The Fall of the House of Tatterly

A Black 12-year-old must take on an evil supernatural entity to save his family in this adrenaline-fueled tale by Miles (For All Time). Theo Tatterly, who has always been able to see and talk to ghosts, lives with his similarly gifted aunts and cousins in an old mansion in Charleston, S.C. Because of his abilities, he is constantly surrounded by ghosts asking for his help in crossing over to the other side. This unending supernatural chatter makes him feel as if he has no time to cultivate relationships with the living, resulting in much time alone and few friendships, save for his bond with cousin Issa. When a malevolent presence interrupts his exorcising a spirit, Theo learns that the sinister specter intends to come after his family. To protect them, Theo must bring together everyone he knows—living and dead—to fight back. Though a somewhat complicated and occasionally inconsistent magic system can sometimes befuddle, over-the-top fantastical ambiance, paired with rich depictions of Charleston’s historical and cultural lore, makes for an endearing, enchanting adventure teeming with quirky characters. Ages 8–12. (Oct.)