From the publisher, “Against the ominous backdrop of the influenza epidemic of 1918, Annie, a new girl at school, is claimed as best friend by Elsie, a classmate who is a tattletale, a liar, and a thief. Soon Annie makes other friends and finds herself joining them in teasing and tormenting Elsie. Elsie dies from influenza, but then she returns to reclaim Annie’s friendship and punish all the girls who bullied her.”

Another excellent book from Mary Downing Hahn.  She is one of the go-to authors for middle grade students.  Quickly engaging with a character introduction, then right to the haunting!  Annie was stuck.  She wanted to be a good friend, but Elsie was too unpleasant and downright not nice.  Annie certainly did not deserve to be haunted.  I enjoyed the historical tone of the book that captures how society dealt with the deadly influenza epidemic and the devastating impact on families.  A good solid ghost story for middle school!

eGalley review                                                         Publication date 7.11.17