The Ghost of Ernie P.

October 1, 1990
When Jeff moves to Treverton, he wants nothing to do with Ernie P. Barber, the local bully, and his troublemaking pranks, but it's easier and safer not to reject his friendship. Then Ernie dies in a freak accident, and Jeff thinks his problems are over. Unfortunately, Ernie's ghost is even harder to elude, for it wants Jeff to complete his Top Secret Project: exposing a local resident as a witch. Jeff, facing great danger, reluctantly decides to stand up to both ghost and witch. Humorous coincidences add comic relief to the suspense, e.g. the weather turns nasty whenever Ernie's middle name (Precious) is mentioned. Jeff is an interesting, resourceful character and his method for getting rid of the ghost may prove helpful to others who are bothered by bullies. Adults are portrayed less successfully; Jeff's mother is a cloying and whining caricature who raises her son by pop-psychology, and Ernie's mother is totally blind to her son's faults. Although this is not Wright at her best, the plot is good and there is enough action to keep readers involved. The book lacks the terror and tension of The Dollhouse Murders (1983) or Christina's Ghost (1985, both Holiday), but will find an audience in most libraries. -Jeanette Larson, Mesquite Public Library, TX

January 1, 1990
In a fast-moving tale of haunting and revenge, the ghost of his classmate Ernie P. haunts Jeff, urging him to carry out his mysterious T.S.P. - the Top Secret Plan. Full of action, suspense, and good-humored tension.

(Copyright 1990 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)