Lockett and Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts of the Manor

Matilda Lockett has what some might consider an unusual life. Whilst her aunt performs as Signora Valentina, a professional spirit medium, Matilda plays the part of Poor Dead Edna, convincing audiences of her aunt’s abilities. However, when her aunt is asked to visit Beauchamp Manor and rid it of the ghost which is haunting it, Matilda discovers that she really can see ghosts and soon becomes friends with Edgar Wilde, a ghost boy. Working together, they are able to solve the very real mystery of what is actually happening at the manor.

With Lucy Strange writing excellent stories and Pam Smy creating the most fabulous pictures, ‘The Ghosts at the Manor’ was sure to be a book which I would enjoy- and I loved it! The story offers an engaging mystery with a slightly spooky twist and lots of friendship, making it a wonderful read. Matilda and Edgar are lovely characters, who show what teamwork can do and whose partnership is sure to offer plenty more satisfying adventures to come. There are twists and secrets, ghosts and jewels, fakes and fortunes in this story, but at it’s heart is Matilda’s warm relationship with her aunt and ‘Uncle’ Barnabus and her new found friendship with Edgar.

The joy of the story is perfectly captured by Pam Smy’s lovely illustrations. These black and white images with touches of blue add a slightly eerie atmosphere, perfectly in keeping with the gently spooky nature of the story. Children are going to love reading about Matilda and Edgar and will clamour for more!

Lockett and Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts at the Manor

Lucy Strange and Pam Smy

Walker ISBN: 978-1529516005