The Awakening

In this first book in the Ghost Huntress series, a move from downtown Chicago to small-town Radisson, Ga., brings about a psychic awakening for 16-year old Kendall, as spirits that roam her house and town recognize her ability to see them and clamor for her attention. Initially seeking rational explanations for these unsettling experiences, Kendall gradually accepts her psychic powers as a divine gift, believing God has called her to free trapped spirits. Honing her skills under the guidance of Loreen, who runs a New Age store in town, Kendall assembles an eclectic ghost-hunting team: Celia, the brainy techno-wizard; preppy photographer Taylor; and punk Becca, sound analyst. Obstacles arise when Kendall's loving, fundamentalist mother, who equates paranormal activity with devil worship, worries about Kendall's mental and spiritual health; later, Kendall's budding romance with Taylor's sexy brother threatens the girls' unity. Kendall's witty narrative voice (she quotes Shakespeare and Ugly Betty with equal aplomb) drives this fast-paced, wholesome-with-an-edge tale. Several unsolved mysteries will leave readers eager for the next installment. Ages 12-up.