Book Overview: "Who Knew There'd Be Ghosts?" by Bill Brittain

Plot Summary: The book "Who Knew There'd Be Ghosts?" by Bill Brittain follows the adventures of three spunky youngsters who join forces with two lively ghosts to save a historic mansion, Parnell House, from being destroyed by a crooked antique dealer. The story begins with the three friends overhearing a stranger's plan to demolish the house in search of its hidden treasure. Determined to save the house, they enlist the help of the ghosts, who possess knowledge and skills that aid in their mission. Together, they uncover the secrets of Parnell House and thwart the evil plans of the mysterious stranger.

Key Themes:

1. Friendship and Teamwork: The story highlights the importance of friendship and teamwork as the three youngsters and the ghosts work together to achieve their goal.
2. Preservation of History: The plot emphasizes the value of preserving historical landmarks and the cultural heritage they represent.
3. Bravery and Resourcefulness: The characters demonstrate bravery and resourcefulness as they navigate through the challenges posed by the crooked antique dealer and the haunted mansion.

Critical Reception: While specific critical reviews are not readily available in the search results, the book is generally described as a fun and engaging read for children aged 9-12. Publishers Weekly notes that the story is enhanced by the help of a couple of ghosts, making it an exciting adventure for young readers.

Additional Information:

• Publication Date: The book was first published in 1985.
• Target Audience: The book is aimed at children aged 9-12.
• Genre: The story falls under the category of children's fiction, specifically a ghost story or mystery novel.

Overall, "Who Knew There'd Be Ghosts?" by Bill Brittain is a delightful and suspenseful tale that combines elements of mystery, adventure, and friendship, making it an enjoyable read for young audiences.