Families who loved The Demon Notebook by Erika McGann 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 middle-grade reader is seeking the thrill of a scary story but still needs the grounding comfort of a strong friendship group. It is particularly effective for children who are beginning to navigate the complexities of peer influence and the realization that actions, even those born of simple curiosity, carry weight and consequences. The story follows five best friends whose attempts at magic go from harmless fun to genuine peril when they experiment with a Ouija board. As their notebook of spells takes on a dark life of its own, the girls must transition from playful observers to brave problem-solvers. This is a secular, supernatural adventure that uses spooky elements to explore themes of shared guilt and the importance of group loyalty when things go wrong. It is perfect for ages 9 to 12, offering a safe space to explore fear within a supportive social context.