A review by karlakayjenniges
Joni Jones and the Ghost Train by P.D. Leyshon, P.D. Leyshon

adventurous funny mysterious fast-paced

5.0

 "It was a question that had troubled the villagers of Nant-Y-Glo in West Wales for nearly a year since that Halloween night when the eleven-year-old schoolboy disappeared. Eleven months and twenty-nine days, to be exact."

Joni's brother disappeared almost a year ago. Life has not been the same for Joni and his grandparents. Their hearts are filled with sadness and worry. Joni begins to experience strange occurrences. Waking in the night, hearing a train that should not exist. Seeing a woman and a white crow. Discovering his brother has his telescope pointed towards the old path in the woods, wondering why. He also discovers his brother's hidden diary with things written that are the same as what he is experiencing. 

Joni convinces his best friend, Osh, to investigate where the sound of the train is coming from. They never could have imagined what they would encounter or the adventure they will be taken on after jumping on the train. Eventually joining up with others, they learn where they are, why they are there, what they must do to rescue Joni's brother, and are able to return home safely. 

There is so much that occurs throughout the story. It is mysterious and filled with historical times. The adventure is exciting and engaging. I really enjoyed the quirkiness and diversity of the characters and the bonds between friends. It was great to see each of them discover more about themselves and begin to show their strengths. The descriptive prose created a vivid and atmospheric setting of the parallel world set in the past. There is just enough darkness that creates a creepy, ghostly, spine-tingling adventure.

As an elementary librarian, I can easily say that this is a perfect book for those kids that love a fantastical, historical, spooky read! There were certain names of the kids that popped into my thoughts that I know would love this book!

As an adult reading it with the kids in mind, it was really fun to read. But I also feel that as an adult, if you still love to read middle grade books, I definitely recommend grabbing your own copies to enjoy. Also, if you have your own children to read with or children with a passion for reading, this adventurous book is delightful!