The Bellwoods Game by Celia Krampien

The Bellwoods Game by Celia Krampien
Publisher:  Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Format read:  Paperback
Number of pages:   320 pages
Published:  July 23rd, 2023
Source:  Purchased

Opening Lines:  "Abigail didn't believe the stories about the woods."

Everyone knows the woods surrounding Fall Hollow are haunted, ever since Abigail Snook wandered in and was never seen again.  Yet, her disappearance hasn't stopped the students of Beckett Elementary from daring to play the Bellwoods Game.  Every Halloween eve, three six graders race to the heart of the woods to ring the bell, ensuring the town's safety for another year.  But those unlucky enough to encounter Abigail's ghost must surrender their most treasured possession.  And if no one wins the race...her spirit is unleashed to wreak havoc on the town.

This year, Bailee hopes to be chosen for the game, especially after the horrible past three weeks she's had, she could really use a win.  She had a falling out with Fen that has left her feeling like an outcast, her parents are buried in work, and her gran recently suffered a TIA.  Maybe winning the race will boost her status at school.  And as the legend goes, the victor wins a wish.  But when the game begins, Bailee, Fen and Carmen quickly realize that reaching the bell is far harder than they imagined.  Something sinister lurks in the woods, watching them, waiting and is determined to ensure that they lose. 

I stumbled on The Bellowoods Game at Barnes and Noble, drawn in by its eerie cover, and after having flipped through the first few pages.  That prologue really sets you up with wanting to know more.  The blurb also promised a gripping mix of supernatural suspense and a game with real risks.  Boy did it deliver.  I loved how the author's illustrations added a creepy vibe, making the story even more immersive.  They really complement the story well.  There's a legend, superstitions, an evil ghost, bats, a shadowy figure in the woods, realistic friend drama and plenty of twists and turns.  Yep, perfectly nailed the eerie mood and kid appeal!  

I hope you'll check out all the other Marvelous Middle-Grade Monday posts at Greg Pattridge's blog HERE