Introduction:
The world of literature offers a myriad of genres and themes to cater to every reader’s taste. For tweens who have a love for fantasy and a taste for the spooky, the supernatural genre presents an exciting realm of possibilities. From witches and wizards to vampires and werewolves, the supernatural saga provides an enthralling escape from reality. In this article, we will explore a selection of scary books that are perfect for tween fantasy fans looking to immerse themselves in the mystical and macabre.
- “Coraline” by Neil Gaiman: Neil Gaiman is a master of dark fantasy, and “Coraline” is a prime example of his exceptional storytelling. This eerie tale follows Coraline Jones, a brave and resourceful young girl who discovers a hidden door in her new home. Stepping through this portal, she enters an alternate version of her reality, where her “Other Mother” and “Other Father” have buttons for eyes. As Coraline uncovers the sinister truth behind this parallel world, she must summon her courage to save herself and her family. Gaiman’s vivid imagination and eerie atmosphere make “Coraline” a thrilling read for tweens seeking a spine-chilling adventure.
- “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” by Ransom Riggs: Combining vintage photography and supernatural elements, Ransom Riggs weaves a captivating tale in “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children.” This story revolves around sixteen-year-old Jacob Portman, who discovers a hidden world filled with children who possess peculiar abilities. As Jacob delves deeper into the mysteries of Miss Peregrine’s home, he uncovers dark secrets and encounters menacing creatures known as Hollowgasts. With its eerie ambiance and peculiar characters, this book takes readers on a haunting journey they won’t soon forget.
- “Lockwood & Co.: The Screaming Staircase” by Jonathan Stroud: For fans of ghostly encounters and supernatural investigations, “Lockwood & Co.: The Screaming Staircase” offers a thrilling and spine-chilling experience. In a world plagued by a ghost epidemic, Lucy Carlyle joins the Lockwood & Co. agency, a small team of young ghost hunters. Together, they venture into haunted houses, facing menacing apparitions and solving paranormal mysteries. Jonathan Stroud’s atmospheric writing style and intricate plot make this book a perfect choice for tweens yearning for hair-raising adventures.
- “The Graveyard Book” by Neil Gaiman: Neil Gaiman makes another appearance on this list with his award-winning novel, “The Graveyard Book.” The story follows Nobody Owens, a boy who is raised by ghosts in a graveyard after his family is murdered. As Nobody navigates the realms of the living and the dead, he encounters supernatural beings and faces off against a malevolent force determined to end his existence. Gaiman’s lyrical prose and unique premise make “The Graveyard Book” an enchanting and eerie read scary books for tweens.
“The Girl Who Drank the Moon” by Kelly Barnhill: Winner of the Newbery Medal, “The Girl Who Drank the Moon” seamlessly blends fantasy, magic, and a touch of darkness. In a village surrounded by a dangerous forest, a yearly sacrifice is made to appease the witch who resides within. However, when a young girl named Luna accidentally consumes moonlight, her life takes an unexpected turn. With the help of a friendly swamp monster, a tiny dragon, and a brave young boy, Luna embarks on a perilous journey to unravel the secrets of her past.
