63 pages • 2 hours read
The Old Willis Place: A Ghost Story
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Book Brief
199
Novel • Fiction
Maryland Countryside • Contemporary
2004
YA
10-14 years
630L
Super Short Summary
The Old Willis Place by Mary Downing Hahn follows siblings Diana and Georgie, who secretly live on the grounds of an old, abandoned mansion. When new caretakers move in nearby, Diana yearns for friendship and interacts with the landlord's daughter, Lissa, leading to a series of events that uncover tragic pasts, ghostly hauntings, and themes of forgiveness and healing.
Mysterious
Unnerving
Dark
Melancholic
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
11,350 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Mary Downing Hahn's The Old Willis Place is praised for its engaging atmosphere and gripping mystery, which effectively blend elements of horror and historical fiction. Readers appreciate the well-developed characters and suspenseful plot. However, some critique the pacing and desire more complex resolutions. Overall, it's a compelling read for young audiences.
Who Should Read The Old Willis Place?
Readers who enjoy the eerie mysteries of The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman or the haunting elements of Coraline will be captivated by Mary Downing Hahn's The Old Willis Place. This book is perfect for young adults who love ghost stories intertwined with themes of friendship and overcoming past traumas.
11,350 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Georgie
Georgie
Diana's 8-year-old brother known for his pranks and cautious nature, who stays close to his sister at Oak Hill Manor.
Lissa Morrison
Lissa Morrison
The 12-year-old daughter of the new caretaker of Oak Hill Manor, who is curious about ghosts and experiences a lonely lifestyle due to frequent moves.
Mr. Morrison
Mr. Morrison
The father of Lissa and the newest caretaker of Oak Hill Manor, a kind writer who does not believe in ghosts.
Miss Lilian Willis
Miss Lilian Willis
A ghost at Oak Hill Manor known in life as a wealthy and cruel former owner who lived a solitary life.
199
Novel • Fiction
Maryland Countryside • Contemporary
2004
YA
10-14 years
630L
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