The Ghost Rules

by Adam Rosenbaum, Matt Godfrey (Narrator)

Twelve-year-old Elwood McGee never asked to have “ghost-sight,” and it involves a lot more drool-dodging than he expected. Ghosts are the WORST—and they're all over the place in this sharp-witted middle grade debut novel.

Did you know that ghosts love coffee? They’re not trying to be scary. They’re just deprived of an appropriate amount of caffeine! They also bump into things by accident, are occasionally nosy, and get a little nervous when they’re seen by the living.

Elwood McGee knows these ghost facts because he’s one of those rare people with the gift of ghost-sight. And it turns out ghosts are everywhere! Especially in the small Tennessee town where Elwood and his family had to move following the death of his big brother Noah, which Elwood thinks was his fault.

Once Elwood figures out he can see ghosts, he becomes single-mindedly determined to use his powers to see Noah and talk to him one last time. With the help of two girls who live on his street, Elwood embarks on a journey through the surprisingly funny world of ghosts and faces the realities of letting go.

At once hilarious and heart-wrenching, Adam Rosenbaum makes his middle grade debut with a supernaturalish novel about grief that’s perfect for fans of Gordon Korman and Dan Gutman.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

Genres: Middle Grade, Fantasy, Audiobook, Supernatural, Grief

Audible Audio

First published August 13, 2024

Reviews

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

As if moving to a new town and trying to cope with the death of his older brother aren’t enough, Elwood is suddenly seeing ghosts…everywhere! But where is the one ghost he’d really like to see? Lots of laughter and some tears in this story.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me feel warm inside. It was nostalgic and clever and felt like you were reading something from a kid in the best way. I want more books like this. I want to give Elwood a big big hug. He was just sooo precious.

Elwood’s brother died a few months before and before that his grandfather died. His family moves to a new town where he meets two girls, Tabitha and Sydney who take him under his wings but during this he also finds out he can see ghosts and talk to them.

Elwood decided to go on an adventure filled with grief, heartbreak, friendship and more to figure out how to heal

Also I loved the narrator for this book, he did the voices perfectly. His grandpa voice was absolutely perfect and I could tell who each character was.

Thank you NetGalley, Adam Rosenbaum and the publisher for the arc of this book, I think it changed my life 😍

[Jarod Hunter Roe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well told story with a ton of heart. Written in a spot on voice for a twelve year old. Really well done

[Lauren Pilny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five resounding stars. A masterful book about grief, disguised as a funny book about ghosts. The writing was just perfect. I don’t dapple in middle grade so I wasn’t sure what to expect - but this was a page turner that I read in 2 days. I loved it so much and can’t wait to read with wilder one day!

[Ashley Gavin Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a middle grade novel with a ton of heart. It has a fun plot but deals with grief in a tender way. Seems like a book 11-15 year olds would love this but as an adult I loved it too! Audiobook was awesome. Highly recommend that too as each character had a distinct voice. Narrator did a perfect 12 year old boy voice!

[YSBR · Rating 4 out of 5]

After the tragic death of his older brother Noah, Elwood McGee is not happy that his parents have decided to sell their family house in Nashville and move to Mom’s childhood home in the rural Tennessee town of Long Hollow. As they start to settle in, Elwood quickly makes friends with two girls his age: kind Tabitha, who lives next door, and her energetic best friend Sydney. But Elwood also makes the acquaintance of his estranged grandfather, Pops, who died a year or so ago.  It seems that Elwood has developed ‘ghost sight,’ and everywhere he goes he sees ghosts in various stages of vanishing.  The spectral Pops explains the ‘ghost rules’ to him - that when you die you have a choice to just move on and maintain your happy memories, or stay on earth in your home but slowly lose your memories.  Elwood becomes convinced that Noah’s ghost is still in their house in Nashville, and he wants to go back to see him one more time before the new owners move in.  He knows his parents won’t help; his mom is dealing with the loss of her firstborn son by being increasingly overprotective of her younger one, and his dad doesn’t want to talk about Noah at all, and frequently tunes Elwood out.  So he tries to recruit his new friends - including Pops - to help him get back to Nashville, but they all think it’s a bad idea.  Undeterred, Elwood finds a way to get there, and what he learns in his old home leads to a way forward in his new one.     

With a spooky title and cartoonish cover illustration, readers might be surprised that The Ghost Rules is much more of a poignant family story about dealing with grief and moving forward after a terrible loss than a comedic ghost story; the supernatural aspect, although prominent, seems secondary to the human drama playing out.  Debut author Rosenbaum does a nice job depicting the realistic emotions and reactions of the McGee family while weaving in humor (especially in the budding friendship between Elmer and Sydney, and the conversations between Elmer and Pops) and slightly spooky elements.  Subplots about the secondary characters add depth to the plot and interest in the small town setting: Elmer and Sydney are very concerned about Tabitha’s tumultuous home life with an abusive father; Sydney is obsessed with old horror movies and is mounting a campaign to save the town’s old movie theater; and there’s a red herring involving a local Civil War buff.  In different ways, Elmer’s ghost-sight is instrumental in solving these problems, and by book’s end he seems to appreciate his newfound ability. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...

[Mary Hanna Wilson | Celebrate a Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elwood McGee has just moved to town and is trying to adjust to his family's "new normal," which means adapting to life without his older brother, who died recently. Elwood's mom doesn't want him to leave her sight, and his dad avoids the topic of his brother, leaving Elwood trying to navigate grief and loneliness on his own. Fortunately, he won't be lonely for long because he is about to meet two friends on his street and many ghosts, including his grumpy grandfather.

This was a fun, creative story about one family's journey to heal their grief.

The story begins with simple rules Elwood has learned about ghosts now that he can see them. I'll be honest, while funny, the start of the story wasn't an immediate hook for me. I needed a little time to adjust to the casual flow of the narration. Once I found my rhythm, I was excited to keep reading. Elwood is a likable narrator who is humorous and honest in his storytelling.

When Elwood learns he can communicate with ghosts, he becomes determined to visit his brother's ghost. However, it's not as simple as it seems to Elwood. His parents don't plan to visit their old house or neighborhood, so he will have to find his own way.

But that isn't Elwood's only adventure in the story. His newly acquired ghost sight enables him to help a friend on her journey to save a historic theater in the town so investors don't buy it. After all, Elwood enlists the help of the ghosts who haunt the theater!

Ultimately, this is a story of healing. It isn't scary even though there are ghosts, but parents should know it is sad. Elwood's older brother died before the book begins, but eventually, Elwood talks about that day. In the end, Elwood will face the guilt and grief he feels. There are plenty of lighthearted moments and adventures along the way, but the overall story might be challenging for sensitive readers. (details below)


SPOILERS*****HEADS UP FOR SENSITIVE READERS

At some point in the story, the way Elwood's brother died is explained. He fell off a ledge at a waterfall while trying to pull his girlfriend back up after she slipped. Elwood was present at the picnic and hike. It might be hard for sensitive readers to read about this.

[✧ Beanie Reads ✧ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you netgalley and the publisher for this audiobook ARC!
4 stars

I'm not sure this book is anything new, or that it's the best MG to do what it does, but man, did it land regardless, and it even choked me up at times. I think it's in part because of a very solid audiobook narrator. Matt Godfrey took a bit to grow on me, but then I loved his voice.

The ghosts are a great tool to strengthen what is truly a story about grief. There were other side struggles with the two girls of the story (hard home life + racial elements), but they were more base level IN TERMS FO HANDLING. It makes me wonder if they'd be tackled more in another book. Not that there wasn't any handling of it this book, and if it never goes further than it did, I think that's okay.

Either way, this was a very enjoyable read with characters that felt cared for (well, not always by their parents...). This story felt like it came from a true place of heart, and it showed throughout, whether it be through Elwood's pain or those around him. There were multiple heartfelt moments and good lessons for people, regardless of age. The ending didn't wrap everything up, but it was another instance of not needing to. Sometimes there's strings left hanging, and we may never get to see El follow them or the outcome. But I can honestly say I'd be happy to see more from this world. It's nothing super amazing or special, but I will always want to see more from a tale that obviously has love put into it.

[BookstrovertReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ghost Rules by Adam Rosenbaum does an amazing job dealing with grief with unique characters.

I like how Rosenbaum lets the grief speak for itself, aka, the ghosts talking to our main character Elwood. It's such a smart way to teach kids about dealing with grief.

I also like how each character has its individual personality that lends to the plot. The characters push the story forward, creating the plot points based off of pure emotion.

Lastly, The Ghost Rules is hilarious. Elwood has such a funny voice, constantly cracking sarcastic jokes that make you chuckle. In my favorite line Elwood references the dead ghosts in a sarcastically witty line about wanting to stay on earth after you die plus forget all your memories in the process: "You could be thinking. 'wait, so I can stick around forever AND forget all the bad stuff that ever happened to me? Sign me up!' Well hold your (dead) horses."

Overall this book is witty, funny, and a great way to introduce the process of grief. 5/5 stars for sure.

[Farah G · Rating 4 out of 5]

A protagonist the reader will immediately identify with, 12 year old Elwood is struggling with the unexpected loss of his older brother Noah, and his family's sudden move to the one horse town where his estranged grandfather once lived, to "start over".

Removed from his friends, his home and everything that is familiar to him Elwood is resentful, and less than inclined to make friends with the two girls he unexpectedly meets in their new town - even if one of them did save him from the town's miniature hounds of hell on a rather embarrassing occasion!

But life becomes even more complicated when Elwood realises that he has the ability to talk to ghosts, and (once he has grasped the significance of that) becomes desperate to return to their original home in order to find out if Noah is still there in ghost form...

A funny, touching and immensely enjoyable story that will be perfect for any middle grade reader, and a quite a few grown ups too.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[Emma Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I originally got this book for my child who read it the same day we received it! I am happy to report that my kid says, "this book was awesome!" This is coming from a kid who does no particularly enjoy chapter books that don't have artwork throughout.

From an adults perspective, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. There are a lot cute puns in this books and it definitely made me chuckle out loud on several occasions. It's a good, fun and clean book! I think it introduces losing a loved one and essentially tells you that even though your loved one may be departed and you cannot see them, they are still with you in spirit.

I would absolutely love to see this book become a long lasting series and possibly even a movie or TV series! Congratulations Adam on publishing your first book! I hope to see more!

[Ande Davidson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ghost Rules is a funny and heartbreaking middle grade novel about a boy who gains the ability to see ghosts while processing the grief of the recent loss of his brother. I loved so much about this book. It had a great amount of levity and the descriptions of the ghosts were fantastic. I also loved Elwood as a main character and his 2 best friends. They all had unique voices, and there was a great side plot with the 3 trying to save a local theater.

I listened to an advance copy of the audiobook, and the narrator was fantastic. He did a great job giving each character life and adding fun sound effects to the reading. Content that would have been very heavy, was lifted by his tone.

Thanks to NetGalley, Adam Rosenbaum, and Dreamscape Media for the chance to read and review! My opinions are my own.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unbroken is an action-packed, emotional rollercoaster that keeps you on the edge of your seat! Our girl, the Nephilim-Witch-Warrior powerhouse, has literally died, but she’s back—stronger than ever. The stakes couldn’t be higher as she's tasked with saving the world, no pressure, right? God himself says it’s her job to set things right, and if she fails, well, let’s just say no one is walking away alive.
The tension builds with every page as our heroine navigates shocking twists about her Tethers, the future of the Academy, and her role as a reluctant leader in an impending war. The pressure to protect her loved ones pushes her to harness every ounce of power she has, from her magic to her warrior skills. Thankfully, she’s not alone—her mates and Tethers have her back, adding a layer of heart and depth to this already intense adventure.
#TheGhostRules #NetGalley

[Debra Gaynor · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ghost Rules
Adam Rosenbaum
Genre: Middle School Fiction
Elwood McGee blames himself for the death of his big brother. He lost both his brother and grandfather in a very short time. He and his family moved to a small town in Tennessee after his big brother Noah’s death. When Elwood discovers he can see and communicate with ghosts he wants to use his gift to see and talk to Noah. After moving he meets Tabitha and Sydney who befriend him.
The characters in this book are precious, especially Elwood. My heart ached for him as he grieved and slowly healed. This book is written with great humor. The ghosts are cracking satirical funny jokes. This is an excellent tale to assist kids in dealing with death.
Thank you NetGalley for the review copy.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to this middle grade audiobook because I heard about it on the Parnassus Books Laydown Diaries (both promoted as an author event and a new release). I then was lucky to get an ARC from NetGalley but also saw it pop available through Libby. I enjoy the premise that 12-year old Elwood suddenly is able to see ghosts in the setting of his brother’s recent death and his family’s relocation to their ancestral home. This book has humor but also some pretty heavy emotions which makes for a very nice, rich blend of content for the young reader. I thought this book was interesting and entertaining. It may not end quite how the reader hopes or expects, but it’s still a satisfying and endearing journey. The narration by Matt Godfrey was great!

[Caroline DuBois · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved The Ghost Rules by Adam Rosenbaum. Looking for an October—or anytime—read? This fantastic and phantasmagoric middle grade novel with equal doses of humor and heart delivers big time. But it's more than a good ghost story. It's a tale about standing out and standing up, as main character Elwood McGee copes with heartbreaking loss and a difficult move to a new town at an important time in his life. Oh, and there are also talking ghosts, blueberry doughnuts, a sweet dog, and just-right friendship in this story. What more could you want!? I'd definitely recommend it for young readers (3rd through 8th grade) and young at heart readers. It had me laughing and crying. It’s a great one to add to your TBR list and to any holiday wish list.

[Kat Ice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I was looking for a new audio book to read but I wanted it to fit into the "Fall/Spooky" vibes I am in currently and this was perfect!! This is a kids book about a boy who can see ghosts. That was all I needed to know. It was super cute plot that really kept me going throughout the whole story. It really helped that the narrator was one of the best I've ever heard! He really put his heart into this story. It was nice to have a little heartfelt moment too. Most kids books these days are just fun or leave you with nothing much but this one really hit the heart! I loved it! This is a must read for kids and adults alike.

[Therearenobadbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great and creative take on a ghost story with humor but also grief. The loss of his brother wounded the family deeply and they are grieving in their own way but it doesn't help Elwood his Dad pretends nothing happened and his mother lives in fear something will happen to her youngest child. They move to her father's house, and Elwood discovers he can see ghosts. There is also a haunted theatre to be saved from being turned into a bank and two new friends who are going to support him. I love the story of grandparents and their grandchildren helping each other with their problems and getting to a better place. I truly hope there will be more of these characters in future projects. 

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a lot of fun! There were humorous moments which added the right amount of levity to a very serious and sad subject that kids, unfortunately, inevitably have to deal with in one form or another. Rosenbaum explores how different people navigate grief and eventually find the one right way for them to process it. I loved the characters, both alive and no longer with us, and laughed along with so many of the jokes and funny stories thrown in.

I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.

[CONSTANCE · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twelve yo Elwood McGee never asked to have ghost seeing abilities, but ghosts suddenly begin appearing to him after the death of his older brother when his family moves to a new town into a house that belonged to his grandfather. He makes a couple friends and he tries very hard to keep his new ability from them, but inevitably things happen that make it quite clear he can see ghosts – one of which is his grandfather. With some very funny scenes as well as some touching ones relating to his desire to reach his brother’s ghost, Mr. Rosenbaum’s debut novel gets a 👍

[LS Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really creative way for talking about grief. Elwood's whole family misses Noah since his accidental death. Each of them is dealing with it in a different way. When Elwood realizes he can see ghosts, he wants to get back to his old house because he is sure Noah is there and Elwood will be able to speak with him, and apologize to him. Along the way Elwood finds friends, both living and ghostly, who help him with his grief. The book is also quite humorous, which is a good balance to the angst that Elwood feels for most of the story.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Still grieving his dead older brother, Elwood McGee discovers he has the gift of ghost-sight and goes on a quest to find his brother's ghost in order to have a last goodbye. In the end he helps a different family member move on and learns about one of the family secrets he's now a part of. This was a heartfelt middle grade debut that was good on audio and highly recommended for fans of authors like Gordon Korman or Brenna Thummler's Sheets trilogy. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!

[Bozhena Levine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the electronic audio review copy of this book. This is a wonderful ghost story about dealing with grief with a side of humor. Great, well-written characters, wonderful voice, and funny jokes that made me chuckle. Such a great first book by the new author! Looking forward to his next book.

[Andy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! Such depth of character from this debut author. So funny and real and gut-wrenching and tense and thoroughly enjoyable.

And just wait until you get to chapter 10!! One of the best chapters I've ever read in any book across all genres and age groups.

[Ellen Verhaagen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such a fun read! I cannot believe this is Adam Rosenbaum’s first novel! The Ghost Rules is written confidently, with fully fleshed out characters (pun intended!), and lots of humor. I can’t wait for the sequel!

[Hoover Public Library Kids and Teens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elwood has experienced some hard and unexpected changes lately, but he certainly didn’t expect to acquire ghost-sight. Rosenbaum lightens the sadness of this story with plenty of humor. . . this should have wide appeal for ghost enthusiasts.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is really cute and fun and sweet! It's so hard to find mg books that are "for boys" and also funny while still being very kind-hearted and sweet. Def recommend this to kids looking for spooky books. It also has a thoughtful depiction of grief (the mc's brother died earlier in the year).

[Jen Nishi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun yet heartwarming story. It was the perfect mix of humour and emotion. Funny yet heart aching at the same time. Perfect for someone who likes ghosts but doesn’t like to be creeped out.

[Lisa Schmid · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have only one rule: You must read this book! The Ghost Rules is one of my favorite middle grade books of the year. I laughed a lot . . . and I cried (big tears rolling down my cheeks, kind of cry). But in the end I felt nothing but happy. Bravo! I look forward to reading more from Adam Rosenbaum.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elwood has ghost sight. As he journeys through a move with his family after the loss of his brother, he learns more about himself and his family.