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Jake Weir
Paranormal Properties
Jake Weir, while on the set of his parents ghost hunting TV show, agrees to help a ghost investigate a 61 year-old murder.
Jake Weir is not like the other kids in Dusk, North Carolina. Then again, Dusk, North Carolina is not like other cities. Known as one of the most haunted cities in America, behind Salem, Massachusetts and New Orleans, Louisiana, Dusk is ground zero for Jake's ghost hunting parents.
The Weir family has arrived in Dusk eager to scope out some of the town's 127 reported "paranormal properties," which just happens to be the name of their own ghost hunting show: Paranormal Properties. What Jake doesn't know, and what his parents could never imagine, is that Jake can see ghosts! And hear them. And talk back to them! This talent comes in handy when he runs into Dusk's oldest, most famous ghost: one Frank Barrone, a one-time lounge singer made famous by his booze-soaked ballad, "Barroom Eyes."
Frank was gunned down by a local mobster in 1951 and has been searching for his killer ever since. When he learns that Jake can see and hear him, Frank makes young Jake a deal: if Jake will help Frank find his killer, Frank will help his parents find a ghost to film for their upcoming Halloween Special on Public Access Channel #319. Jake enlists the only friend he's made in Dusk, an overweight tomboy nicknamed "Tank," to help him track down Frank's killer. As clues emerge and old leads heat up, Frank and Jake learn they make quite a team. But will Jake find Frank's killer? And will Frank find a real haunted house in time for Halloween?
Jake Weir is not like the other kids in Dusk, North Carolina. Then again, Dusk, North Carolina is not like other cities. Known as one of the most haunted cities in America, behind Salem, Massachusetts and New Orleans, Louisiana, Dusk is ground zero for Jake's ghost hunting parents.
The Weir family has arrived in Dusk eager to scope out some of the town's 127 reported "paranormal properties," which just happens to be the name of their own ghost hunting show: Paranormal Properties. What Jake doesn't know, and what his parents could never imagine, is that Jake can see ghosts! And hear them. And talk back to them! This talent comes in handy when he runs into Dusk's oldest, most famous ghost: one Frank Barrone, a one-time lounge singer made famous by his booze-soaked ballad, "Barroom Eyes."
Frank was gunned down by a local mobster in 1951 and has been searching for his killer ever since. When he learns that Jake can see and hear him, Frank makes young Jake a deal: if Jake will help Frank find his killer, Frank will help his parents find a ghost to film for their upcoming Halloween Special on Public Access Channel #319. Jake enlists the only friend he's made in Dusk, an overweight tomboy nicknamed "Tank," to help him track down Frank's killer. As clues emerge and old leads heat up, Frank and Jake learn they make quite a team. But will Jake find Frank's killer? And will Frank find a real haunted house in time for Halloween?
192 pages, Paperback
First published February 27, 2013
6 people are currently reading
853 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Lane-Hembley
7 books30 followersParanormal Properties has won the 2014 Children's/Juvenile category in New Generation Indie Book Awards!
I was fascinated with the paranormal when I was very young. I always felt like someone was around me even when I was alone. Then right before I turned 23 I "died" in a car wreck. It was only for a minute and they got me back pretty fast. But even so, I remember it all. I rose up to the ceiling and realized I was not in my body any longer. Then next thing I knew I slammed back into my body. That experience caused me to start "ghost-hunting."
I use to love to write short stories in school and always wanted to be a writer. But raising children and working jobs I just could not find the time to indulge my passion. Then my children grew up and I ended having two teenagers at home who did not need as much attention from me. I started toying with the idea of writing once again. So setting aside 5 to 10 minutes per day to write at least one page I could end up with a book a year. Now Paranormal Properties is published and I have a list of 8 more books to write. I don't think I"ll be slowing down anytime soon.
I was fascinated with the paranormal when I was very young. I always felt like someone was around me even when I was alone. Then right before I turned 23 I "died" in a car wreck. It was only for a minute and they got me back pretty fast. But even so, I remember it all. I rose up to the ceiling and realized I was not in my body any longer. Then next thing I knew I slammed back into my body. That experience caused me to start "ghost-hunting."
I use to love to write short stories in school and always wanted to be a writer. But raising children and working jobs I just could not find the time to indulge my passion. Then my children grew up and I ended having two teenagers at home who did not need as much attention from me. I started toying with the idea of writing once again. So setting aside 5 to 10 minutes per day to write at least one page I could end up with a book a year. Now Paranormal Properties is published and I have a list of 8 more books to write. I don't think I"ll be slowing down anytime soon.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 2, 2018
My rating: 4.5 stars
Paranormal Properties first got my attention because of the really beautiful cover art (by Natalia Nesterova).
I am not reading a lot of YA books. This one was recommended 11+ years. So I wasn’t sure if I would like it. Despite my skepticism I enjoyed this little book immensely!
I had a lot of fun following Jake and Tank help Frank find his killer. I especially loved that Tank is not your usual 'girly' girl character.
I would recommend Paranormal Properties to girls and boys alike and to grown-ups that like to read children’s/YA books from time to time. Paranormal Properties is a quick read with adorable, well-drawn characters.
Paranormal Properties first got my attention because of the really beautiful cover art (by Natalia Nesterova).
I am not reading a lot of YA books. This one was recommended 11+ years. So I wasn’t sure if I would like it. Despite my skepticism I enjoyed this little book immensely!
I had a lot of fun following Jake and Tank help Frank find his killer. I especially loved that Tank is not your usual 'girly' girl character.
I would recommend Paranormal Properties to girls and boys alike and to grown-ups that like to read children’s/YA books from time to time. Paranormal Properties is a quick read with adorable, well-drawn characters.
March 18, 2013
Paranormal Properties is a downright fun read. I love books with ghosts, but particularly so when they are more fun than scary and that's definitely the case here.
Jake discovers he can see and talk to ghosts and when one when asks for help he finds the perfect opportunity to maybe convince his parents to stay in one place rather than continuing to move around finding places to film for their TV show Paranormal Properties. Jake likes it in Dusk and is ready to be a normal kid.
There's a bit of mystery in figuring out who killed Frank Barrone and it's a lot of fun hanging out with Frank and Jake as they unravel what happened way back in 1951. Frank sounds completely authentic to his own time period, which I really loved and appreciated. He also has this great humor that made me laugh more than once. Not only that but him and Jake have some great banter that totally had me giggling. I really enjoyed every moment of those two together. Tank, Jakes friend, isn't real present in a good chunk of the book, but when she's around she's a lot of fun too. I like her bold personality and how she's had a tough life in many ways but recovers from each bad thing stronger than before.
This is a YA book but it definitely straddles middle grade as well. I would say that it's one that would fit well in either section as Jake is 14 so it could go either way. It's a clean read and one that boys and girls both would likely enjoy. While it's a lot of fun it still has depth and deals with a few real life issues like Tanks life (I can't say much about that without spoilers) and Jake really wanting to be a normal kid that lives in one place and attends regular school. We also get a look at 1951 and how things were back then through Frank and them working to figure out who killed him. It's a perfect mix of fun and serious and while I know it wasn't actually a perfect book, any issues I had were quickly forgotten because of how much I enjoyed the rest of it. I definitely suggest you pick this one up, it's a quick, easy and fun book that people of many ages will likely enjoy.
You can find this review and others like it on my blog at http://www.candacesbookblog.com
Jake discovers he can see and talk to ghosts and when one when asks for help he finds the perfect opportunity to maybe convince his parents to stay in one place rather than continuing to move around finding places to film for their TV show Paranormal Properties. Jake likes it in Dusk and is ready to be a normal kid.
There's a bit of mystery in figuring out who killed Frank Barrone and it's a lot of fun hanging out with Frank and Jake as they unravel what happened way back in 1951. Frank sounds completely authentic to his own time period, which I really loved and appreciated. He also has this great humor that made me laugh more than once. Not only that but him and Jake have some great banter that totally had me giggling. I really enjoyed every moment of those two together. Tank, Jakes friend, isn't real present in a good chunk of the book, but when she's around she's a lot of fun too. I like her bold personality and how she's had a tough life in many ways but recovers from each bad thing stronger than before.
This is a YA book but it definitely straddles middle grade as well. I would say that it's one that would fit well in either section as Jake is 14 so it could go either way. It's a clean read and one that boys and girls both would likely enjoy. While it's a lot of fun it still has depth and deals with a few real life issues like Tanks life (I can't say much about that without spoilers) and Jake really wanting to be a normal kid that lives in one place and attends regular school. We also get a look at 1951 and how things were back then through Frank and them working to figure out who killed him. It's a perfect mix of fun and serious and while I know it wasn't actually a perfect book, any issues I had were quickly forgotten because of how much I enjoyed the rest of it. I definitely suggest you pick this one up, it's a quick, easy and fun book that people of many ages will likely enjoy.
You can find this review and others like it on my blog at http://www.candacesbookblog.com
May 28, 2013
First off thank you Librarything member give-away program for choosing me as a winner of this book for free. What a fun book to receive. This is a little paranormal mystery based around young middle school age children and a ghost from the past that needs help from these two kids, but more so from the young boy Jake who can see and hear him. The characters where well described and I can see more in store for all of them and would love to hear more about them. If the author writes more I will read them for sure and hold on to them till my little ones are a bit older to enjoy them as well. I recommend this book to middle school age children that have an interest in the paranormal genre. However it is a cute and fast read for adults as well. I read it in less then 24 hours! A+
March 3, 2013
This is a quick, fun, engaging read perfect for boys AND girls in middle school and junior high; it's probably even safe for upper elementary grades as well. It's got a great mystery blended in with several ghost stories as Jake Weir -- his "friends" call him Jake Weird!!! -- and his parents, host of the ghost hunting reality show "Paranormal Properties" scour around Dusk, North Carolina tracking haunted houses and telling their stories. Jake is a great protagonist I think kids will relate to and as his friendship with the ghost in the story, Frank, evolves it will make readers want to find out how Frank came to be a ghost -- and what might happen next!!!
December 13, 2020
I thought this book was great ghosts are always painted in a bad light so this was a great change.
August 25, 2013
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
I love paranormal/ghost stories, so when I was given the opportunity to read this Young Adult novel, I accepted gladly. I loved it!
Jake Weir is a fantastic character! He is fourteen years old, and is quite mature for his age. He has to be, as both his parents are very busy running their ghost hunting TV show, Paranormal Properties. He is also quite a lonely boy, as he has no friends. However, he meets "Tank" and life is not so bad any more. Just when he thought he had a chance at a normal life, he meets Frank Barrone, Dusk's famous ghost.
Frank Barrone was a famous lounge singer, who was cruelly gunned down and killed in 1951. I loved this character! He's a bit of a charmer, who flirted with all the ladies, but only had eyes for one lady. Unfortunately, she was the girlfriend of a local mobster.
When he realises that Jake can see and hear him, he enlists Jake's help to track down his killer.
This is a fantastic book, full of intrigue and mystery. I was quickly caught up in the adventure, and found myself picturing the scenes in my head; I could easily see the characters and events as they happened. The descriptive writing of the author drew me in, and I just had to keep reading! I struggled to put the book down! There is a really funny scene that includes Jake, Jake's parents, Frank and some Halloween decorations that had me giggling! However, I was a little bit disappointed with the storyline near the end of the book. I wanted a bit more in the way of closure for Frank, but I understand why the author wrote those scenes as she did. The end of the book doesn't end in a cliffhanger, but it leaves it open for a possibility of another book. The story has intrigued me enough that, if there is another book (whether in a series or stand-alone), I would certainly consider reading it.
Tracy Lane has written a thoroughly entertaining read that would appeal to both boys and girls in the 11+ age range. However, I feel that adults could enjoy this too. Therefore, I highly recommend this book if you love Paranormal YA. - Lynn Worton
I love paranormal/ghost stories, so when I was given the opportunity to read this Young Adult novel, I accepted gladly. I loved it!
Jake Weir is a fantastic character! He is fourteen years old, and is quite mature for his age. He has to be, as both his parents are very busy running their ghost hunting TV show, Paranormal Properties. He is also quite a lonely boy, as he has no friends. However, he meets "Tank" and life is not so bad any more. Just when he thought he had a chance at a normal life, he meets Frank Barrone, Dusk's famous ghost.
Frank Barrone was a famous lounge singer, who was cruelly gunned down and killed in 1951. I loved this character! He's a bit of a charmer, who flirted with all the ladies, but only had eyes for one lady. Unfortunately, she was the girlfriend of a local mobster.
When he realises that Jake can see and hear him, he enlists Jake's help to track down his killer.
This is a fantastic book, full of intrigue and mystery. I was quickly caught up in the adventure, and found myself picturing the scenes in my head; I could easily see the characters and events as they happened. The descriptive writing of the author drew me in, and I just had to keep reading! I struggled to put the book down! There is a really funny scene that includes Jake, Jake's parents, Frank and some Halloween decorations that had me giggling! However, I was a little bit disappointed with the storyline near the end of the book. I wanted a bit more in the way of closure for Frank, but I understand why the author wrote those scenes as she did. The end of the book doesn't end in a cliffhanger, but it leaves it open for a possibility of another book. The story has intrigued me enough that, if there is another book (whether in a series or stand-alone), I would certainly consider reading it.
Tracy Lane has written a thoroughly entertaining read that would appeal to both boys and girls in the 11+ age range. However, I feel that adults could enjoy this too. Therefore, I highly recommend this book if you love Paranormal YA. - Lynn Worton
May 30, 2013
It follows Jake Weir as he helps his parents who host a TV show called Paranormal Properties. While he is helping his parents he befriend a ghost named Frank Barrone a lounge singer that was murdered in the 50's. Together Jake and Frank with the help of Jakes friend Tank try to gather information to find out who murdered Frank. The search for Franks killer leads them to meet a cast of colorful characters and a very fun adventure. With the help of Frank, Jake is also trying to help his parents get out of local TV and onto bigger and better things.
I loved the name of the show. It reminded me of the show Ghost Hunters (and I LOVE Ghost Hunters) I thinks its what drew me to this book in the beginning. I had seen it on Goodreads and was so excited when I received an email requesting to sign up for the tour. Totally could not pass this up. I was happy to say I wasn't disappointed. The characters were great. I loved following Jake along in this adventure. Reading about his frustrations in having to help his parents and not having a permanent place to live. He hated having to move around so much so his parents could do the TV Show. He didn't have many friends and the ones he had he always had to leave because he moved to much until his meets Tank a chubby girl who is dealing with a lot of issues of her own (really felt bad for her) and Frank a ghost looking for the person who killed him. Frank is quite a handsome fella and the story about his death is rather interesting. The back story about him was great.
I really felt the entire story really keeps your interest. Its very interesting. Its a young adult version of a ghost story murder mystery.
I really can see this being a very cute series that I would be happy to continue reading. It's also something I would recommend for my son or nephew to read.
I strongly recommend for anyone (adults included) that enjoys the Paranormal and are looking for a fun and completely original story.
I loved the name of the show. It reminded me of the show Ghost Hunters (and I LOVE Ghost Hunters) I thinks its what drew me to this book in the beginning. I had seen it on Goodreads and was so excited when I received an email requesting to sign up for the tour. Totally could not pass this up. I was happy to say I wasn't disappointed. The characters were great. I loved following Jake along in this adventure. Reading about his frustrations in having to help his parents and not having a permanent place to live. He hated having to move around so much so his parents could do the TV Show. He didn't have many friends and the ones he had he always had to leave because he moved to much until his meets Tank a chubby girl who is dealing with a lot of issues of her own (really felt bad for her) and Frank a ghost looking for the person who killed him. Frank is quite a handsome fella and the story about his death is rather interesting. The back story about him was great.
I really felt the entire story really keeps your interest. Its very interesting. Its a young adult version of a ghost story murder mystery.
I really can see this being a very cute series that I would be happy to continue reading. It's also something I would recommend for my son or nephew to read.
I strongly recommend for anyone (adults included) that enjoys the Paranormal and are looking for a fun and completely original story.
June 24, 2013
The main problem with buying a book that you see online is that at times, it isn't quite what you expected. I thought this was a humorous paranormal mystery. I should have paid a little more attention to the description on the front that described it as a mix of Scooby Doo, CSI, and the Hardy Boys. AS you have probably guessed this book is written for the younger reader.
I had a couple of problems with this book. Just because a book is written for younger readers, it does not mean you shouldn't pay attention to the details. Jake's parents really didn't seem to have a way to support themselves, let alone to be able to foster care another child. For a small town, it really seemed to have a lot of things in it. Having lived in a small town in North Carolina for most of my life, I can not imagine a buisiness shutting down and remaining empty for over 50 years (especially with an unbroken neon sign over it).
There were a few continuity issues with the book. Most were small, such as naming 3 people and then saying that 4 were done. There was one fairly large problem. Frank was shot while onstage at a busy nightclub, but then supposedly no one knew where his body ended up being buried. The shooters ran out of the club as soon as they shot Frank so his body would have been right there.
The book didn't really seem to have a definitive ending. I know it was to set up for more books, but it just seemed to be a little unsatisfying. Again, just because it is meant for younger readers, it doesn't mean it can ignore its own internal logic.
Overall, this wasn't that bad of a story. While I wouldn't recommend it to most older readers, it really isn't meant for them. Younger readers (up to 13 years old maybe) would probably enjoy it and not be bothered by the things that annoyed me.
I had a couple of problems with this book. Just because a book is written for younger readers, it does not mean you shouldn't pay attention to the details. Jake's parents really didn't seem to have a way to support themselves, let alone to be able to foster care another child. For a small town, it really seemed to have a lot of things in it. Having lived in a small town in North Carolina for most of my life, I can not imagine a buisiness shutting down and remaining empty for over 50 years (especially with an unbroken neon sign over it).
There were a few continuity issues with the book. Most were small, such as naming 3 people and then saying that 4 were done. There was one fairly large problem. Frank was shot while onstage at a busy nightclub, but then supposedly no one knew where his body ended up being buried. The shooters ran out of the club as soon as they shot Frank so his body would have been right there.
The book didn't really seem to have a definitive ending. I know it was to set up for more books, but it just seemed to be a little unsatisfying. Again, just because it is meant for younger readers, it doesn't mean it can ignore its own internal logic.
Overall, this wasn't that bad of a story. While I wouldn't recommend it to most older readers, it really isn't meant for them. Younger readers (up to 13 years old maybe) would probably enjoy it and not be bothered by the things that annoyed me.
December 31, 2013
Such a fun quick read! This was a great story about a boy who travels with his parents from town to town. His parents are the only members of the Paranormal Properties ghost show, his mom the face and his dad the camerman, with both doing research and producing the show. They aren't a very well known or popular show, but they are skating by. With no true sitings of the paranormal they are closing on the end. Their hope is to get one last shot by going to one of the top haunted towns in the U.S. Dusk, NC. Jake Weir is not a believer of ghosts but he helps out his family anyways, and wants the best for them and their quest. When Jake arrives at Dusk he befriends a big girl known as Tank when he meets her in the cemetery in town. One day while helping his parents at a shoot and pale man with an outdated suit came up to him and asked for his help. The next visit with the mysterious guy Jake found out he was a ghost and Jake has the rare ability to see and hear the spectrals. Frank Barrone is the ghost and was shot and killed back in the 50s, he wants Jake to find his killer so he can rest in peace. Jake accepts the deal, on one condition, if Frank helps his parents out. So Jake and Frank set out on an adventure to find Franks killer.
This was a great little story for all ages. Written probably more for preteen ages, but I believe anyone up for a cute little mystery or ghost story would really enjoy this. The characters are all quite fun. I believe Tracy Lane did a great job in getting you invested in the characters and story.
This was a great little story for all ages. Written probably more for preteen ages, but I believe anyone up for a cute little mystery or ghost story would really enjoy this. The characters are all quite fun. I believe Tracy Lane did a great job in getting you invested in the characters and story.
May 13, 2013
Background: Jake is the son of the Paranormal Properties husband and wife ghost hunting team, and he has always be skeptical about his parents work. Then they move to Dusk and Jake finds himself face to face with a real ghost, that only he can see and hear, and the ghost needs his help.
Review: Jake, Tank, and Frank are amazingly entertaining characters and the story line of Paranormal Properties is fast paced and fun filled. I really enjoyed the murder mystery wrapped into a ghost story and think that young reads will enjoy it too. Jake is not your normal young boy, he is home-schooled and helps on his parent's show. Tank is the daughter of a local car salesman and befriends Jake in the first few chapters. There isn't a lot of character development, or even information about how their friendship blossoms, but they compliment one another very well. The parents are eccentric and over the top and I think readers will find them funny and a bit weird.
As for the plot, Frank the ghost is from the 1950s and there is a mystery that surrounds his death. Who had him killed? I think it was a very creative way to introduce this character, why not make it a crime solving/ ghost hunting/ mobster tale. All of these elements made for a flourish of a tale. I think you boys and girls will enjoy this mystery and love to continue reading about the Jake and Frank ghost crime solving duo.
Review: Jake, Tank, and Frank are amazingly entertaining characters and the story line of Paranormal Properties is fast paced and fun filled. I really enjoyed the murder mystery wrapped into a ghost story and think that young reads will enjoy it too. Jake is not your normal young boy, he is home-schooled and helps on his parent's show. Tank is the daughter of a local car salesman and befriends Jake in the first few chapters. There isn't a lot of character development, or even information about how their friendship blossoms, but they compliment one another very well. The parents are eccentric and over the top and I think readers will find them funny and a bit weird.
As for the plot, Frank the ghost is from the 1950s and there is a mystery that surrounds his death. Who had him killed? I think it was a very creative way to introduce this character, why not make it a crime solving/ ghost hunting/ mobster tale. All of these elements made for a flourish of a tale. I think you boys and girls will enjoy this mystery and love to continue reading about the Jake and Frank ghost crime solving duo.
May 6, 2013
I love a good mystery so I was excited to win a copy of Paranormal Properties by Tracy Lane through the Library Thing Early Reviewers program. Paranormal Properties was a fast paced paranormal mystery with loveable characters and plenty of humor. This book reminded me of the Encyclopedia Brown mysteries that I was a big fan of growing up.
Jake the main character is an only child who has lived life on the road with his parents producing their own ghost hunting show on a cable access channel. Since the Weir Family doesn't stay in one town for long it's hard to make any lasting friendships. At the beginning of the book the family has arrived in Dusk, North Carolina which is reportedly one of America's most haunted cities. While in Dusk Jake learns that he can see and talk to ghosts when he meets a lounge singer by the name of Frank Barrone who was murdered by an unknown assailant. Frank asks Jake for his help and promises to help Jake's parents with their show in return. I enjoyed this book and thought it was a fun, quick read that would appeal to even the most reluctant readers. I think middle school boys especially would be drawn to this title. The only thing I think could have made the book better is if the mystery was a bit more suspenseful. The solving of the mystery could have involved more plot twists and turns, however, I still think it is a good book and am rating it 3.5 stars. I would recommend this book to fans of the mystery or paranormal fiction.
Jake the main character is an only child who has lived life on the road with his parents producing their own ghost hunting show on a cable access channel. Since the Weir Family doesn't stay in one town for long it's hard to make any lasting friendships. At the beginning of the book the family has arrived in Dusk, North Carolina which is reportedly one of America's most haunted cities. While in Dusk Jake learns that he can see and talk to ghosts when he meets a lounge singer by the name of Frank Barrone who was murdered by an unknown assailant. Frank asks Jake for his help and promises to help Jake's parents with their show in return. I enjoyed this book and thought it was a fun, quick read that would appeal to even the most reluctant readers. I think middle school boys especially would be drawn to this title. The only thing I think could have made the book better is if the mystery was a bit more suspenseful. The solving of the mystery could have involved more plot twists and turns, however, I still think it is a good book and am rating it 3.5 stars. I would recommend this book to fans of the mystery or paranormal fiction.
April 21, 2013
What I liked: I thought the book was so wonderfully cute, and that I just loved all the characters in it. Frank, the ghost, is looking for his body and finds a friend in the only person who can see him - Jake. I love the compassion Frank shows for Jake, and how he helps his ghosthunter parents. Gotta say I dearly love Tank (though see my caveat below) and was glad Jake and his family took her in. Lots of good messages here. With the one exception noted below, I found the book well written and a joy to read.
What I didn’t like: I don’t like the “overweight” word, and I am especially unhappy at its employment in literature to stigmatize a person, especially – especially! – in children’s books. I strongly recommend that the author read up on how damaging stigmatizing fat people, especially children, is and can, and how that stance damages, sometimes permanently, the self esteem of children, which causes problems ranging from eating-disordered behavior to suicide. (Besides, we should not be equating "fat" with "unhealth," and teaching that critical thinking begins in childhood.) I recommend the wealth of information at NAAFA and HAES to the author, and anyone who wonders at this topic
In sum: A fun book for kids, but watch for the pitfalls listed above -- and talk to your kids about these issues in this and every book.
What I didn’t like: I don’t like the “overweight” word, and I am especially unhappy at its employment in literature to stigmatize a person, especially – especially! – in children’s books. I strongly recommend that the author read up on how damaging stigmatizing fat people, especially children, is and can, and how that stance damages, sometimes permanently, the self esteem of children, which causes problems ranging from eating-disordered behavior to suicide. (Besides, we should not be equating "fat" with "unhealth," and teaching that critical thinking begins in childhood.) I recommend the wealth of information at NAAFA and HAES to the author, and anyone who wonders at this topic
In sum: A fun book for kids, but watch for the pitfalls listed above -- and talk to your kids about these issues in this and every book.
December 21, 2013
Paranormal Properties is a very good ghost story. It is well done, entertaining and interesting. I enjoyed each page and was pleased with the pace of the tale. Tracy Lane did a very good job with the voice of this story. It will become a great favorite of pre-teens and such. This clean and innovative story would do great as a series.
Jake is a peculiar boy, no as much what he is, but who his parents are. His mom is the host, his father the cameraman of the Paranormal Properties online show. He wants his parents to see a ghost so they can become more successful in the show. He is worried that not one takes them seriously. This all changes when he meets Frank, the ghost of a singer killed in the 50’s. Frank wants to find closure by finding out who killed him and why. Jake makes a deal with him, he will help him if the ghost will do some ghostly things on his parents’ show.
Meanwhile, Jake makes friends with a girl nicknamed Tank. She is a big girl and gets in lots of trouble at school and home. They work together to help Frank find his killer. Soon she become inseparable from Jake in more than one-way.
Paranormal Properties is an easy to read book with a fun theme for any kid that likes horror or paranormal stories without all the gory details. It is a great book for any library or family to own. I am looking forward to the next book.
Jake is a peculiar boy, no as much what he is, but who his parents are. His mom is the host, his father the cameraman of the Paranormal Properties online show. He wants his parents to see a ghost so they can become more successful in the show. He is worried that not one takes them seriously. This all changes when he meets Frank, the ghost of a singer killed in the 50’s. Frank wants to find closure by finding out who killed him and why. Jake makes a deal with him, he will help him if the ghost will do some ghostly things on his parents’ show.
Meanwhile, Jake makes friends with a girl nicknamed Tank. She is a big girl and gets in lots of trouble at school and home. They work together to help Frank find his killer. Soon she become inseparable from Jake in more than one-way.
Paranormal Properties is an easy to read book with a fun theme for any kid that likes horror or paranormal stories without all the gory details. It is a great book for any library or family to own. I am looking forward to the next book.
October 22, 2013
A cute little ghost story that skews very young. I enjoyed Jake's skepticism in the face of his parents' obsession with ghosts, and how it was rattled when he met ghost Frank and agreed to help solve the mystery of Frank's murder 60+ years ago. I also enjoyed Jake's friendship with Tank, although it wasn't as well-drawn as it needed to be in order to support the events towards the end.
I wasn't quite able to suspend my disbelief as much as the main plot required -- not regarding ghosts, but regarding logistics and normal human behavior. For instance, the ease with which Jake charms the caretaker of the Lido Lounge into giving up information and not simply running the young trespasser off the property. Also, the book description calls Frank the "oldest, most famous ghost" in Dusk, North Carolina, but he only died around 1950 so what about all the other older ghosts that Jake's (under-developed) parents have come to investigate? It may sound like I'm nitpicking, but this is but one example of all the little details that one must ignore in order the enjoy the story, and which make it more suitable for much younger readers. That is, if parents don't mind the off-color post-war humor of Frank and his old crowd!
I wasn't quite able to suspend my disbelief as much as the main plot required -- not regarding ghosts, but regarding logistics and normal human behavior. For instance, the ease with which Jake charms the caretaker of the Lido Lounge into giving up information and not simply running the young trespasser off the property. Also, the book description calls Frank the "oldest, most famous ghost" in Dusk, North Carolina, but he only died around 1950 so what about all the other older ghosts that Jake's (under-developed) parents have come to investigate? It may sound like I'm nitpicking, but this is but one example of all the little details that one must ignore in order the enjoy the story, and which make it more suitable for much younger readers. That is, if parents don't mind the off-color post-war humor of Frank and his old crowd!
May 20, 2013
Jake Weir can see ghosts. It’s a new phenomenon and one that takes him by surprise. His parents Stephanie and Dennis Weir have a ghost hunting show called Paranormal Properties. Jake wants to help them with their business and negotiates a deal with the ghost who is seeking his help.
Frank Barrone wants Jake to investigate his murder, which happened sixty years ago. With their deal struck, the adventure for Jake and Frank begins, and they set about investigating the past.
Jake is a good kid. He almost seems like the adult in his family, and he worries about what will happen and where they’ll move next while his parents play at ghost hunting. I liked Jake. He had a good heart and thinks of others before himself. I enjoyed his interaction with Frank, the ghost and also with Tank, the girl he meets in the graveyard.
Paranormal Properties is a middle grade book. It was well written and a pleasant read, keeping my interest throughout but it wasn’t anything I haven’t read before. I believe this is the first book in a series, and I’d be interested to see the direction the author takes with the next story. This book is a 3.5 star read for me.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Frank Barrone wants Jake to investigate his murder, which happened sixty years ago. With their deal struck, the adventure for Jake and Frank begins, and they set about investigating the past.
Jake is a good kid. He almost seems like the adult in his family, and he worries about what will happen and where they’ll move next while his parents play at ghost hunting. I liked Jake. He had a good heart and thinks of others before himself. I enjoyed his interaction with Frank, the ghost and also with Tank, the girl he meets in the graveyard.
Paranormal Properties is a middle grade book. It was well written and a pleasant read, keeping my interest throughout but it wasn’t anything I haven’t read before. I believe this is the first book in a series, and I’d be interested to see the direction the author takes with the next story. This book is a 3.5 star read for me.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 19, 2013
I'm always up for a good ghost story. Especially when they are more fun than scary. It might be considered a YA book but I think it is perfectly okay for ages 11 and up.
Jake is an character you can get behind. Tank, who isn't around for most of the book, is entertaining when she is. Frank, my favorite of the three, is pretty much what I picture a gentleman from the fifties would be like. They make a good group of characters.
The plot is pretty good. The mystery I liked until the end. I won't spoil it but it felt somewhat melodramatic. The part with the mansion, though, was unexpected and it was a good way to and a ghost story. So I was okay with the mysteroes ending but loved the ending of the story. The book, overall, was written well and was an enjoyable and fun read.
I really want to give it four out of five but I just can't quite did that. So it will get a 3.5. It was an fun and enjoyable ghost story that, I thank, anyone can read and enjoy. And I do recomend it.
More at http://paranormalsisters.blogspot.com/
Jake is an character you can get behind. Tank, who isn't around for most of the book, is entertaining when she is. Frank, my favorite of the three, is pretty much what I picture a gentleman from the fifties would be like. They make a good group of characters.
The plot is pretty good. The mystery I liked until the end. I won't spoil it but it felt somewhat melodramatic. The part with the mansion, though, was unexpected and it was a good way to and a ghost story. So I was okay with the mysteroes ending but loved the ending of the story. The book, overall, was written well and was an enjoyable and fun read.
I really want to give it four out of five but I just can't quite did that. So it will get a 3.5. It was an fun and enjoyable ghost story that, I thank, anyone can read and enjoy. And I do recomend it.
More at http://paranormalsisters.blogspot.com/
July 23, 2013
Reviewer: Danny
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Fairies
I love ghosts!
I really loved the cover and I couldn’t wait to read this.
I am not usually a fan of YA books. I prefer the adult reads, but this was really enjoyable. it made me laugh and was entertaining throughout!
Jake’s parents are ghost hunters, and they have their own show called “Paranormal Properties”. When the family arrives in Dusk, Jake learns that he can see and talk to ghosts.
It is really hard not to include a spoiler, so I will just say that when Jake meets Frank things get really, really fun! I am having one of these fan-girl moments where I am not sure what to say and what to leave out, but this was a really cute book, no matter your age you will enjoy it!
Disclosure: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an HONEST and not necessarily positive review.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Fairies
I love ghosts!
I really loved the cover and I couldn’t wait to read this.
I am not usually a fan of YA books. I prefer the adult reads, but this was really enjoyable. it made me laugh and was entertaining throughout!
Jake’s parents are ghost hunters, and they have their own show called “Paranormal Properties”. When the family arrives in Dusk, Jake learns that he can see and talk to ghosts.
It is really hard not to include a spoiler, so I will just say that when Jake meets Frank things get really, really fun! I am having one of these fan-girl moments where I am not sure what to say and what to leave out, but this was a really cute book, no matter your age you will enjoy it!
Disclosure: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an HONEST and not necessarily positive review.
August 9, 2013
Paranormal Properties was a great young adult read. It had a mix of fun, adolescence, intrigue and don’t forget the ghosts. Jake is a great character that I can’t wait to see grow as this series grows. I also have high hopes for Tank. I really enjoyed the story in general, but the mix of the intrigue of finding Frank’s killers and the almost silly actions of Jake’s parents blended very well. This is a very good book for the younger kids on the young adult scale. I don’t normally read this adolescent of a book, but I was pleasantly surprised. I would recommend this for anyone who likes a good ghost story and a whoever read books like Goosebumps or The Hardy Boys growing up. Overall, this is a great read and definitely a good starter series for the younger young adult reader.
September 22, 2013
This is a wonderful paranormal book for both children and adults! I have read this book several times and have always finished it and given it 5 STARS! The story line is interesting and fun, the characters are developed and fun, the setting is presented in a way that you can close your eyes and actually feel like you are there. Ms. Lane does a wonderful job with writing a great book that many people who have experienced the paranormal can relate to.
While this book is a perfect read anytime of the year, it is a great Halloween story for the children in your life! Dont pass this one up!
***Thank you for your donation of books to Wee Care Community Outreach's Literacy Program. We appreciate your generosity!***
While this book is a perfect read anytime of the year, it is a great Halloween story for the children in your life! Dont pass this one up!
***Thank you for your donation of books to Wee Care Community Outreach's Literacy Program. We appreciate your generosity!***
March 25, 2013
This was a delightful read, and I hope we will be seeing more books by Tracy Lane. Tracy's writing is vivid and engaging, and I loved her characters, especially Tank, Jake and Frank, the ghost. I especially liked Tank, as she seemed so much more "real" than a lot of teen-aged girls authors try to portray. Jake was totally lovable. The scene in the lounge really drew me into the book, and Lane did an excellent job of making a paranormal story "believable." This is not a genre I usually read, but I am looking forward to a sequel to this book. My husband is reading it now and enjoying it too.
May 28, 2013
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! I had such a good feeling right from the get go! I was like, “Geez! What a fun-fun-FUN premise! How could this go wrong?” Well, okay, so I know how it could go wrong. This one didn’t!
The characters were a BLAST! Frank, the ghost, had me laughing so hard! I love-love-loooooved Jake! I enjoyed seeing how he helped his ghost hunter parent. *wink, wink* Oh yeah. Ghost hunter parents. This is probably one of the reasons I synced so well with the characters. That’s my hobby. Yup. And Ms. Lane didn’t cover it syrup or dry it up with too much explanation!
If you want a FUN adventure in the supernatural department, totally pick up this book!
The characters were a BLAST! Frank, the ghost, had me laughing so hard! I love-love-loooooved Jake! I enjoyed seeing how he helped his ghost hunter parent. *wink, wink* Oh yeah. Ghost hunter parents. This is probably one of the reasons I synced so well with the characters. That’s my hobby. Yup. And Ms. Lane didn’t cover it syrup or dry it up with too much explanation!
If you want a FUN adventure in the supernatural department, totally pick up this book!
June 24, 2013
First I would like to thank LibraryThing for picking me as a winner of this book. This story is directed for readers age 9 to 14. The story is writen from the perspective of our main character Jake who has a special gift to see the dead. The ghost of the story Frank asks Jake a special favor and in return Frank will do something for Jake. This is a great read for those who love paranormal mysteries and a fast read for the average reader. I loved following the characters through this book and would like to see what is in store for the next chapter of the characters lives.
May 28, 2014
Advanced Reader's Copy. In desperate need of a copy editor... But, I enjoyed this book. It's a bit too young to be YA, except for the word "bastard," there are a few scenes of smoking and drinking, but the main characters aren't doing it... So, I'd think this book is geared more towards tweens than the YA crowd. Likable characters, good characterizations, enough of a plot to keep reluctant readers interested... A very easy to read book for everyone who enjoys sitting down to a light-hearted, and warm-hearted, ghost story.
May 10, 2013
Paranormal Properties is a such a fun read! The characters seem so real (even the ghost), and the situations they find themselves in are very creative. While I was reading, I could picture the scenes in my mind just as if I were watching a movie. I read a few chapters each night to my three sons and every time I'd come to the end of the chapter, they'd beg me to continue. I highly recommend this book for kids and adults who enjoy a fun and imaginative read. We can't wait for the sequel!
May 3, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. It took me about 2 days to read. The story line flowed nicely. Frank was quite a character. I was a little sad to see it end. I honestly think it could have been a little longer : ) Overall, the author did a great job. I would recommend giving this a read.
October 8, 2015
Really good YA book. You will like the characters in this book, told from the viewpoint of a boy who works with his parents on their "ghost hunting" show for local television. The story is good with twists and turns and the book is well written. I really enjoyed it.
May 28, 2013
This book showed me friendship in unexpected ways. Paranormal Properties did not end the way I thought it would, but I liked that it didn't. This is a nice light mystery for both kids and adults.
July 3, 2013
A fantastic read. Smooth fast plot and wonderful likeable characters. Congrats on an entertaining book.
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