Title: Ruby Clair: A Ghost At School
Author: Mary K. Pershall
Publisher: Puffin, $14.95 RRP
Publication Date: June 2010
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780143304302
For ages: 8 - 12
Type: Novel
About: The story begins with Ruby receiving the news that the ghost of her cousin, Nicola, will be leaving her life. She’s devastated at the prospect of losing her for the second time, but soon she won’t have time to think about it all.
Seen as someone who can help other ghosts, Ruby is assigned to the mysterious Lily, who inconveniently finds her at school.
All sorts of trouble ensues, with Lily following Ruby around school, talking to her through classes, taking things that Ruby must take the blame for and causing chaos throughout her life.
Meanwhile, Ruby’s mother and grandmother are trying to figure out what is going on in Ruby’s head to be getting into so much trouble all of a sudden. And her friends are disgusted with her behaviour and the way she’s treating them.
On top of it all, Ruby must help this ghost find out who she is.
This is a story full of mystery and intrigue, an original concept that creates a lot of discussion about life after death, including life for those whose loved ones have passed on.
Written in a style that’s easy to read, in a setting that’s relatable and familiar to kids, this story has a lot of appeal.
The third in the Ruby Clair series, it can also be read as a stand-alone novel.
This book is available online
