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A review by nadiamasood
The Girl and the Ghost by Hanna Alkaf
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This ghost story left me feeling devastated!
Imagine inheriting a ghost from your grandmother and striking an unlikely friendship with him. You have been together since you were a toddler and he protects you at all costs...until his darker nature rears its ugly head.
What an emotionally wild, sometimes funny, oftentimes haunting story about friendship, loneliness, jealousy, bullying, and revenge. It is also about forgiveness, courage, and kindness.
This beautifully written and atmospheric novel unfolds in a quaint village in Malaysia. It begins with a lighthearted tone but gradually grows darker as the plot advances. I found myself utterly absorbed in the narrative!
I do have a couple of issues with the story. For instance, the friendship between Suraya and Pink that turned toxic due to him feeling jealous feels a bit dark for middle-grade children. And Jing going out of her way to save Pink after he tried to get her beaten to death? Did she know he was the reason for how she was nearly killed? I hope this was resolved in a better way.
What I loved most about this book:
Imagine inheriting a ghost from your grandmother and striking an unlikely friendship with him. You have been together since you were a toddler and he protects you at all costs...until his darker nature rears its ugly head.
What an emotionally wild, sometimes funny, oftentimes haunting story about friendship, loneliness, jealousy, bullying, and revenge. It is also about forgiveness, courage, and kindness.
This beautifully written and atmospheric novel unfolds in a quaint village in Malaysia. It begins with a lighthearted tone but gradually grows darker as the plot advances. I found myself utterly absorbed in the narrative!
What I loved most about this book:
- The ghost has his own POV!
- The part where Suraya names him "Pink" had me laughing out loud!
- Jing and Suraya's friendship. So precious!
- Learning about Malaysian culture and folklore.
- The funny ghost banter at the cemetery.
- Suraya choosing to go to her mom for help despite their strained relationship.
- The unexpected reveal toward the end!
Who is this book perfect for?
Those who love a little spooky story! If you enjoy powerful and atmospheric stories about family and friendship and don't mind it going to some dark places, this book is for you. Also recommended to those looking to read stories inspired by Malaysian folklore.
PS: This is an honest book review from a scaredy-cat who typically avoids horror novels.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Violence, and Toxic friendship
Moderate: Child death