Parents' Guide to

Texting the Underworld

By Darienne Stewart, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 10+

Thoughtful, funny ghost story has haunting effect.

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What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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Is It Any Good?

Our review:
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Kids say: Not yet rated
TEXTING THE UNDERWORLD at first seems like just another ghost story, but its relatable characters and good humor quickly sneak up on you. Author Ellen Booraem sets her story in Boston's traditionally Irish Southie neighborhood, a fitting backdrop for the Old World-New World and intergenerational conflicts in the O'Neill family. Conor's mischievous, not-especially-responsible grandfather is a gem. Conor emerges as an everyday hero, rising to do the right thing in the hour of need. There are no easy choices in this tale, much as in real life.
Booraem borrows elements from several ancient religions to stitch together a unique view of death and reincarnation. It's fascinating to contemplate and an interesting jumping-off point for further exploration of how different cultures view the end -- and beginning -- of life.

Book Details

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