About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is navigating the tricky balance between growing responsibilities and the desire for independence during the summer break. It is an ideal pick for readers who feel like outsiders or who are struggling to find their place within a new family dynamic. The story follows Suze Simon, a sixteen year old who can see and speak to ghosts, as she takes a babysitting job for a young boy who shares her rare supernatural gift. While the plot is driven by paranormal mystery and lighthearted romance, the emotional core focuses on mentorship and self-acceptance. Suze must move from resentment about her summer job to a sense of duty as she protects her young charge from restless spirits. Parents will appreciate the way the book handles the weight of secrets and the importance of using one's unique talents to help others. It is a fast paced, humorous read that balances supernatural thrills with the relatable awkwardness of teenage crushes and family transitions.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
1. DISTRESS: There are scenes involving a vengeful female ghost who attempts to harm the children, which include moments of physical peril and supernatural atmosphere that might be unsettling for sensitive readers. The backstory of the ghost involves her being murdered by her husband, who pushed her off a balcony. 2. CONVERSATION: Parents should be prepared to discuss the concept of healthy vs. manipulative relationships, particularly regarding Paul's behavior toward Suze, which can be possessive and deceptive.
Ideal Reader
A thirteen year old who enjoys fast talking, snarky protagonists and wants a supernatural mystery that does not feel too heavy or academic.
Parent Prep
Read Chapter 12, where the ghost attempts to drown Jack in the resort pool, to see if the level of peril is too intense for your child. The depiction of a young child, Jack, in physical danger as he is targeted and physically attacked by a malevolent spirit.
Age Experience
Younger readers (12) will focus on the cool factor of seeing ghosts and the physical action. Older readers (15+) will pick up on the romantic tension and the complexities of Suze's double life.
What Makes It Special
Meg Cabot brings her signature Princess Diaries humor to the paranormal genre, making the 'chosen one' trope feel modern, grounded, and genuinely funny.
Read plot summary
Suze Simon, a mediator who can see and communicate with the dead, takes a summer job babysitting eight year old Jack at a luxury resort. She quickly discovers that Jack is also a mediator, though he is untrained and terrified. As Suze tries to mentor Jack, they are haunted by the vengeful spirit of a woman who died at the resort. Amidst the ghost hunting, Suze navigates her attraction to Jack's older brother, Paul, and her ongoing relationship with Jesse, the ghost living in her bedroom.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Suze initially resents her babysitting job. How does her attitude change once she realizes Jack shares her gift?
2
Jack is scared of his abilities. What advice does Suze give him, and how does it help him gain confidence?
3
Paul seems charming but has a hidden agenda. What were some early signs that he might not be trustworthy?
4
Suze often keeps her mediator identity a secret. Do you think this makes her life harder or easier? When is it okay to keep secrets from family?
