The Grumpy Ghost Upstairs

Reviews / Votes

'An instant story time classic. It has all the hallmarks of a great group read.'
-- BookPage, Starred Review

'Shiotani's illustrations are the real standouts here. The little ghost's depiction is particularly delightful -- rather like an updated Casper, but with tiny legs and arms. This unusual portrayal, appendages and all, is just one element of the subtle visual humor that readers will enjoy as they pore over the setting and take in the characters' interactions. The muted, dark palette allows the whiteness of the little ghost to pop and results in a cozy, rather than frightening, tone. Nothing to boo here, and much to enjoy.'
-- Kirkus Reviews

'A bravely curious child's persistence helps a solitary spirit find connection in Shiotani's softly told story about overcoming fear. Meticulous hand-drawn illustrations stick to a palette of grays, with spot pastel coloring suggesting the gradual brightening of the shade's mood and world.'
-- Publishers Weekly

'This book is perfect for year-round use... The idea of maintaining one's identity WHILE making new friends is a lovely, nuanced theme for helping kids build healthy relationships. There's a sense of sweetness, without being saccharine, and playfulness, and the message is thoughtful without being didactic. Just an all-around lovely book that is perfect for home and classroom libraries!'
-- Read, Teach, Write

'What truly sets this book apart are the charcoal illustrations... making the attic setting and characters come alive. A heartwarming book with exquisite illustrations that young readers will adore.'
-- Sara Perrera, YA Books Central

'This sweet book speaks to introverts of all ages, honoring the desire for solitude, while opening the door to the power of friendships. The beautiful, subtle artwork has the appearance of pencil shading, capturing the look of moody moonlight and the transparent ghost.'
-- Youth Services Book Review

'A sweet, gentle story that should warm young hearts.'
-- Puget Sound Council Reviews

'A delightful story about coming out of your comfort zone but [with] a few twists to keep it fresh and interesting.'
-- Northshire Bookstore (US Indie Bookstore)

'I've never related to a ghost more in my life. What a gem of a book, what a perfect and silly character!'
-- Shelby Baseler, The Novel Neighbor (US Indie Bookstore)

'This is just the sweetest and silliest story. The illustrations and storytelling are so nostalgic. I can see this book being to the next generation what The Snowman was to mine.'
-- Sydney Fancher, Charter Books (US Indie Bookstore)

'A sweet story about friendship in unlikely places, this is a fun storytime selection.'
-- Mom Read It

'Looks at solitude and friendship, with a sweet and spooky edge.'
-- BookRiot

'A beautifully illustrated book about new friendships.'
-- Growing Book by Book (Instagram)

'Told alongside hazy, dreamlike charcoal-pencil illustrations, this is the sweet story of an unlikely friendship and learning to face our fears.'
-- Kids Read the World (Instagram)

'The sweetest book about unexpected friendships, this ghost book is the best addition to our spooktacular collection!'
-- Books Grow Minds (Instagram)

'The perfect spooky-but-sweet read for little ones! The soft, whimsical illustrations make this book an absolute pleasure to read.'
-- Read With a Rescue (Instagram)

'I love the story and illustrations in this book. It's so sweet and tender, showing that even grumpy souls can be softened by a kind friend.'
-- Three Little Loves Library (Instagram)

'What an adorable surprise this book was! It's just the right amount of spooky for little readers, more heartwarming than haunting. A perfect pick for fall storytimes or classroom read-alouds. I loved everything about this sweet ghost story!'
-- Mrs H in the Library (Instagram)