Something Upstairs

Kenny Huldorf moves from Los Angeles to Providence, Rhode Island, where he discovers a ghost named Caleb in his new home's attic. The ghost, a murdered slave from the house's past, needs Kenny's help to solve the mystery of his death. Kenny investigates the ghost's murder by researching local history and seeking assistance from a historian named Pardon Willinghast. His quest leads him on a dangerous journey through time as he attempts to uncover the truth about Caleb's death. This historical ghost story combines elements of mystery, friendship, and time travel as Kenny faces difficult choices about loyalty and justice. The novel raises questions about history, racism, and moral responsibility while exploring how the past continues to influence the present.

Readers describe this book as a quick, engaging ghost story that introduces middle-grade students to historical themes around slavery. The paranormal mystery elements keep young readers turning pages. Readers appreciated: - The blend of history and supernatural elements - Kenny's character development - The Rhode Island historical setting - Its accessibility for reluctant readers - The serious treatment of slavery's impact Common criticisms: - Plot feels rushed in places - Some historical details lack depth - The ending leaves questions unanswered - Dialogue can sound unnatural Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (90+ ratings) Common Sense Media: 4/5 One teacher noted: "My students were invested in both the ghost story and learning about slavery in New England." A parent reviewer mentioned: "The book prompted good discussions about history with my 11-year-old." Several reviewers indicated the book works well as a classroom read-aloud for grades 5-7.

The House With a Clock in Its Walls by John Bellairs A young boy moves into his uncle's old mansion and encounters magic, mystery, and a supernatural threat from the house's past.

Ghost Knight by Cornelia Funke A student at a boarding school enlists the help of a medieval ghost to protect him from vengeful spirits targeting his family line.

Time Cat by Lloyd Alexander A boy and his magical cat travel through time to witness historical events and must find their way back home.

The Ghost in the Tokaido Inn by Dorothy Hoobler A merchant's son in feudal Japan works to solve a jewel theft with the assistance of a ghost who haunts the inn.

Behind the Attic Wall by Sylvia Cassedy An orphaned girl discovers living dolls in her aunt's attic and uncovers the truth about her family's mysterious past.

🔹 The book's setting in Providence is historically accurate - the city was a major hub in the trans-Atlantic slave trade during the late 18th century, with over 900 documented slave-trading voyages. 🔹 Author Avi lived in the very house that inspired the story, and like Kenny, he too discovered mysterious marks on the floor of the upstairs room. 🔹 The novel was first published in 1988 and won the South Carolina Children's Book Award in 1991, helping establish Avi's reputation for historical fiction. 🔹 The character of Caleb was inspired by real advertisements from 1790s Providence newspapers about runaway slaves and slave auctions. 🔹 Avi (born Edward Irving Wortis) has written over 70 books under his pen name, which was given to him by his twin sister when they were young children.