About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the internal weight of a secret or the lingering guilt of a small mistake. It is an ideal choice for middle schoolers who feel like they are 'haunted' by past choices or are navigating the isolation of a new environment after a family loss. Set in the late 1800s, the story follows Judith, an orphan who moves in with her uncle under one strict condition: she must not bring anything green into his house. When she secretly keeps a small green picture frame, she begins to experience chilling supernatural occurrences that mirror her own internal shame. Parents will appreciate how the ghost story serves as a tangible metaphor for the way secrets can isolate us from the people who want to care for us. While it is a classic spooky mystery, the heart of the book is about the courage it takes to be honest and the relief found in accountability. It is appropriate for ages 10 to 14, offering a safe space to explore fear and integrity.
