Book Review: All the Lovely Bad Ones by Mary Downing Hahn

 


My book review of All The Lovely Bad Ones by Mary Downing Hahn. A captivating ghost story that balances just the right amount of spookiness and mystery for middle-grade readers.

Title: All The Lovely Dan Ones

By: Mary Downing Hahn

Genre: Paranormal

Pages: 192

Release Date: March 18th, 2008

Publisher: Clarion Books

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:

Travis and his sister, Corey, can’t resist a good trick-so when they learn that their grandmother’s sleepy Vermont inn has a history of ghost sightings, they decide to do a little “haunting” of their own. Scaring the guests proves to be great fun, and before long, the inn is filled with tourists and ghost hunters eager for a glimpse of the supernatural.But Travis and Corey soon find out that they aren’t the only ghosts at Fox Hill Inn. Their thoughtless games have awakened something dangerous, something that should have stayed asleep. Restless, spiteful spirits swarm the inn, while a dark and terrifying presence stalks the halls and the old oak grove on the inn’s grounds. To lay the ghosts to rest, Travis and Corey must first discover the dark history of Fox Hill and the horrors visited on its inhabitants years earlier.

 

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Review:

All The Lovely Bad Ones by Mary Downing Hahn is a captivating ghost story that balances just the right amount of spookiness and mystery for middle-grade readers. Known for her knack in weaving eerie tales, Hahn delivers yet another engaging narrative that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.

The story revolves around siblings Travis and Corey who spend their summer at their grandmother’s supposedly haunted inn in Vermont. Always on the lookout for some fun and adventure, they decide to play a prank by pretending to be ghosts. However, their antics awaken real spirits—children who were mistreated long ago—and the siblings find themselves entangled in a chilling mystery that needs to be resolved to put these spirits to rest.

The characters in All The Lovely Bad Ones are well-developed and relatable. Travis and Corey are mischievous but good-hearted kids whose curiosity and bravery drive the plot forward. Their grandmother is a warm, supportive figure, providing a comforting contrast to the unsettling occurrences at the inn. The ghostly children, each with their own backstory, add depth to the narrative and elicit empathy from the readers.

Hahn’s writing is accessible and engaging, perfect for her target audience. She excels at creating a spooky atmosphere without crossing into territory that would be too frightening for younger readers. The pacing is brisk, with just enough suspense to keep readers turning the pages. The author’s ability to blend humor with horror ensures that the story remains enjoyable and not overly intense.

The novel explores themes of courage, redemption, and the importance of family. Travis and Corey’s journey is not just about solving a mystery, but also about understanding the consequences of their actions and taking responsibility. The resolution of the ghostly mystery brings a sense of closure and peace, highlighting the idea that even the mischievous and lost can find redemption.

All The Lovely Bad Ones is a delightful read for young fans of ghost stories. Mary Downing Hahn’s ability to craft a story that is both eerie and heartwarming makes this book stand out in the genre. While it may not offer anything groundbreaking for older readers, it is sure to be a hit with its intended audience, providing just the right mix of chills and charm.

For its engaging storyline, well-rounded characters, and skillful balance of spookiness and warmth, All The Lovely Bad Ones earns a well-deserved four stars. It's a perfect pick for a cozy, spooky night of reading for middle graders and even adults who appreciate a well-told ghost story.

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