Reviews

Hardly Haunted by Jessie Sima

hellohahnny's review against another edition

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lighthearted fast-paced

5.0

tayberryjelly's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging emotional funny fast-paced

5.0

hlweisshaar's review against another edition

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fast-paced

5.0

So fun and cute. Falls into one of my favorite children’s book categories - happily embracing spooky things instead of instilling fear. 

banana83854's review against another edition

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3.0

Enjoyed this creative picture book for spooky season.

joshgauthier's review against another edition

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4.0

With lovely illustrations, a sweet story, and one uncertain cat, Hardly Haunted is a wonderful book about a house learning to appreciate itself while longing for a family to fill its rooms.

clavishorti's review

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adventurous funny inspiring reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

It's an absolute gem for kids, offering a captivating story and charming illustrations, all thanks to the talented Jessie Sima. Hold on to your hats as you dive into the thrilling tale of a mysterious house perched on a hill, shrouded by her own shadows. The unexpected turns will keep you guessing.

The house is desperate to find a family, but there's a twist: she needs one that doesn't mind a bit of haunting. So, with all her might, she behaves impeccably, hoping to find the perfect match. Will her efforts lead to the discovery of the perfect family she yearns for?

And the best part is yet to come! The house fulfills her mission and finds a family that not only accepts her spookiness but actually embraces it. Can you guess who that family might be? Well, that's a secret you'll only discover by reading it yourself.

The book offers valuable messages about acceptance and finding one's true home. It teaches us that being different is not a flaw but a unique trait that can be cherished by the right people. The house's journey to find a family that appreciates her spookiness is a heartwarming reminder that everyone deserves love and belonging.

A particular quote that stayed with me goes, "I'll just have to find people who like that I'm spooky," she thought. "A family who will help this haunted house become a haunted home." Goosebumps!

Believe me, this is a perfect bedtime storybook that sparks imagination and curiosity. Jessie Sima's dual talent as a writer and illustrator is absolutely mind-blowing. You'll be enchanted by the visuals that bring the story to life. So, dive into Hardly Haunted and let its messages of acceptance and belonging resonate with your heart.

adriagoetz's review against another edition

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5.0

I wish I wrote this book!! So stinking cute and clever.

ellieroth's review against another edition

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adventurous mysterious fast-paced

4.25

jeninmotion's review against another edition

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dark lighthearted medium-paced

4.25

This was very cute: a creaky old house looks for family that will love it as it is. And finds them.

stophie12's review against another edition

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funny lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25