Misadventures in Ghost Hunting

Emma Wong has the dubious gift of being able to see or sense ghosts. One ghost, Henry, is particularly hostile toward Emma, setting fire to the family altar and tormenting her at every opportunity. Another, Leon, who takes the form of a pigeon, is more caring, explaining the Wong family history and teaching Emma Chinese calligraphy in order to defend herself. Only as the story progresses does Emma understand that the ghosts’ missions are to redress wrongs committed by her ancestors. The fate of her family is in her hands, but Emma is out of her depth. She cannot confide in her family and has no knowledge to combat the strong magic of the ghosts who emanate from the underworld. Her only ally seems to be her friend Michelle, but, then again, is Michelle really a friend?

Misadventures in Ghost Hunting is a mixed read containing much that is worthwhile but with some areas of confusion. It is a page turner with an ingenious and unique plot full of action. Much of this action involves battles with a variety of different types of ghosts from the underworld in various settings. The sheer number of these make the plot hard to keep up with and are often repetitive, the purpose of the battles becoming obscured in the process. Also the frequent inclusion of Chinese expressions might suggest the need for a glossary.

On the other hand, the book provides an intriguing background to life and customs in a Chinese Canadian family, and Emma, is a true heroine. She speaks her own story in her own voice, coming across as a heroic young woman, facing her fears and self doubt in order to save her family. There is subtlety in other characters, such as the ghost of the unpleasant Henry who has levels of complexity not initially evident and Michelle, Emma’s best friend, who turns out to be something far removed from the impression she gives. Leon is a fully sympathetic character, trying to right the wrongs of the past And then there is Grandma who understands everything and, despite her sweet appearance and love of plants, turns out to be the most heroic and powerful of all in dealing with characters from the underworld.

Combining subtle humour with a fast paced read in an unusual setting, good characterization and a satisfying conclusion, Misadventures in Ghost Hunting will appeal to children who enjoy adventure and ghost stories.