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264
Novel • Fiction
West Virginia • Contemporary
2015
YA
10-14 years
690L
In Mary Downing Hahn's middle grade horror novel, Took: A Ghost Story, seventh grader Daniel moves to a rural town in West Virginia and learns about eerie folklore surrounding the woods. When his sister Erica disappears, Daniel embarks on a harrowing journey to rescue her from Old Auntie, a witch who abducts children. The narrative delves into themes of family, isolation, and courage as Daniel confronts mystical and terrifying forces to save Erica. The novel includes depictions of physical and emotional abuse.
Mysterious
Unnerving
Dark
Suspenseful
Emotional
12,596 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mary Downing Hahn's Took captivates readers with its eerie atmosphere and compelling storytelling. Positive reviews highlight the engaging characters and suspenseful plot that maintains a frightful yet intriguing tone. However, some critiques mention predictable elements and a lackluster resolution. Overall, Took is praised for its chilling appeal, suitable for middle-grade audiences.
Readers captivated by eerie, atmospheric tales with a historical twist will relish Took by Mary Downing Hahn. This novel appeals to fans of R.L. Stine's Goosebumps series and Neil Gaiman's Coraline, blending suspense with a spine-chilling narrative perfect for middle-grade enthusiasts of horror and supernatural mysteries.
12,596 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Erica
Daniel's younger sister who struggles to adapt to the family's new circumstances and becomes increasingly attached to her doll, experiencing mysterious and unsettling events.
Selene
A mysterious figure tied to local folklore, whose past becomes entwined with the present events affecting Daniel and Erica's family.
Old Auntie and Bloody Bones
The legendary antagonist said to be a conjure woman and her fierce creature, representing eerie and malevolent forces in the story.
Mother and Father (Daniel and Erica's Parents)
The parents whose ambition for a fresh start leads to unexpected strain and conflict within the family as they cope with their new reality.
Brody Mason
A local boy living near Daniel and Erica who introduces them to the local legends and becomes an unexpected ally.
The O’Neills
An elderly couple who build a friendship with Daniel and Erica's family, offering support and drawing on their past connections to the local lore.
Miss Perkins
An elderly woman in the community who possesses a unique understanding of the local legends and provides critical guidance.
264
Novel • Fiction
West Virginia • Contemporary
2015
YA
10-14 years
690L
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