Families who loved Phantoms Don't Drive Sports Cars by Debbie Dadey 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 transitioning into chapter books and craves a bit of spooky excitement without the nightmares. It is an ideal pick for the young investigator who is constantly asking 'what if?' or for a child who needs to see the value of working with friends to solve a problem. The story follows the Bailey School Kids as they encounter a mysterious new neighbor who drives a flashy car and may or may not be a ghost. This classic 1990s mystery balances humor and mild suspense, making it approachable for emerging readers. While it touches on themes of bravery and skepticism, it remains lighthearted and grounded in a familiar school setting. Parents will appreciate how it encourages critical thinking and observation, all while providing a fast-paced, entertaining mystery that builds reading confidence in the 7 to 10 age range.