Figgs & Phantoms

A really odd book [in a good way]. However, I think the targetted age group should be somewhat older then 12-13 as children in this age bracket may not "get" the message this book conveys.

Mona Lisa Newton is feeling rather depressed lately. Her family consists of, among others, Uncle Truman Figg, the human-pretzel-turned-sign-painter who always makes exactly one mistake on his signs; Uncle Florence Figg, who later coincidentally added the middle name Italy; Newton ("Newt") Newton, the used car dealer; Sister Figg, baton twirler and tap dancer, named by being raised by one older brother; Gracie Jo, the dog catcher, and her son, Fido Figg the Second (the first was a dog). Mona finds she only feels close to Uncle Flo, a book dealer. After hinting that he may have to leave soon for "Capri" - apparently the heaven for Figg-Newton family members, Mona knows she must unravel the mystery surrounding the place. --Packed with tons of clever wordplays, subtle mystery clues, and funny moments (especially all of Uncle Truman's signs!) this is one book not to miss!! --MarisaThis is an intiguing, funny, and very nicely woven story.

After reading The Westing Game, I wanted more. When i read this book i was surprised. At first i thought i would not like it, but i loved it. It is now one of my favorites. Figgs & Phantoms is about a girl, Mona, with a very interesting family. She does not enjoy having such an odd family. Her uncle is the only reletive that she really cares about. I do not want to ruin the ending, but it is great. The entire book comes together beautifully. I recommend it to anyone who wants to read a good book.

Figgs and Phantoms is about a girl, Mona, who had a very strange family and didn't like it. But, she was very close to her Uncle Florence. When her Uncle died she was very sad. Mona decided to go to Capri where her Uncle was. Capri is the Figgs' heaven. Mona had to learn that things are not always the way you think they're going to be. You should read it! Efrem Carlin 5th grader

I love Ellen Raskin. Like many readers, I searched out this book because of my deep attachment to The Westing Game. Figgs & Phantoms turns out to be something quite different, a moving (and, at times, unsettling) comic fantasy. But I'm *so* glad I read it. F & P is more effective than most adult novels in exploring what it means to belong; to find your path in life; to be a success; and to die. It's really unlike anything else I've read.One caveat: I first read this book as an adult, and I have no idea how kids respond to it. For a wonderful Ellen Raskin book closer in feel to the Westing Game, definitely look for a copy of the out-of-print classic "The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues." [Barring that, "The Mysterious Disappearance of Leon (I Mean Noel)" is a good choice.]