The Girl and the Ghost by Jacqueline Harvey

Josephine, or Jet to her family and friends, has just moved along with her family, and beloved dog, to a small village in the French countryside to a run-down chateau, that they plan to renovate and turn into a wonderful place to stay. All is going well, until Josephine finds a locket, and upon opening the locket, releases a ghost of a 18th century boy. Both are shocked to find themselves in the predicament – Josephine to have a ghost in her room, Louis to find himself a ghost! After many disagreements, with Josephine able to lock Louis away whenever she sees fit, the two finally come to an understanding and learn to tolerate each other – and to learn more about each other’s lives. Meanwhile, Josephine is adjusting to life in France, and having to hide the fact that her new companion is a 18th-century royal!

Jacqueline Harvey has written an interesting story here with likeable characters that readers will relate to, and an easy to follow plot. Real history is included, with some creative license taken as well. A historical facts section is included at the end of the book for those interested in learning more, while a map of the village is included at the beginning of the book. Great for fans of her other work such as Kensy and Max.

Themes: Mystery, Adventure, Historical, Relationships, Ghosts, International move.

Melanie Pages