Select one of the keywords
ParaNorman    by Elizabeth Cody Kimmel Amazon.com order for
ParaNorman
by Elizabeth Cody Kimmel
Order:  USA  Can
Little, Brown & Co., 2013 (2012)
Hardcover, Softcover, e-Book
* *   Reviewed by Ricki Marking-Camuto

If you are a middle-grader looking for a fun Halloween read, check out Elizabeth Cody Kimmel's ParaNorman. This entertaining story is based on the movie and offers up just the right amount of chills.

Norman Babcock can speak to ghosts, which makes him very much an outcast at school and even at home. However, on the night of the 300th anniversary of the trial of the Blithe Hollow witch, the whole town will learn how valuable Norman is. See, the witch placed a curse on her judge and jury, and after 300 years, she is still mad. The judge and jury will get up and walk and the witch will create a storm like nothing Blithe Hollow has ever seen before. Only Norman has the power to stop her.

This was a very cute read and moves at a fast pace to keep middle grade readers engaged. However, there are a few instances of head-hopping, which is never acceptable no matter what the audience. But, knowing her audience, Kimmel includes many valuable lessons presented in such a way that young readers can draw their own conclusions.

ParaNorman is rather a fluffy read, but it is great for a chilly fall night. Middle grade readers will enjoy Elizabeth Cody Kimmel's writing.

Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons.

Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews