The Seer of Shadows

Reach for this book when your child is starting to grapple with the gray areas of morality, specifically the heavy weight of a guilty conscience or the consequences of being a bystander to dishonesty. Set in 1872 New York, the story follows Horace, a photography apprentice who gets swept up in a scheme to fake ghost photos for grieving families. While it begins as a historical mystery about swindling, it transforms into a chilling ghost story when a real, vengeful spirit is accidentally summoned. It is a sophisticated choice for middle schoolers who enjoy spooky thrills but are also ready to discuss the ethics of honesty and the danger of seeking revenge. Parents will appreciate how Avi uses the historical setting to explore timeless themes of integrity and the psychological toll of keeping secrets.