Families who loved The Drum, the Doll, and the Zombie by John Bellairs 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 a spooky thrill that balances high-stakes peril with the grounding safety of a mentor figure and a loyal best friend. It is an ideal pick for children who feel like outsiders or who find comfort in solving mysteries within the safety of a classic, gothic atmosphere. In this installment of the Johnny Dixon series, Johnny and his eccentric friend Professor Childermass encounter a cursed drum, a mysterious doll, and the terrifying threat of the undead in the Caribbean. The story explores deep themes of bravery, the weight of historical curses, and the importance of trusting one's instincts when things feel wrong. While the supernatural elements are genuinely chilling, the core of the book is about the enduring strength of intergenerational friendship and intellectual curiosity. It is best suited for ages 9 to 13, particularly those who enjoy a smart, atmospheric scare without the gore of modern horror.
