaging, fast-paced story with relatable characters. The heavily illustrated format, characteristic of Branches books, provides strong visual support for emerging readers. While many early readers tackle friendship and school life, this book stands out with its blend of a light mystery and the whimsical, diary-entry style that makes the Owl Diaries series so appealing.