The Griffins of Castle Cary

“A beautifully written ghost story filled with mystery and humor. This delightful novel has a fast-paced plot and distinctly drawn characters. It’s a perfect book for middle grade readers.” —The Society of Midland Authors, 2019 Award Winner

A charming, adventure-filled debut novel that’s perfect for fans of The Penderwicks series.

Siblings Meg, Will, and Ariel Griffin are off on an adventure! They can’t wait to spend a week visiting their eccentric aunt and her giant, tongue-drooling Newfoundland dog in England. But when they finally arrive, they’re faced with a few local secrets that stir up more than a little trouble.

Add in some very peculiar lights, strange new friends, a police chase and some stampeding sheep, and the Griffin kids are in over their heads—literally. Apparently this town has a ghost problem and the three children must race to solve the mystery before the ghosts take something that doesn’t belong to them.

“"Well-written, action-packed, and spooky!"”

"The characters are well-rounded and lovable. The novel is fast-paced and easy to follow, with suspenseful scenes that are not too scary and laugh-out-loud funny scenes perfect for young readers who love adventure. Recommended." -- School Library Connection
"This is a suitable spooky story for readers easing their way into the genre; it includes a few age-appropriate jump scares but relies more heavily on the description to create an eerie vibe. [T]he ghostly fun...keeps up the momentum all the way to the conclusion." -- BCCB
“Delightfully spooky! The Griffins of Castle Cary is a masterfully plotted ghost story that creates the perfect blend between heart and humor. Lovable siblings, persistant ghosts, and one ginormous dog will thrill readers late into the night. This book is charming and easy to love. A perfect read for families!” -- Jennifer Lynn Alvarez, author of The Guardian Herd Series
"THE GRIFFINS OF CASTLE CARY is a rollicking mystery about the yearnings to be seen, and the love and empathy required to see. It kept me, like the Griffin children, guessing until the very end. I loved it.” -- Jack Cheng, author of SEE YOU IN THE COSMOS, Golden Kite Award winner
“Nothing can stop the intrepid young Griffins. Secrets, danger, and plenty of humor abound in Shumaker’s clever debut.” -- Gloria Whelan, National Book Award winner of HOMELESS BIRD
“Well-written, action-packed, and spooky!”   -- Melissa Taylor, IMAGINATION SOUP

Heather Shumaker grew up always wanting to be an author. She began writing books in elementary school and is now an award-winning author of several books for adults (It’s OK Not to Share, It’s OK to Go Up the Slide and Saving Arcadia). Heather has tried many jobs including sailing on tall ships, leading llama treks, and recycling at the South Pole, Antarctica, but she likes writing best. Today Heather lives up in northern Michigan with her husband and two children. The Griffins of Castle Cary is her first book for children.

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