Hugo's haunted handbook

Gr 1--3--Got ghosts? Hugo has proven results in "booting your boo"--or has he? This playful graphic novel offers a silly look at Hugo, who fancies himself an expert on ghosts and their removal, and the sheet-adorned spirit that isn't quite ready to disappear. Together, the two navigate friendship with some laugh-out-loud moments, from static cling problems to hilarious ghost-be-gone chants. Breaking the fourth wall, Hugo and his ghostly crony speak directly to readers. Sight gags provide giggles aplenty, and seeing Hugo and his ghost talk out their differences models the best way to navigate disputes. Not at all scary, the ghost is more concerned with mugging for readers than striking fear into anyone's heart, and Hugo's exasperation is played up for big laughs. Expressive cartoon artwork uses shades of purple, yellow, and black to create a nighttime setting. Are ghosts really that scary? Can humans and cheese-stained spirits get along? All signs point to yes in an entertaining story about finding friendship in the unlikeliest of places, like a dresser drawer. VERDICT An easy-to-read graphic novel that newly confident readers will enjoy. A recommended purchase.--Rosemary Kiladitis

A self-proclaimed ghost expert instructs readers on how to rid their homes of spirits. "GOT GHOSTS?" asks Hugo, a dark-skinned child with huge eyes and a mop of black curls. "Thinkin' about ditchin' your apparition? Do you want to give your spirit a lift? Force out your phantom? Boot out your boo? Then you've come to the right book!" Hugo brags about having ousted a ghost, then suggests that readers try a few experiments to determine if they really have a ghost at home (look for ectoplasm, set up a camera). Hugo then identifies typical ghostly behaviors (spirits are prone to boredom and enjoy pranks) and offers suggestions for getting rid of them (shriek "Bam shicka lam shicka boom boom bam," practice playing your recorder as loudly as you can). All the while, the ghost whom Hugo supposedly banished follows the unaware child from room to room. Eventually, child and ghost meet and talk, with encouraging results. This graphic novel aimed at younger readers features exaggerated cartoon illustrations and silly exchanges between Hugo and the ghost. The tale brims with wordplay, visual gags, potty humor, and whimsy. (Who knew ghosts love to short-sheet each other?) The text is concise, making it ideal for reluctant readers. Some sophisticated vocabulary is incorporated, and the burgeoning friendship between Hugo and the ghost is heartening. Spook-tacular! (Graphic fiction. 5-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.