The Ghost Belonged to Me

The Ghost Belonged to Me follows thirteen-year-old Alexander Armsworth in 1913 Illinois after he discovers he can see ghosts. His life changes when he encounters the spirit of a young girl in his family's barn, who warns him about an upcoming disaster. Alexander's connection to the supernatural brings him into contact with Blossom Culp, a local girl who understands his ghostly abilities. Together with Alexander's great-uncle Miles, they uncover the story of Inez Dumaine, the ghost in the barn who died far from her New Orleans home. The narrative centers on Alexander's quest to return Inez's remains to her final resting place in New Orleans. His journey transforms from a local story of heroism into an adventure that stretches across state lines. The book explores themes of friendship, duty, and the connections that exist between the living and the dead. Peck's story demonstrates how the past can reach into the present, creating bonds across time and distance.

Readers frequently describe this middle-grade ghost story as humorous and engaging while maintaining an authentic historical atmosphere of 1913 Illinois. The book resonates with both young readers and adults. Likes: - Character development, especially Alexander's growth - Balance of supernatural elements with historical details - Blend of humor and serious themes - Engaging narrative voice - Appeals across age groups Dislikes: - Some find the pacing slow in the first few chapters - Period-specific language can be challenging for younger readers - A few readers note the plot becomes predictable Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (90+ ratings) Common reader comments point to the book as an effective introduction to historical fiction for middle schoolers. Multiple teachers mention using it successfully in their classrooms, with one noting: "My students connect with Alexander immediately and the ghost story keeps them interested while they learn about the time period."

Wait Till Helen Comes by Mary Downing Hahn A girl moves to a haunted house and discovers her stepsister's ghost friend harbors dark intentions.

The House With a Clock in Its Walls by John Bellairs A young orphan moves in with his uncle in a house filled with supernatural secrets and must stop a clock that could bring about the end of the world.

Time Windows by Kathryn Reiss A thirteen-year-old girl uses a dollhouse to witness past events in her new home and uncovers a century-old tragedy she must prevent from repeating.

Behind the Attic Wall by Sylvia Cassedy A troubled girl sent to live with elderly aunts discovers living porcelain dolls in a hidden room who help her understand her place in the world.

Ghosts I Have Been by Richard Peck A teenage girl discovers she can communicate with spirits and becomes entangled in preventing a disaster on the Titanic.

🌟 The book was published in 1975 and won the prestigious Mark Twain Award in 1977, solidifying its place in children's literature. 🏛️ The setting of Bluff City is based on Decatur, Illinois, where author Richard Peck grew up, lending authentic historical details to the story. 👻 This book is the first in a series of four interconnected ghost stories featuring Blossom Culp, who becomes the main character in subsequent novels. 🎬 The novel was adapted into a television movie titled "Child of Glass" by Disney in 1978, featuring a modified version of the original story. ✍️ Richard Peck wrote over 40 books during his career and was awarded the Newbery Medal in 2001 for "A Year Down Yonder," showcasing his mastery of historical fiction for young readers.