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The Screaming Staircase

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2013

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Book Brief

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Jonathan Stroud

The Screaming Staircase

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2013
Book Details
Pages

381

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London • Alternate Present

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

720L

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Super Short Summary

In The Screaming Staircase, Lucy Carlyle joins Anthony Lockwood and George Cubbins in their ghost-hunting agency, Lockwood & Co., in a ghost-infested, quasi-post-apocalyptic London. They investigate a haunted mansion with a dangerous reputation, uncover a sinister plot linked to a past murder, and use their unique abilities to navigate the perilous supernatural world.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

4.4

71,926 ratings

85%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jonathan Stroud’s The Screaming Staircase captivates with its atmospheric setting and well-crafted, eerie plot. Readers praise the engaging characters and thrilling adventure, though some find the pacing uneven. Ideal for fans of supernatural mysteries, this book blends humor and suspense effectively, making it a compelling read despite minor flaws.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Screaming Staircase?

Fans of thrilling, supernatural adventures like Harry Potter and Lockwood & Co. will enjoy The Screaming Staircase by Jonathan Stroud. This reader appreciates well-crafted ghost stories, clever protagonists, and a touch of humor. Ideal for those who love intricate plots and atmospheric settings.

4.4

71,926 ratings

85%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Lucy Carlyle

The protagonist and narrator who joins Lockwood & Co. for her unique ability to hear and feel spirits, bringing a focus on uncovering the origins of hauntings. Her dedication and emotional connection to the ghosts she encounters drive much of the narrative.

The deuteragonist and founder of Lockwood & Co., known for his ability to see death-glows and his charismatic, daring nature. He leads the agency with a mix of humor, optimism, and strategic cunning in pursuit of solving supernatural mysteries.

An original member of Lockwood & Co., initially perceived as abrasive but vital for his research skills and attention to detail. His evolving role as an active participant in the team's ghost-hunting efforts highlights his growth and importance to the agency’s success.

The wealthy owner of Fairfax Iron, whose involvement with the agency marks him as a figure of intrigue. His eccentricity and initial intentions create tension as Lockwood & Co. navigate the challenges he presents.

A DEPRAC agent whose skeptical view of the youthful agency creates friction. He serves as both a critic and a reluctant ally, monitoring Lockwood & Co.'s activities with a mix of authority and begrudging respect.

A former lover of Annabel Ward, whose enigmatic presence and past connection to the haunting are sources of suspicion. His character adds layers of mystery to the unfolding investigation.

Book Details
Pages

381

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London • Alternate Present

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

720L

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