Families who loved Claudia and the Lighthouse Ghost by Ann M. Martin often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is ready to transition into longer mystery novels and needs a story that balances spooky thrills with the comfort of a loyal group of friends. This story follows Claudia and her friends as they trade babysitting duties for a seaside vacation in Maine, only to encounter a local legend involving a haunted lighthouse. It is an excellent choice for navigating the middle school years where social dynamics and individual identities begin to solidify. The book addresses themes of bravery, collaborative problem solving, and the importance of checking in with one's peers during scary situations. It provides a safe, age-appropriate space for 8 to 12 year olds to explore the sensation of being frightened while knowing a logical solution is just around the corner. Parents will appreciate the depiction of the protagonist's artistic nature and her ability to view the world through a creative lens even when things get tense.
