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Dead Good Detectives #1
Dead Good Detectives
Sid Jones loves hanging out in the graveyard with her best friend Zen - they are desperate to see a real-life ghost!But when Sid accidentally summons a 300-year-old pirate from the dead, it opens the door to the HALFWAY HOUSE - a magical inn FULL of lost souls from across the ages, all trapped there by a sinister landlord.There are more ghosts that Sid could ever have imagined - and they're all sure Sid is there to save them! (Sid's sure there's been some kind of mistake.)But someone else is watching, and they're not happy about Sid helping the ghosts . . . TICK, TOCK - TIME IS RUNNING OUT
368 pages, Hardcover
First published July 1, 2022
15 people are currently reading
3361 people want to read
About the author
Jenny McLachlan
53 books303 followersI have always loved reading and I studied English at university just so that I could read a bit more. Next I found my way into secondary teaching and discovered that I loved it too: I got to read more books, show off and hang out with very funny teenagers. What a great job!
Teaching English also encouraged me to write. Soon I had planned and started lots of different stories, but they were all abandoned and shoved to the back of a drawer. Then, one day, the plot for Flirty Dancing came together; Bea’s story was so alive it was like a film running in my head and I knew it was a story I would finish.
Over the next few years, various exciting events distracted me from Flirty Dancing: I got married, travelled the world, was chased by an angry elephant (and a pack of dogs) and I had two babies. While I was sitting on trains, swimming in the Outback and raising two crazy girls, I kept thinking about Bea, and her friends, Betty, Kat and Pearl, until I realised I had planned three more books.
In 2013, after attending the Winchester Writers’ Festival, I plucked up the courage to send Flirty Dancing to Julia Churchill, a brilliant children’s fiction agent at A.M. Heath. With dazzling speed I was then signed by Bloomsbury to write the four books in the series.
Teaching English also encouraged me to write. Soon I had planned and started lots of different stories, but they were all abandoned and shoved to the back of a drawer. Then, one day, the plot for Flirty Dancing came together; Bea’s story was so alive it was like a film running in my head and I knew it was a story I would finish.
Over the next few years, various exciting events distracted me from Flirty Dancing: I got married, travelled the world, was chased by an angry elephant (and a pack of dogs) and I had two babies. While I was sitting on trains, swimming in the Outback and raising two crazy girls, I kept thinking about Bea, and her friends, Betty, Kat and Pearl, until I realised I had planned three more books.
In 2013, after attending the Winchester Writers’ Festival, I plucked up the courage to send Flirty Dancing to Julia Churchill, a brilliant children’s fiction agent at A.M. Heath. With dazzling speed I was then signed by Bloomsbury to write the four books in the series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
May 29, 2024
Sid likes to play games with her best friend Zen in the graveyard. It’s quiet there and it allows her to be closer to her mom. But one day, she ends up summoning a pirate ghost. Before she knows it, she finds a whole house full of ghosts. And they all want Sid’s help.
It’s clear Sid clings to the past from the get go. She often goes to the graveyard to connect with her mom who she never even met. The pirate ghost Ezekiel is the exact opposite of her as he actually seems to like exploring the wonders of the modern world and he wants to move on instead of clinging to the past.
Sid also struggles with her identity like all of us have when we were in school. And the comedy elevates the story as a whole. The thing is, Sid sees the parrot or the pirate ghost in class for example and she realizes that she’ll look weird if she acknowledges their existence when the rest of her class can’t see them. And she already feels alienated enough as it is. So she tries to ignore them. But that’s easier said than done. Which leads to some funny situations.
The concept is reminiscent of the BBC series Ghosts and it even reminds me a little bit of the Disney movie Blackbeard's Ghost. This one is also definitely aimed at kids and kids at heart. There’s a mystery, some adventure in the form of a treasure hunt and it deals with themes like bullying. But all in a rather fun and lighthearted way with a bit of comedy sprinkled over it as the finishing touch. It’s a story that starts out solid and pretty much stays at the same level until the end. Overall, a sweet and solid middle grade adventure with some fun characters that shows a lot of potential.
It’s clear Sid clings to the past from the get go. She often goes to the graveyard to connect with her mom who she never even met. The pirate ghost Ezekiel is the exact opposite of her as he actually seems to like exploring the wonders of the modern world and he wants to move on instead of clinging to the past.
Sid also struggles with her identity like all of us have when we were in school. And the comedy elevates the story as a whole. The thing is, Sid sees the parrot or the pirate ghost in class for example and she realizes that she’ll look weird if she acknowledges their existence when the rest of her class can’t see them. And she already feels alienated enough as it is. So she tries to ignore them. But that’s easier said than done. Which leads to some funny situations.
The concept is reminiscent of the BBC series Ghosts and it even reminds me a little bit of the Disney movie Blackbeard's Ghost. This one is also definitely aimed at kids and kids at heart. There’s a mystery, some adventure in the form of a treasure hunt and it deals with themes like bullying. But all in a rather fun and lighthearted way with a bit of comedy sprinkled over it as the finishing touch. It’s a story that starts out solid and pretty much stays at the same level until the end. Overall, a sweet and solid middle grade adventure with some fun characters that shows a lot of potential.
December 10, 2022
4.5 rounded up to 5
August 25, 2022
“sometimes we must sail into a storm, no matter how scared we are” — Bones.
there’s a lot that happens in dead good detectives, but to put it simply: dead good detectives is the story of two twelve year old’s helping a ghost pirate to pass on.
sid is a memorable main character. she’s weird, quirky, and relatable. did i mention she loves maps? i can’t say i loved maps as a kid, but each to their own i guess? i found it really unique. the start of the book features her map that she’s spent a long time drawing up. not only does it include places, but also memories – and i think that’s the coolest part. it’s a map that means something to her.
zen, her best friend, is your typical twelve year old. he loves to play games, particularly catching “ghosts” (/a plastic bag) in the local graveyard. his dedication to sid is truly outstanding. she reveals some weird stuff (ie, seeing a ghost pirate), and he offers to start helping said pirate.
bones is the ghost pirate. he’s easily my favourite character. he’s like a giant teddy bear, but intimidating looking. even though i knew how it was going to end (that is, the “happy ending”), i still couldn’t help myself. i cried, and cried and cried. this poor man suffered so much, yet received so much kindness. (i’ll say no more, as i don’t want to spoil anything).
it’s not all sad either. the characters are goofy and fun. i laughed many times. i couldn’t stop grinning during others. i just want to know why it’s always the middle grade books that have me feeling all kinds of emotions?
i can’t say this enough: please read this book. i don’t care if you “don’t read middle grade books”. do yourself a favour: read it.
tl;dr: i absolutely loved this book.
there’s a lot that happens in dead good detectives, but to put it simply: dead good detectives is the story of two twelve year old’s helping a ghost pirate to pass on.
sid is a memorable main character. she’s weird, quirky, and relatable. did i mention she loves maps? i can’t say i loved maps as a kid, but each to their own i guess? i found it really unique. the start of the book features her map that she’s spent a long time drawing up. not only does it include places, but also memories – and i think that’s the coolest part. it’s a map that means something to her.
zen, her best friend, is your typical twelve year old. he loves to play games, particularly catching “ghosts” (/a plastic bag) in the local graveyard. his dedication to sid is truly outstanding. she reveals some weird stuff (ie, seeing a ghost pirate), and he offers to start helping said pirate.
bones is the ghost pirate. he’s easily my favourite character. he’s like a giant teddy bear, but intimidating looking. even though i knew how it was going to end (that is, the “happy ending”), i still couldn’t help myself. i cried, and cried and cried. this poor man suffered so much, yet received so much kindness. (i’ll say no more, as i don’t want to spoil anything).
it’s not all sad either. the characters are goofy and fun. i laughed many times. i couldn’t stop grinning during others. i just want to know why it’s always the middle grade books that have me feeling all kinds of emotions?
i can’t say this enough: please read this book. i don’t care if you “don’t read middle grade books”. do yourself a favour: read it.
tl;dr: i absolutely loved this book.
April 30, 2023
Wholesome and lovely middle grade novel about ghosts, family and friendship. I enjoyed every moment of reading the book so much. The characters are so very sweet and fun, the illustrations are utterly gorgeous. Such a wonderful book! 🥰😍
January 25, 2023
Two weird people like playing in the graveyard then sid (main character) does a magic spell and spawns in big ghost.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2023
This was such a fun middle grade that sucked me right in! I loved the setting of the town and the relationships between characters. It feels like there's a lot of things packed into this - Sid drifting from Zen and acknowledging why, Sid's mum etc - but nothing feels like it's forcing a lesson. It's just great openings for talking points.
I loved Zen's confidence and how he helps Sid learn she doesn't need to fit in and that "weird" is great. I just really enjoyed this.
I loved Zen's confidence and how he helps Sid learn she doesn't need to fit in and that "weird" is great. I just really enjoyed this.
September 1, 2024
3.5 stars
I loved the atmosphere, the characters and the illustrations a lot. The plot feels a bit too slow and dragged out though. I feel like the book either needed to be a little bit shorter, or something else needed to be added for the plot. But overall I enjoyed the book, it's really cute, wholesome and lovely
I loved the atmosphere, the characters and the illustrations a lot. The plot feels a bit too slow and dragged out though. I feel like the book either needed to be a little bit shorter, or something else needed to be added for the plot. But overall I enjoyed the book, it's really cute, wholesome and lovely
August 14, 2022
Dead Good Detectives by Jenny McLachlan
This was such a great read. Lots of fun, Intrigue and most of all a inquisitive 300 year old pirate.
Loved this book and loved the illustrations by Chloe Dominique. A must have read by Halloween, thanks @harpercollins.
This was such a great read. Lots of fun, Intrigue and most of all a inquisitive 300 year old pirate.
Loved this book and loved the illustrations by Chloe Dominique. A must have read by Halloween, thanks @harpercollins.
November 14, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 21, 2024
Super fun middle grade book about a map girl trying to help a pirate ghost that is haunting her.
August 2, 2022
Sid loves maps. She's even drawing her own of her small seaside town of Fathom. She carries it with her everywhere in a special folder around her neck, so that whenever she sees something different she can add it to her map.
Her map doesn't just have streets and roads on it, it has trees and shops and letterboxes and even the gravestones in the graveyard. It's when she is adding a new headstone to her map that lighting strikes and an apparition appears in the doorway of the graveyard's mausoleum.
Later, in her room, she tries to tell herself it was the church caretaker, but soon can deny what she saw no more. A bright blue and yellow macaw begins to follow her around town screeching 'BUM!' in her ear, and a large pirate with long black hair, a diamond in his ear and a cutlass at his side, is sunbathing on the beach!
No-one else can see this ghost pirate and his parrot, and Sid struggles to ignore them any longer. She can't tell anyone what she can see, not even her best friend Zen. Even though they've played imaginative games all their lives, he surely wouldn't believe her.
The pirate is 300 year's dead Ezekiel Kittrow - also known as Bones. The bird is called Elizabeth. They are delighted at being free. But they have unfinished business and the only way they will leave Sid alone is if she helps them find Bones' treasure. The only problem is he can't remember what is is, or where he hid it.
Sid is thrown into an adventure full of treasure hunts, more lost souls, facing her bullies, learning more about her town's history and her own mum who died when she was a baby.
She never would have believed a ghost could become a friend and that she would be brave enough to fight a creature who collects souls for fun, let alone finally being brave enough to just be herself.
Sid tells her story directly to the reader. She's an instantly likeable character, quirky, funny and brave. The relationship she builds with a 300 year old ghost calls Bones is tentative at first. But Bones is full on pirate, in his speech, behaviour and brashness.
Both characters transform throughout this story. Sid finds her courage and finally stands up for herself against bullies and realises who she really is, and as they search for his treasure, Bones begins to remember what he is truly looking for.
An often funny, sometimes creepy, but always captivating Yo Ho Ho adventure of piratey proportions. Ghosts, laughs, treasure and mystery, all wrapped up with a stunning cover, by the author of The Land of Roar.
Her map doesn't just have streets and roads on it, it has trees and shops and letterboxes and even the gravestones in the graveyard. It's when she is adding a new headstone to her map that lighting strikes and an apparition appears in the doorway of the graveyard's mausoleum.
Later, in her room, she tries to tell herself it was the church caretaker, but soon can deny what she saw no more. A bright blue and yellow macaw begins to follow her around town screeching 'BUM!' in her ear, and a large pirate with long black hair, a diamond in his ear and a cutlass at his side, is sunbathing on the beach!
No-one else can see this ghost pirate and his parrot, and Sid struggles to ignore them any longer. She can't tell anyone what she can see, not even her best friend Zen. Even though they've played imaginative games all their lives, he surely wouldn't believe her.
The pirate is 300 year's dead Ezekiel Kittrow - also known as Bones. The bird is called Elizabeth. They are delighted at being free. But they have unfinished business and the only way they will leave Sid alone is if she helps them find Bones' treasure. The only problem is he can't remember what is is, or where he hid it.
Sid is thrown into an adventure full of treasure hunts, more lost souls, facing her bullies, learning more about her town's history and her own mum who died when she was a baby.
She never would have believed a ghost could become a friend and that she would be brave enough to fight a creature who collects souls for fun, let alone finally being brave enough to just be herself.
Sid tells her story directly to the reader. She's an instantly likeable character, quirky, funny and brave. The relationship she builds with a 300 year old ghost calls Bones is tentative at first. But Bones is full on pirate, in his speech, behaviour and brashness.
Both characters transform throughout this story. Sid finds her courage and finally stands up for herself against bullies and realises who she really is, and as they search for his treasure, Bones begins to remember what he is truly looking for.
An often funny, sometimes creepy, but always captivating Yo Ho Ho adventure of piratey proportions. Ghosts, laughs, treasure and mystery, all wrapped up with a stunning cover, by the author of The Land of Roar.
August 27, 2022
Gosh, this is so lush. Pirates, friends, missing treasure and a halfway house full of ghosts who need help. There’s loads to love about this! The illustrations by Chloe Dominique are just exceptional and the story had me gripped and smiling from the get go. Sid is such a lush main character and with a friend like Zen, they’re the perfect detective duo! Can’t wait for the next one now!
March 4, 2025
4.5 Stars
When I was roughly 8 years old, I went through a phase of reading every ghost book I could get my hands on. Ever since then, ghost stories have always held a special place in my heart, especially in middle grade fiction. So when I heard about Dead Good Detectives, which features not only ghosts but also pirates, witches, and a treasure hunt, you know it went on my TBR immediately.
The immersive, atmospheric setting immediately drew me into this story. Dead Good Detectives takes place in a dreary beach town brimming with personality. From local storeowners to quirky tourist attractions to the Pirate Day festivities, this town is like none other. It provides a perfect backdrop for all the antics that Sid and Zen get up to, and reading about this setting felt just like exploring any small beach town during its off-season. As a beach town enthusiast, I love it!
What truly brings this novel to life, though, is our protagonist Sidonie May “Sid” Jones. Sid has social anxiety, which immediately makes her relatable. But it also goes so much deeper than that. She shows quite a bit of reluctance to dive into helping a ghost who she accidentally summoned, showing more reason than a lot of fictional characters do. She’s very logical and finds ways to explain away everything she sees, even though the reader knows what’s really going on. She reacts to the story’s events in a way that any normal person would: with caution, skepticism, and denial. This makes it a lot easier to be on board with her journey and understand her motivations.
Told through Sid’s perspective, Dead Good Detectives has a fascinating narrative voice from the very start. As Sid and Zen play games together, the narrative glides seamlessly between reality and make-believe. There are a couple times where it’s hard to tell what’s real and what the kids are imagining, and I adored this choice. Blending reality and play brings such a youthful energy to the story, and it makes Sid feel like a real, relatable kid.
As for the plot itself, Lachlan does not disappoint in the slightest. In order to return Bones the ghost pirate to the dead, Sid has to help him complete his unfinished business: find his hidden treasure. Following Bones’ hand-drawn treasure map (shoutout to Chloe Dominique for all the adorable illustrations, by the way!) and other clues, Sid and Bones go on quite the journey to find the treasure before Bones fades. I’m a sucker for any book with a treasure/scavenger hunt of any kind, and this was no different. The whimsy of it all is utterly scrumptious, and it makes for a page-turning experience.
Dead Good Detectives is also so much more than just its lovable characters and whimsical story; it also explores several heartfelt, moving lessons. Throughout her journey, Sid learns how to embrace her quirks, be a good friend to her loved ones, and the value of selfless actions. Each lesson weaves seamlessly into the story without ever feeling preachy or cheesy, making them all the more impactful. I always love to see these types of values on display in media, and this novel does it so incredibly well.
I adore this novel to no end. It has the perfect blend of paranormal elements, relatable characters, and goofy humor that many readers will love. Especially if you’re a fan of ghosts or pirates, this novel will be a blast for you. And there’s a sequel! Dead Good Detectives has just the right amount of loose ends to make for a satisfying ending while keeping the reader itching for the next book.
So if you want a page-turning story to dive into, I highly recommend checking out this novel. If I had to describe it in just one word, it would be pure FUN!
Full review on my blog.
"I’m not really a school girl. I’m more of a graveyard girl.” -Jenny McLachlan, Dead Good Detectives
When I was roughly 8 years old, I went through a phase of reading every ghost book I could get my hands on. Ever since then, ghost stories have always held a special place in my heart, especially in middle grade fiction. So when I heard about Dead Good Detectives, which features not only ghosts but also pirates, witches, and a treasure hunt, you know it went on my TBR immediately.
The immersive, atmospheric setting immediately drew me into this story. Dead Good Detectives takes place in a dreary beach town brimming with personality. From local storeowners to quirky tourist attractions to the Pirate Day festivities, this town is like none other. It provides a perfect backdrop for all the antics that Sid and Zen get up to, and reading about this setting felt just like exploring any small beach town during its off-season. As a beach town enthusiast, I love it!
What truly brings this novel to life, though, is our protagonist Sidonie May “Sid” Jones. Sid has social anxiety, which immediately makes her relatable. But it also goes so much deeper than that. She shows quite a bit of reluctance to dive into helping a ghost who she accidentally summoned, showing more reason than a lot of fictional characters do. She’s very logical and finds ways to explain away everything she sees, even though the reader knows what’s really going on. She reacts to the story’s events in a way that any normal person would: with caution, skepticism, and denial. This makes it a lot easier to be on board with her journey and understand her motivations.
Told through Sid’s perspective, Dead Good Detectives has a fascinating narrative voice from the very start. As Sid and Zen play games together, the narrative glides seamlessly between reality and make-believe. There are a couple times where it’s hard to tell what’s real and what the kids are imagining, and I adored this choice. Blending reality and play brings such a youthful energy to the story, and it makes Sid feel like a real, relatable kid.
"Sometimes we must sail into a storm, no matter how scared we are.” -Jenny McLachlan, Dead Good Detectives
As for the plot itself, Lachlan does not disappoint in the slightest. In order to return Bones the ghost pirate to the dead, Sid has to help him complete his unfinished business: find his hidden treasure. Following Bones’ hand-drawn treasure map (shoutout to Chloe Dominique for all the adorable illustrations, by the way!) and other clues, Sid and Bones go on quite the journey to find the treasure before Bones fades. I’m a sucker for any book with a treasure/scavenger hunt of any kind, and this was no different. The whimsy of it all is utterly scrumptious, and it makes for a page-turning experience.
Dead Good Detectives is also so much more than just its lovable characters and whimsical story; it also explores several heartfelt, moving lessons. Throughout her journey, Sid learns how to embrace her quirks, be a good friend to her loved ones, and the value of selfless actions. Each lesson weaves seamlessly into the story without ever feeling preachy or cheesy, making them all the more impactful. I always love to see these types of values on display in media, and this novel does it so incredibly well.
I adore this novel to no end. It has the perfect blend of paranormal elements, relatable characters, and goofy humor that many readers will love. Especially if you’re a fan of ghosts or pirates, this novel will be a blast for you. And there’s a sequel! Dead Good Detectives has just the right amount of loose ends to make for a satisfying ending while keeping the reader itching for the next book.
So if you want a page-turning story to dive into, I highly recommend checking out this novel. If I had to describe it in just one word, it would be pure FUN!
Full review on my blog.
Read
July 14, 2024**Book Review: "Dead Good Detectives" by Jenny McLachlan**
Jenny McLachlan's "Dead Good Detectives" gives a lovely mixture of thriller, humor, and heartfelt storytelling, making it a compelling study for each teens and enthusiasts of detective fiction. Set in a sleepy beach city, the unconventional follows 12-12 months-antique Maisie and her pals as they come across a real-existence thriller involving missing earrings and a suspicious aged neighbor. McLachlan weaves together factors of friendship, own family dynamics, and newbie sleuthing into a narrative that continues readers engaged from begin to complete.
**Pros:**
1. **Engaging Plot:** The storyline is captivating, combining mystery with regular demanding situations faced with the aid of the characters.
2. **Well-developed Characters:** Maisie and her pals are relatable and endearing, every with their quirks and distinct personalities that add intensity to the narrative.
3. **Humor and Wit:** McLachlan injects humor into the communicate and situations, balancing the seriousness of the mystery with mild-hearted moments.
**Cons:**
1. **Predictability:** Some plot points may be predictable for pro thriller readers, but the appeal of the characters and writing style compensates for this.
2. **Pacing:** While typically nicely-paced, there are moments wherein the story slows down slightly, mainly inside the middle sections.
McLachlan's writing fashion is on the market and immersive, making "Dead Good Detectives" an exciting read for middle-grade audiences and beyond. The author efficaciously captures the essence of friendship and curiosity, making the unconventional now not most effective a mystery however also a story about growing up and coming across oneself.
Overall, "Dead Good Detectives" stands proud as a testomony to McLachlan's capacity to craft compelling narratives that resonate with readers of numerous a while. It's a e book that balances mystery with humor and coronary heart, making it a encouraged preference for absolutely everyone searching out an wonderful and mild-hearted study.
Jenny McLachlan's "Dead Good Detectives" gives a lovely mixture of thriller, humor, and heartfelt storytelling, making it a compelling study for each teens and enthusiasts of detective fiction. Set in a sleepy beach city, the unconventional follows 12-12 months-antique Maisie and her pals as they come across a real-existence thriller involving missing earrings and a suspicious aged neighbor. McLachlan weaves together factors of friendship, own family dynamics, and newbie sleuthing into a narrative that continues readers engaged from begin to complete.
**Pros:**
1. **Engaging Plot:** The storyline is captivating, combining mystery with regular demanding situations faced with the aid of the characters.
2. **Well-developed Characters:** Maisie and her pals are relatable and endearing, every with their quirks and distinct personalities that add intensity to the narrative.
3. **Humor and Wit:** McLachlan injects humor into the communicate and situations, balancing the seriousness of the mystery with mild-hearted moments.
**Cons:**
1. **Predictability:** Some plot points may be predictable for pro thriller readers, but the appeal of the characters and writing style compensates for this.
2. **Pacing:** While typically nicely-paced, there are moments wherein the story slows down slightly, mainly inside the middle sections.
McLachlan's writing fashion is on the market and immersive, making "Dead Good Detectives" an exciting read for middle-grade audiences and beyond. The author efficaciously captures the essence of friendship and curiosity, making the unconventional now not most effective a mystery however also a story about growing up and coming across oneself.
Overall, "Dead Good Detectives" stands proud as a testomony to McLachlan's capacity to craft compelling narratives that resonate with readers of numerous a while. It's a e book that balances mystery with humor and coronary heart, making it a encouraged preference for absolutely everyone searching out an wonderful and mild-hearted study.
June 25, 2024
Dead Good Detectives by Jenny McLachlan is a delightful romp through the supernatural that will charm middle-grade readers and beyond. The story follows Sid Jones, a spirited young girl with a penchant for hanging out in graveyards with her best friend Zen, hoping to encounter a ghost. McLachlan deftly sets the stage for a whimsical adventure when Sid accidentally summons a 300-year-old pirate, thrusting her into a world where ghosts abound and the unexpected is the norm. The author's imaginative premise hooks readers from the start, promising a tale filled with humor, heart, and a touch of spookiness.
As Sid navigates the eerie and enchanting Halfway House, a magical inn teeming with lost souls from various eras, McLachlan brings to life a vivid cast of spectral characters. Each ghost has a unique story, adding layers of intrigue and depth to the narrative. The central mystery—Sid's unexpected role in saving these ghosts from their sinister landlord—unfolds with a balance of suspense and lightheartedness. Sid's disbelief and reluctance to embrace her newfound responsibility add a relatable element to her character, making her journey all the more engaging. McLachlan's prose is lively and accessible, making it an excellent pick for young readers.
However, it's not all smooth sailing for Sid and her spectral friends. McLachlan introduces an ominous observer whose displeasure with Sid's ghostly interactions adds a layer of tension to the plot. The ticking clock motif effectively heightens the stakes, pushing Sid and Zen to race against time to uncover the inn's secrets and free the trapped spirits. While some plot points may feel predictable to seasoned readers, the book's charm lies in its ability to weave humor and warmth into a ghostly adventure. Dead Good Detectives is a thoroughly enjoyable read, earning a well-deserved four stars for its engaging storytelling, memorable characters, and the delightful blend of the spooky and the whimsical.
As Sid navigates the eerie and enchanting Halfway House, a magical inn teeming with lost souls from various eras, McLachlan brings to life a vivid cast of spectral characters. Each ghost has a unique story, adding layers of intrigue and depth to the narrative. The central mystery—Sid's unexpected role in saving these ghosts from their sinister landlord—unfolds with a balance of suspense and lightheartedness. Sid's disbelief and reluctance to embrace her newfound responsibility add a relatable element to her character, making her journey all the more engaging. McLachlan's prose is lively and accessible, making it an excellent pick for young readers.
However, it's not all smooth sailing for Sid and her spectral friends. McLachlan introduces an ominous observer whose displeasure with Sid's ghostly interactions adds a layer of tension to the plot. The ticking clock motif effectively heightens the stakes, pushing Sid and Zen to race against time to uncover the inn's secrets and free the trapped spirits. While some plot points may feel predictable to seasoned readers, the book's charm lies in its ability to weave humor and warmth into a ghostly adventure. Dead Good Detectives is a thoroughly enjoyable read, earning a well-deserved four stars for its engaging storytelling, memorable characters, and the delightful blend of the spooky and the whimsical.
August 10, 2023
I know this is aimed at the 8+ audience but I enjoyed this book so much!
It is full of fun, excitement and mystery. There are pirates and ghosts, an evil innkeeper with his dog and two best friends who try and help save the day, solving clues and finding the treasure.
I loved all of the characters.
Sid and Zen have been friends forever but being different, they are often picked on at school. Sid is trying to fit in more and pulls away from Zen but soon discovers that being different makes you unique and that friendship means everything!
Bones, a 300 year old pirate ghost set free from the halfway house, enlists Sid to help him so that he doesn't turn into a wraith.
I loved the relationship that developed between Sid and Bones, going from fear to denial, changing gradually as they got to know each other to form a firm friendship.
There was a great sense of fun and humour throughout even though the plot had some more creepy elements.
Although Bones was a ghost, he was such a great character that you couldn't help love him.
The scary, evil innkeeper injected that bit of tension which kept us on our toes - but the great banter always relieved this.
The story was interesting and intriguing and although a longer read, it never felt boring or that there wasn't much happening.
The narrator was brilliant. They really conveyed the atmosphere of the story well - making sure all the characters personalities were both displayed and easily recognised.
This was a nice and easy read for someone my age - but equally, I think that it would be a great read for the younger readers too.
The chapters are nice and short which means it's easy to put down - easy to get a few chapters read before tea or bedtime or bigger chunks during library time or at leisure.
I loved this so much I'm keen to get hold of book 2 to continue Sid and Zen's story.
It is full of fun, excitement and mystery. There are pirates and ghosts, an evil innkeeper with his dog and two best friends who try and help save the day, solving clues and finding the treasure.
I loved all of the characters.
Sid and Zen have been friends forever but being different, they are often picked on at school. Sid is trying to fit in more and pulls away from Zen but soon discovers that being different makes you unique and that friendship means everything!
Bones, a 300 year old pirate ghost set free from the halfway house, enlists Sid to help him so that he doesn't turn into a wraith.
I loved the relationship that developed between Sid and Bones, going from fear to denial, changing gradually as they got to know each other to form a firm friendship.
There was a great sense of fun and humour throughout even though the plot had some more creepy elements.
Although Bones was a ghost, he was such a great character that you couldn't help love him.
The scary, evil innkeeper injected that bit of tension which kept us on our toes - but the great banter always relieved this.
The story was interesting and intriguing and although a longer read, it never felt boring or that there wasn't much happening.
The narrator was brilliant. They really conveyed the atmosphere of the story well - making sure all the characters personalities were both displayed and easily recognised.
This was a nice and easy read for someone my age - but equally, I think that it would be a great read for the younger readers too.
The chapters are nice and short which means it's easy to put down - easy to get a few chapters read before tea or bedtime or bigger chunks during library time or at leisure.
I loved this so much I'm keen to get hold of book 2 to continue Sid and Zen's story.
July 20, 2022
This book! It was an absolute joy, from first page to last. Sid Jones, our intrepid protagonist, and her best mate Zen, like to hang around in graveyards (as you do - or, at least, as *I* do) looking for ghosts. The action begins when Sid accidentally releases the spirit of a long-dead pirate from his restless slumber - a pirate who has spent the past three hundred years trapped in a Halfway House, along with many other souls, under the nefarious control of a mysterious, terrifying figure known as Old Scratch...
As Sid gets used to having Bones (the pirate) and Elizabeth (his foul-mouthed, hilarious parrot) in her life - a pirate and a parrot only Sid can hear and see, which adds to the fun for the reader - she must work to get to the bottom of the mystery of why Bones is trapped, and how to free him and his crew from an eternity of captivity. But Old Scratch isn't going to let go of his trove of souls that easily!
This book is stupendous. Jenny McLachlan has such a lightness of touch - everything she writes is compelling, clipping along at such pace that her books are literally unputdownable (I had to have this book within grabbing distance at all times while I was reading it). Dead Good Detectives bursts with heart, fun, hilarity, and fantastic characters and dialogue at the same time as being incredibly well-plotted and nicely spooky. I adored Jenny's Roar books and this new story, the beginning of a new series, is just as excellent. I'm indebted to her and her publisher for my gifted copy, but I'll certainly be purchasing several copies of this excellent story to gift to the young readers in my life!
As Sid gets used to having Bones (the pirate) and Elizabeth (his foul-mouthed, hilarious parrot) in her life - a pirate and a parrot only Sid can hear and see, which adds to the fun for the reader - she must work to get to the bottom of the mystery of why Bones is trapped, and how to free him and his crew from an eternity of captivity. But Old Scratch isn't going to let go of his trove of souls that easily!
This book is stupendous. Jenny McLachlan has such a lightness of touch - everything she writes is compelling, clipping along at such pace that her books are literally unputdownable (I had to have this book within grabbing distance at all times while I was reading it). Dead Good Detectives bursts with heart, fun, hilarity, and fantastic characters and dialogue at the same time as being incredibly well-plotted and nicely spooky. I adored Jenny's Roar books and this new story, the beginning of a new series, is just as excellent. I'm indebted to her and her publisher for my gifted copy, but I'll certainly be purchasing several copies of this excellent story to gift to the young readers in my life!
February 8, 2024
5 plus
Are you WEIRD? If being weird means going on adventure, being curious, enjoying life, questioning things, and wanting to learn without being afraid of making mistakes or minding what others may think, then I want to be weird too. I love that Zen tells us weird (before) meant that it was someone who controls fate.
From the author of Land of Roar comes a fantastic and exciting treasure hunt adventure, a beautifully illustrated standalone that could also become an amazing series.
Sid (Sidonie) is becoming more shy and isolated, afraid of taking chances. She misses her mom who died when she was a baby, and can't stand up to bullies in school. Her best friend Zen (Zennor) is proudly weird but Sid doesn't want to be in the spotlight, she cares what others think. She prefers to spend time in the graveyard, drawing her map of Fathom (a town on the coast of east England) ... when, without knowing (her power) she releases a three-hundred-year-old ghost from his curse. This pirate is Captain Bones (Ezekiel Kittow) of the Black Gannett.
What I love the most is that Sid accepts to help the pirate break the curse by promising to find his treasure. He is not the only soul trapped by the eerie Old Scratch who starts hunting Sid down as well.
So much detail and creativity that makes the story so much fun to read. I couldn't put it down.
Sid grows so much. The quest not only helps her to come out of her shell and stand up for her beliefs, but she also connects with her late mom, recovers her friendship with Zen, and grows in the community.
I loved this adventure of pirates, ghosts, treasure maps, sunken ships, the Pirate Day celebration, the parade, and her father's miniature model city. Adding Zen's Museum of Curiosities, the treasure hunt, Elizabeth the Parrot, dressing up as a pirate, and playing games in a friendly competition.
thank you publisher for the e-arc.
Are you WEIRD? If being weird means going on adventure, being curious, enjoying life, questioning things, and wanting to learn without being afraid of making mistakes or minding what others may think, then I want to be weird too. I love that Zen tells us weird (before) meant that it was someone who controls fate.
From the author of Land of Roar comes a fantastic and exciting treasure hunt adventure, a beautifully illustrated standalone that could also become an amazing series.
Sid (Sidonie) is becoming more shy and isolated, afraid of taking chances. She misses her mom who died when she was a baby, and can't stand up to bullies in school. Her best friend Zen (Zennor) is proudly weird but Sid doesn't want to be in the spotlight, she cares what others think. She prefers to spend time in the graveyard, drawing her map of Fathom (a town on the coast of east England) ... when, without knowing (her power) she releases a three-hundred-year-old ghost from his curse. This pirate is Captain Bones (Ezekiel Kittow) of the Black Gannett.
What I love the most is that Sid accepts to help the pirate break the curse by promising to find his treasure. He is not the only soul trapped by the eerie Old Scratch who starts hunting Sid down as well.
So much detail and creativity that makes the story so much fun to read. I couldn't put it down.
Sid grows so much. The quest not only helps her to come out of her shell and stand up for her beliefs, but she also connects with her late mom, recovers her friendship with Zen, and grows in the community.
I loved this adventure of pirates, ghosts, treasure maps, sunken ships, the Pirate Day celebration, the parade, and her father's miniature model city. Adding Zen's Museum of Curiosities, the treasure hunt, Elizabeth the Parrot, dressing up as a pirate, and playing games in a friendly competition.
thank you publisher for the e-arc.
June 17, 2024
trigger warning
When Sid is being haunted by the ghost of a pirate, there seems to be only one way to get her life back: Find the treasure.
Sid lives with her father, who owns and operates the miniature village, and enjoys playing with her best friend Zen on the graveyard. Somehow them playing matches what is needed to set one of the captive ghosts free, and the giant pirate captain demands that Sid helps him find the treasure. He has a map, but his memory has gotten rusty after 300 years of being dead.
I had trouble with Sid not trusting her best friend for so long, and how she went steps to telling the truth, but that may just my adult brain nitpicking where a reader in the target audience will be totally fine with it.
I also saw the ending coming but, uhm, yeah. Again, not target audience, and where I have read hundreds of books the children this is intended for probably won't.
I like that while the task they set out to do, there is potential for more. The reader can decide whether they want more - and I for sure would be interested to learn more about how this world works.
Would recommend for young readers who like tales of friendship, and treasure hunts.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
When Sid is being haunted by the ghost of a pirate, there seems to be only one way to get her life back: Find the treasure.
Sid lives with her father, who owns and operates the miniature village, and enjoys playing with her best friend Zen on the graveyard. Somehow them playing matches what is needed to set one of the captive ghosts free, and the giant pirate captain demands that Sid helps him find the treasure. He has a map, but his memory has gotten rusty after 300 years of being dead.
I had trouble with Sid not trusting her best friend for so long, and how she went steps to telling the truth, but that may just my adult brain nitpicking where a reader in the target audience will be totally fine with it.
I also saw the ending coming but, uhm, yeah. Again, not target audience, and where I have read hundreds of books the children this is intended for probably won't.
I like that while the task they set out to do, there is potential for more. The reader can decide whether they want more - and I for sure would be interested to learn more about how this world works.
Would recommend for young readers who like tales of friendship, and treasure hunts.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
October 5, 2024
Dead Good Detectives by Jenny McLachlan takes place in coastal Great Britain.
Twelve-year old Sid Jones and her friend Zen like to play in the graveyard in the village of Fathom, a tourist destination that celebrates pirates. While Sid’s mom is buried in the graveyard, it is a source of joy and play for the two children until Ezekiel Kittow (1678-1721) reveals himself to Sid. Ezekiel, also known as Bones, is a ghost with a ghost macaw Elizabeth. Bones has been released from the Halfway House, halfway between here and there. Before he fades away, he wants Sid to help him find his treasure. Sid and Zen are weird kids. Zen embraces his weirdness, but Owen has bullied Sid into believing her weirdness is a negative. Sid doesn’t share the quest for treasure and her troubling involvement with a ghost with Zen for two-thirds of the book—probably just dramatic tension. Finally, they join in the quest for the treasure and find it.
It is a book about pirates and ghosts filled with lots of twists and turns and adventure. The very minor negative about the book is that page numbers are in a spider and hard to read.
I recommend the book for purchase for girls between fourth and seventh grades.
C.S.
Retired Teacher
Twelve-year old Sid Jones and her friend Zen like to play in the graveyard in the village of Fathom, a tourist destination that celebrates pirates. While Sid’s mom is buried in the graveyard, it is a source of joy and play for the two children until Ezekiel Kittow (1678-1721) reveals himself to Sid. Ezekiel, also known as Bones, is a ghost with a ghost macaw Elizabeth. Bones has been released from the Halfway House, halfway between here and there. Before he fades away, he wants Sid to help him find his treasure. Sid and Zen are weird kids. Zen embraces his weirdness, but Owen has bullied Sid into believing her weirdness is a negative. Sid doesn’t share the quest for treasure and her troubling involvement with a ghost with Zen for two-thirds of the book—probably just dramatic tension. Finally, they join in the quest for the treasure and find it.
It is a book about pirates and ghosts filled with lots of twists and turns and adventure. The very minor negative about the book is that page numbers are in a spider and hard to read.
I recommend the book for purchase for girls between fourth and seventh grades.
C.S.
Retired Teacher
August 4, 2023
This is definitely a wholesome book. It was so lovely! We follow Sid’s adventure as she navigates a world of ghosts, magic and treasure, and not to mention, a parrot with a potty mouth!
We meet partner in crime Zen, Bones the 300 year old pirate ghost and his trusty parrot Elizabeth. She’s on a race against time to save Bones before he disappears completely and must help him in his quest to finish his unfinished business. The story drew me in immediately and was fantastically written.
It’s a perfect children’s book and as an adult, a thoroughly enjoyable read too! Well, listen in my case as the audiobook provided all the entertainment for the format of this book. I’d thoroughly recommend the audiobook but can imagine the physical copy is an equally great format as it comes accompanied with illustrations.
Great book with great characters, a wonderful story and a lovely ending. A really enjoyable read!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this audiobook on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
We meet partner in crime Zen, Bones the 300 year old pirate ghost and his trusty parrot Elizabeth. She’s on a race against time to save Bones before he disappears completely and must help him in his quest to finish his unfinished business. The story drew me in immediately and was fantastically written.
It’s a perfect children’s book and as an adult, a thoroughly enjoyable read too! Well, listen in my case as the audiobook provided all the entertainment for the format of this book. I’d thoroughly recommend the audiobook but can imagine the physical copy is an equally great format as it comes accompanied with illustrations.
Great book with great characters, a wonderful story and a lovely ending. A really enjoyable read!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this audiobook on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
July 17, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️
After a night in the graveyard with her friend Zen, Sid realizes she has accidentally released a pirate ghost. After realizing he is pretty friendly, she agrees to help him find his treasure so that he can move on.
This was fun debut to what seems like it will be a series! I think it started a little slow but once Sid began helping Bones, it really picked up. The illustrations throughout were really cute, but there were a few times I wish we had an illustration for something that didn’t have one. Despite that, a fun middle grades read!
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
After a night in the graveyard with her friend Zen, Sid realizes she has accidentally released a pirate ghost. After realizing he is pretty friendly, she agrees to help him find his treasure so that he can move on.
This was fun debut to what seems like it will be a series! I think it started a little slow but once Sid began helping Bones, it really picked up. The illustrations throughout were really cute, but there were a few times I wish we had an illustration for something that didn’t have one. Despite that, a fun middle grades read!
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 17, 2023
I have always wanted to read this as big fan of Jenny McLachlan and the Roar series as well as Stink. The narrator for this audiobook version was absolutely fantastic and really brought the characters to life, with each one having their own clear "voice". Loved the short chapters leaving us on cliffhangers wanting to read the next one and as Sid and Zen solve this mystery they realise there are many more trapped souls to help and solve their mysteries thereby creating the Dead Good Detectives. Great for anyone who loves an adventure detective mystery with lots of humour and a few ghosts!!
August 24, 2024
This is the first book in a ghostly detective series. Sid and Zen team up with Bones, a ghost pirate, to help him find his treasure. There are obstacles, both physical and ghostly, that get in their way. Even when there are disagreements the team work to help Bones. I hope future books delve more into Sid's family dynamics and that Zen becomes are fuller character. But overall I really liked this one.
August 17, 2023
A great adventure with ghosts, pirates, treasure hunting and an extremely creepy antagonist. I really didn't expect to have tears but some parts were so touching and heart-warming I couldn't help myself. I really liked the narrator too, great voices for all the characters.
I'm in luck because book 2, Ghost Rescue has just come out!
I'm in luck because book 2, Ghost Rescue has just come out!
March 22, 2024
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Interesting, very British ghost story that also involves PIRATES. Great for elementary students who want to hang out in cemetaries with their best friends and chase ghosts. Another Teo Skaffa cover, but with a different interior illustrator, to the best of my knowledge.
Interesting, very British ghost story that also involves PIRATES. Great for elementary students who want to hang out in cemetaries with their best friends and chase ghosts. Another Teo Skaffa cover, but with a different interior illustrator, to the best of my knowledge.
February 28, 2025
🦜
Let's get to the review! I loved these books! Loved loved loved! Sid Jones is a school girl with her friend Zen, who is unapologetically himself, and they hang out in graveyards. Sid also has a handmade map of Fathom, where they live, that she keeps adding too, and when she comes across a grave she's yet to add, she somehow releases the pirate ghost of the grave, and his parot, Elizabeth, and must help him solve his unfinished business , before he can pass across to the otherside.
🦜
Of course, it's not always smooth sailing, no one else can see the ghost, (spoiler, yet!) and Sid has to somehow work out his problems, be best friends with Zen, help her dad out at the model village, get her school work done, talk to the other ghosts stuck in the Timeless Tavern, and of course, avoid Old Scratch, who is keeping the other ghosts hostage. Phew!
🦜
As I said, i read book one, I immediately started book two, and I was obsessed! The writing was easy to get lost in. The story was fun, and the illustrations were magnificent. The only fault is that there are only two books in this series 😟
🦜
If you like middle-grade adventure books,I'm sure you'll love these. From the same author, is the Roar books. I have yet to read them, but they will be added to my wishlist!
🦜
Let's get to the review! I loved these books! Loved loved loved! Sid Jones is a school girl with her friend Zen, who is unapologetically himself, and they hang out in graveyards. Sid also has a handmade map of Fathom, where they live, that she keeps adding too, and when she comes across a grave she's yet to add, she somehow releases the pirate ghost of the grave, and his parot, Elizabeth, and must help him solve his unfinished business , before he can pass across to the otherside.
🦜
Of course, it's not always smooth sailing, no one else can see the ghost, (spoiler, yet!) and Sid has to somehow work out his problems, be best friends with Zen, help her dad out at the model village, get her school work done, talk to the other ghosts stuck in the Timeless Tavern, and of course, avoid Old Scratch, who is keeping the other ghosts hostage. Phew!
🦜
As I said, i read book one, I immediately started book two, and I was obsessed! The writing was easy to get lost in. The story was fun, and the illustrations were magnificent. The only fault is that there are only two books in this series 😟
🦜
If you like middle-grade adventure books,I'm sure you'll love these. From the same author, is the Roar books. I have yet to read them, but they will be added to my wishlist!
🦜
July 11, 2025
🏴☠️ 4 stars! 🏴☠️
What a jolly good time with fun illustrations to immerse yourself in Sid's adventures in her small town of Fathom. After Sid, a girl who loves hanging out in the graveyard with her best friend Zen, accidentally releases a pirate ghost, her quiet life is now full of ghosts, treasure hunting, and souls trapped by a sinister landlord, rather than imaginative tales.
What a jolly good time with fun illustrations to immerse yourself in Sid's adventures in her small town of Fathom. After Sid, a girl who loves hanging out in the graveyard with her best friend Zen, accidentally releases a pirate ghost, her quiet life is now full of ghosts, treasure hunting, and souls trapped by a sinister landlord, rather than imaginative tales.
September 13, 2025
A friendly ghost story tho there is one scary character called scratch and whilst they never elaborate what he is they do firmly state he is not a ghost. Other then being a mystery ghost story this is also a story of a girl learning to have the courage to accept herself and her friends as they are and stand up for herself which I love
July 24, 2022
What a lovely story. It could have been just a generic ghost story, but the writing style and the utterly charming characters (especially Zen!) & lovely little treasure hunt made it worthwhile. Enjoyed this so much!
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