For the child grappling with bullying or feeling like an outsider, this book explores finding inner strength and navigating challenging social dynamics.
A parent might reach for this book when their child is the target of rumors or social bullying and feels isolated at school. It tells the story of David Borelli, the new kid in seventh grade, who becomes the victim of a bully's bizarre rumor: that David is actually a ghost. Instead of succumbing to the isolation, David cleverly decides to lean into the rumor, using his wits to turn the tables on his tormentor. This book is a humorous and empowering look at resilience, creative problem-solving, and finding friendship in unexpected places. For ages 9-12, it's a fantastic choice for kids who appreciate a smart protagonist who uses his brain, not his fists, to overcome a serious problem.
The core topic is bullying, specifically social isolation and rumor-spreading. The approach is direct, clearly showing the emotional pain of being an outcast. The resolution is hopeful and empowering, achieved through the protagonist's own ingenuity rather than adult intervention. The story is secular and while it uses the idea of a ghost, it does not deal with death or the supernatural in a serious way.
Ideal Reader
This is for the 9-11 year old who feels like an outsider, particularly a child who is more introverted or cerebral and would not respond to advice like 'just punch the bully back'. It’s for the kid who appreciates clever plans and underdog stories, and who needs a model for using their intelligence to solve social problems.
Parent Prep
No special preparation is required; the book can be read cold. The bullying is psychological, not physical. A parent might want to use it as a springboard to discuss the difference between harmless pranks and actions intended to cause fear or embarrassment, even when the target is a bully. A parent notices their child is being socially excluded at school. The child might say, 'A kid is spreading lies about me,' or 'No one will talk to me.' The parent is looking for a story that models proactive, non-violent, and creative self-advocacy.
Age Experience
A 9-year-old will enjoy the funny 'haunting' scenes and the clear hero versus villain story. An 11 or 12-year-old will have a greater appreciation for the psychological strategy David employs, the nuances of peer pressure, and the subtle shifts in the school's social power structure.
What Makes It Special
Among many books about bullying, this one stands out by championing intellectual retaliation. The protagonist doesn't just tell an adult or 'learn to ignore it'. He actively uses the bully's own weapon (rumors and perception) against him in a clever and humorous way. It empowers kids to see their own creativity and intelligence as powerful tools.
Read plot summary
Seventh-grader David Borelli is new to town and immediately targeted by the school bully, Nick. Nick starts a strange and effective rumor that David is a ghost, leading to David's complete social ostracization. After initial despair, David decides to fight back not with force, but with wit. He embraces the ghost persona, orchestrating a series of clever, non-violent 'hauntings' to get back at Nick. He finds an unexpected ally in Frankie, another outsider, and together they work to reclaim David's social standing and identity.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
David decides to pretend he really is a ghost instead of just telling a teacher about Nick. Why do you think he made that choice? When is it better to handle a problem yourself versus asking an adult for help?
2
Frankie becomes David's friend and helps him with his plan. What qualities made Frankie a good and trustworthy friend for David in this situation?
3
At the end of the book, Nick is embarrassed but not seriously hurt. Do you think David's 'revenge' was fair? What's the difference between getting even and getting justice?
4
The rumor about David being a ghost spread very quickly. Why do you think the other kids were so quick to believe it and go along with Nick's bullying?
