About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is seeking a safe way to explore feelings of unease or when they are navigating the boundary between childhood imagination and reality. It is a perfect choice for the kid who loves the 'spooky season' vibe year-round and is starting to enjoy the adrenaline rush of a suspenseful mystery. Through the eyes of Mario, a city kid visiting the snowy woods of Vermont, children explore the tension between trusting their eyes and listening to the skeptical adults around them. The story balances classic creature-feature horror with themes of bravery and friendship. While the 'goblins' provide the external conflict, the internal heart of the book lies in Mario's determination to uncover the truth even when he feels isolated. It is a fast-paced, accessible read that respects a child's intelligence while delivering the signature R.L. Stine twists. It is ideal for middle-grade readers who want a 'scary' book that remains grounded in adventure and doesn't lean into trauma or heavy emotional weight.
