Ghost Queen

December 1, 2024

Gr 6 Up-A haunted house streamer encounters a real ghost. A high school boy angers a super-sentient AI. Another young man falls in with a bad crowd. Two neurodivergent brothers must survive in a terrible storm. All these stories are modern and relevant, with some, obviously, being more realistic than others, but an important kernel of truth lies at the heart of all these stories, even the sci-fi and fantasy ones. The writing is high-quality across the board: believable dialogue, layered characters, and fast-moving plots. However, made-up video games and social media sites like "Outlaw Auto" and "VidVibe" feel corny and misplaced. Some of the books tackle heavy themes like racial profiling, gang violence, economic struggles, foster care, mental health. Some of the stories even have abrupt or depressing endings, no tidy resolutions, just like real life. VERDICT Just Kickin' It, despite having the worst title of the bunch, is the standout story. All have appeal.

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 15, 2024
Influencers Malika and her boyfriend, Veer, face a curse at "the most haunted place in India": Bhangarh Fort in Rajasthan. Delhi-based Malika feels the pressure of providing for her family and pursuing her dreams of studying abroad. She seeks financial freedom through the popular online channel, "Ghost Queen," she runs with Veer. Their following has grown, but she needs a bigger hook if she hopes to meet her financial goals. She pushes Veer to accompany her to film at Bhangarh Fort, famous for a centuries-old curse placed on Rani, a princess who rejected the advances of a magician called Singhya. Veer, who adores Malika, agrees to accompany her, although he has doubts when they arrive to find a storm brewing, and Malika insists on hiding from the ticket collector at closing time. The two film their progress as they head toward Rani's chamber, which is guarded by rabid dogs. An ominous whisper and strange shadow warn them away. Eventually the two are confronted by the terrifying spirits of Rani and Singhya and must find a way to escape before it's too late. This high-interest novel printed in a dyslexia-friendly font offers plenty of creepy thrills. Narsimhan skillfully balances a fast-paced plot with thoroughly dark, emotionally charged scenes. The connection to an actual legend and site in India enriches the story and heightens the fear factor. An entertaining ghostly romp that will draw in reluctant readers.(Supernatural. 12-18)

COPYRIGHT(2024) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

January 1, 2025
Grades 7-12 Is putting yourself in danger of being possessed by ancient Indian queens the new viral online trend? Malika hopes so--she knows that in order to help her financially struggling family, she needs to monetize her VidVibe channel; exploring the haunted Bhangarh Fort on a dark and stormy night with her boyfriend, Veer, might be the break she needs. Veer's reticence and the warning of the fort's guard prove to be right as the two teens quickly realize they're not alone when their adventure takes a sharp turn. This high/low novel successfully offers a premise that will appeal to teens who prefer to spend their time on social media, combining an influencer protagonist with the pacing and resolution of popular short-form creepypasta content. The formatting allows for easy use of reading aids, and while some of the Indian names may provide an initial challenge to English-only readers, the dyslexic-friendly font will alleviate it to some extent. Ultimately, the folklore-esque nature of this snappy read makes it both fun and accessible.

COPYRIGHT(2025) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.