Extra Normal

A tween who believes she is “nothing special” investigates strange occurrences on her street in this creepy supernatural thriller by Marshall (Glassheart). Though her adoptive siblings are a ghost, a boy with telekinesis, and a Deaf werewolf, 12-year-old Charlie Greer—the biological daughter of renowned paranormal investigators—exhibits no unique abilities of her own. As such, Charlie maintains household safety measures, an important job in a family comprising beings with volatile powers. Charlie is uneasy around the Weaver family, a smiley couple and their son who move to the neighborhood the same day her exhausted parents leave for vacation. Determined to uncover the Weavers’ secrets, she enlists her siblings and the family’s pseudo-pet, a possessed doll that resembles a housecat. But when no one shares her distrust of the newcomers, Charlie begins to suspect that mind-control may be at play and engages in increasingly risky espionage. Touching sibling dynamics add warmth to this keenly plotted nail-biter, which boasts appropriately atmospheric prose and thrills and chills that draw on classic horror movie elements. Charlie cues as white; supporting characters are described as having varied skin tones. Ages 8–12. Agent: Lauren Spieller, Folio Literary Management. (Aug.)