Steinbeck's Ghost

Steinbeck's Ghost is an amazing combinaion of beautiful writing that is fun to read. As an adult, it made me want to go back to Steinbeck, re-read old favorites and read the ones I've missed. It is a book for many ages, but I think it would be ideal for middle-schoolers/early teens who may have read their first Steinbeck and could relate well with the central character, a boy navigating the teen years, trying to figure out how to deal with his changing relationship with his parents, the role of mentors in his life, and just finding his own way in the world, all through solving a mystery and saving a library. Wow, truly a must read.

I am a great Harry Potter fan and I am picky about my books and this one shot through the roof of my expectations. Travis is someone I can really relate to because he loves books and wants to save a Library (which is awesome). I wanted to go to Salinas right away after I read the book and see Steinbeck's house. I had read a Wrinkle in Time (a great book) and want to read some of the other books mentioned. One of my favorite characters was Oster because he was a writer also and he helped Travis along the way. I loved the book and hope it turns into a series.

I'm an adult. Yep. Still, I love to read children's books and this one is terrific! The plot revolves around Travis's love of the library, and some unexplainable apparitions. Filled with kid-talk and adventure, and accented with the history of the Monterey Peninsula and the Salinas area,this is one fun adventure book. Well done, Mr. Buzbee!

Lewis Buzbee has proven his love of books in his acclaimed THE YELLOW-LIGHTED BOOKSHOP, and his talent as a craftsman of fiction with AFTER THE GOLD RUSH. Now, Buzbee adds another element to his accomplishments as an author with STEINBECK'S GHOST, a kids' book on the surface that holds so much within its pages for readers who, like Buzbee, love great books. Weaving so many great references to Steinbeck's work and his favored California locales through a catchy mystery tale, STEINBECK'S GHOST is sure to appeal to young readers, and, more importantly, inspire them to read more great fiction. A great book for readers from middle school on up... librarians and teachers are going to absolutely love STEINBECK'S GHOST.