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Ghost Book by Remy Lai
4.0
adventurous emotional hopeful medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

July Chen can see ghosts. However, according to her dad, ghosts aren't real. So she just pretends she can't see them and goes on with her day. But when it's Hungry Ghosts Month and the Gates of the Underworld are open, that's much harder to do. When July saves a boy from being consumed by a Hungry Ghost, they become friends. Little do they know, their fates have been intertwined since their births.

Thanks to Henry Holt and NetGalley for an advanced copy of Ghost Book by Remy Lai to review! I've read a few of Remy Lai's other books, and they're always a delight. And this one is no different! A little more spooky than her other books, I loved the folklore and the culture that was infused in this book from the beginning. Fans of Spirited Away will definitely love this graphic novel, full of ghosts, dumplings, magic, and friendship.

The art was fantastic, fully creating this underworld and July's world as well. The overall tone fits perfectly for a middle grade audience. especially with July's relationship with her father. He wants so badly to keep her safe that he really distances himself from her. Their evolving relationship was so heartwarming, as well as her friendship with William. The emphasis on friendship was perfect, as are their adventures to get there.

Kids will absolutely love this graphic novel when it comes out in August!

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