Author: Celia Krampien
Reviewed by Chloe Fuksa
Celia Krampien has illustrated numerous children’s books, but The Bellwoods Game is her author debut – and it is an absolutely perfect read for October. Published in July 2023, this spooky middle grade book follows a group of students as they take part in their town’s annual Halloween tradition. The objective of the game is to reach the bell in the middle of the forest before the ghost of Abigail Snook can stop them – or the town becomes cursed with bad luck for a year.
The three contestants are Fen, the popular kid, Carmen, the nerd, and Bailee, the outcast. They think they understand what they’re getting involved in, but what lurks in the forest is beyond any of the stories they’ve heard before. The paths keep changing, and the three must battle against attacking bats, endless spiders, and vicious ropes of algae – all while not falling into the icy river below. Plus, the spirit they are up against is not at all what they thought it was going to be. Only with teamwork, creativity, and bravery can they save themselves and their town.
Complete with a stunning cover and illustrations throughout, The Bellwoods Game is a fabulous book all around. If it is a child’s first dabble with the horror genre, some parts may be a bit too intense. But if a kiddo loves spooky books, loves to be on the edge of their seat, they can surely handle this one. So, this month, while costumes are being planned and candy is getting stocked up, kiddos can get even more excited for the holiday with The Bellwoods Game!
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