Stories of Ghosts

Russell Punter's 'Stories of Ghosts' is a well-suited entry point into the spooky genre for early independent readers. As part of the Usborne Young Reading series, it delivers on its promise of accessible text and engaging narratives. The book presents several distinct ghost stories, each designed to be mildly thrilling rather than truly terrifying, making it appropriate for its target audience of 5-8 year olds. It handles the concept of ghosts in a classic, often atmospheric way, without delving into overly dark or complex themes. The emotional arc is generally one of mild suspense leading to a satisfying, non-frightening conclusion. This book is ideal for a child who enjoys a bit of a thrill, is curious about mysteries, and is gaining confidence in reading chapter books. A parent might reach for this when their child expresses interest in 'scary' stories but isn't ready for more intense content, or as a fun, quick read during Halloween or a rainy afternoon. No specific scenes require extensive previewing, as the content is carefully calibrated for young sensibilities. Younger children (4-6) will enjoy it as a read-aloud, while older children (7-8) will appreciate the independence of reading it themselves. Its strength lies in its gentle approach to a popular genre, making it a distinct choice from more intense ghost story collections.