For children learning to manage unexpected burdens and connect with unusual friends, this graphic novel explores the adventure of accepting a unique legacy.
A parent might reach for this book when their child is facing a new, overwhelming responsibility or feels isolated by their unique circumstances. This graphic novel tells the story of Emmeline, who inherits her grandmother's house only to discover she has also inherited the job of 'Ghostkeeper,' guiding spirits to the afterlife. It beautifully explores themes of bravery, loneliness, and finding your place through friendship. For ages 9 to 13, this fantasy adventure uses ghosts as a gentle metaphor for managing difficult emotions and inherited burdens, making it a great choice for kids who need to see that they have the strength to handle unexpected challenges.
Characters are pursued and threatened by a supernatural creature throughout the climax.
Sensitive Topics
The book deals directly with the death of a grandparent, which serves as the inciting incident for the plot. The grief is present but not the primary focus, which is more on the legacy and responsibility the death creates. The approach to the afterlife is secular and fantastical, not tied to any specific religion. The resolution is hopeful, with the protagonist embracing her new role and found family.
Ideal Reader
A sensitive 10 to 12-year-old who enjoys 'cozy spooky' stories like 'Sheets' or 'The Okay Witch.' This is for a child grappling with new, heavy responsibilities (like a big move, family changes, or academic pressure) and needs a story that validates feeling overwhelmed while modeling resilience and the power of friendship.
Parent Prep
The book can be read cold. Parents may want to preview the depiction of the shadow monster, as its design could be frightening for very sensitive readers. A pre-reading conversation about family legacies or how we remember people we've lost could provide helpful context, but is not essential. A parent notices their child seems burdened by expectations or is withdrawing due to feeling different. The child might say something like, "This is too much for me," or "No one understands what it's like to be me."
Age Experience
A younger reader (9-10) will likely focus on the adventure plot: making friends with a ghost, solving a mystery, and fighting a cool-looking monster. An older reader (11-13) will connect more deeply with Emmeline's internal journey: her imposter syndrome, the weight of her new identity, and the theme of building a support system when you feel alone.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many ghost stories focused on horror or jump scares, this graphic novel frames the paranormal as a responsibility of care and empathy. It uses the 'ghostkeeper' role as a powerful, accessible metaphor for managing inherited emotional burdens and anxiety. Its unique strength is in blending a classic spooky adventure with a gentle, character-driven story about mental and emotional resilience.
Read plot summary
After the death of her estranged grandmother, Emmeline inherits her house and discovers she is the next in a line of Ghostkeepers, tasked with helping spirits pass on. Feeling isolated and overwhelmed, she befriends a ghost boy named Simon and a new living friend, Kelley. Together, they must learn the rules of ghostkeeping and confront a dangerous, soul-eating shadow monster that threatens the town.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Emmeline feels overwhelmed by her new job as Ghostkeeper. Have you ever felt like you were given a responsibility that was too big for you? How did you handle it?
2
Simon the ghost is stuck and can't move on. Why do you think he and Emmeline become friends so quickly? What does each of them need from the other?
3
At first, Emmeline wants to get rid of her Ghostkeeper duties. By the end, she accepts them. What do you think changes her mind?
4
Kelley is a great friend to Emmeline, even when things get weird and scary. What qualities in Kelley make her a supportive friend when Emmeline is going through a tough time?
