What do you think?
Rate this book
Screaming Ridge #1
Remembering Kaylee Cooper
Kaylee Cooper is certain that Alex will become friends with a ghost this year. Alex thinks that he is far too old to be listening to a first grader and encourages Kaylee to stop jeopardizing his important sixth grade social life. Kaylee doesn’t listen and finds awkward ways to spend as much time with Alex as possible, even if it means following him into the boy’s washroom.
Fed up, Alex develops a strategic plan to ultimately help him get rid of Kaylee Cooper for good.
However, he soon learns about the mysterious legend of Screaming Ridge that pulls an unlikely group of friends together, including the girl of his dreams, and the school’s meanest bully. When they discover that the legend is real, and that Kaylee Cooper is at the core of the mystery, Alex stares death in the face and helps save her from an eternal life of misery and confusion.
Fed up, Alex develops a strategic plan to ultimately help him get rid of Kaylee Cooper for good.
However, he soon learns about the mysterious legend of Screaming Ridge that pulls an unlikely group of friends together, including the girl of his dreams, and the school’s meanest bully. When they discover that the legend is real, and that Kaylee Cooper is at the core of the mystery, Alex stares death in the face and helps save her from an eternal life of misery and confusion.
138 pages, Paperback
First published September 28, 2014
21 people are currently reading
970 people want to read
About the author
Christopher Francis
44 books136 followersBorn in Brisbane, Australia, Christopher was accepted at age 19 into Sheridan College’s Animation program before earning a degree in Sociology from McMaster University.
He then enjoyed a two-year adventure overseas working with children, before completing his Bachelor of Education degree at York University. He is now teaching junior and intermediate level students in Burlington, Ontario.
Through Christopher’s experience working with children, he found writing and illustrating to be one of his passions. Currently working on a middle grade series, he recently completed and illustrated the first three books. He has also created seven other children’s picture books and illustrated children’s novels for independent authors.
He then enjoyed a two-year adventure overseas working with children, before completing his Bachelor of Education degree at York University. He is now teaching junior and intermediate level students in Burlington, Ontario.
Through Christopher’s experience working with children, he found writing and illustrating to be one of his passions. Currently working on a middle grade series, he recently completed and illustrated the first three books. He has also created seven other children’s picture books and illustrated children’s novels for independent authors.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
September 29, 2014
Remembering Kaylee Cooper by Christopher Francis is a 2014 Curiosity Quills publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
First of all any time I review a YA novel I have to provide this disclaimer: I normally do not review in this category because I am out of touch with the targeted audience. I can't tell you the exact age group this book will belong in but I can give you a critical thinking assessment of the book.
The set up:
Alex is at that awkward stage where he is experiencing his first crush and belonging is more important than ever. So, the last thing he needs is to be stalked by first grade girl. Tripping over Kaylee Cooper caused a terribly embarrassing situation for Alex, but now the girl won't leave him alone. She pops up at the worst moments and is always imparting bits of information Alex doesn't really want to hear, like he has a pimple on his chin or worse, he might be about to encounter a ghost and he will become friends with this ghost. Alex doesn't need this in his life right now, but after hearing a really spooky ghost story from a fellow classmate, Alex and his girl, Daisy are determined to investigate. Guess who else has decided to join in? Right. Kaylee Cooper, Alex's new “shadow”.
This is a sweet paranormal fantasy that layers Alex's own brush with death with his ability to see ghost. Kaylee's predictions will indeed come true and Alex will learn a lot about little Kaylee and about himself. There were some laugh out loud moments and some super spooky elements and a shocking revelation, as well as little pull on the heart strings. Overall the story is well written and I'm guessing the book will be appropriate for readers middle grade and up. Perfect for a Halloween read.
This one gets 4 stars.
First of all any time I review a YA novel I have to provide this disclaimer: I normally do not review in this category because I am out of touch with the targeted audience. I can't tell you the exact age group this book will belong in but I can give you a critical thinking assessment of the book.
The set up:
Alex is at that awkward stage where he is experiencing his first crush and belonging is more important than ever. So, the last thing he needs is to be stalked by first grade girl. Tripping over Kaylee Cooper caused a terribly embarrassing situation for Alex, but now the girl won't leave him alone. She pops up at the worst moments and is always imparting bits of information Alex doesn't really want to hear, like he has a pimple on his chin or worse, he might be about to encounter a ghost and he will become friends with this ghost. Alex doesn't need this in his life right now, but after hearing a really spooky ghost story from a fellow classmate, Alex and his girl, Daisy are determined to investigate. Guess who else has decided to join in? Right. Kaylee Cooper, Alex's new “shadow”.
This is a sweet paranormal fantasy that layers Alex's own brush with death with his ability to see ghost. Kaylee's predictions will indeed come true and Alex will learn a lot about little Kaylee and about himself. There were some laugh out loud moments and some super spooky elements and a shocking revelation, as well as little pull on the heart strings. Overall the story is well written and I'm guessing the book will be appropriate for readers middle grade and up. Perfect for a Halloween read.
This one gets 4 stars.
June 5, 2016
This was actually a sweet story with a horror twist!
Great story line & characters! But ended too soon! I wanted more!
I would highly recommend this ♥
Great story line & characters! But ended too soon! I wanted more!
I would highly recommend this ♥
October 2, 2014
I was given the opportunity to read to review REMEMBERING KAYLEE COOPER as a part of the blog tour and I was instantly adoring of it. The author is skillful in his depiction of the students in this book, with Kaylee Cooper being the most special. I even experienced some chills!
Kaylee Cooper seems to be a typical 1st grader with a crush on an older boy. She believes she can predict the future and she always follows up with, "Do you want to know how I know?", reminding me strongly of just about every 6 year old alive. Kaylee has an invisible friend named Amber and she just knows that the older boy she is infatuated with is going to make friends with a ghost soon. Could she be right? And if she is, how could Kaylee possibly know this?
"Remembering Kaylee Cooper" is endearing, funny, spooky, and sad, too. I found it to be a beautiful story and I want to read so much more from Christopher Francis!
Kaylee Cooper seems to be a typical 1st grader with a crush on an older boy. She believes she can predict the future and she always follows up with, "Do you want to know how I know?", reminding me strongly of just about every 6 year old alive. Kaylee has an invisible friend named Amber and she just knows that the older boy she is infatuated with is going to make friends with a ghost soon. Could she be right? And if she is, how could Kaylee possibly know this?
"Remembering Kaylee Cooper" is endearing, funny, spooky, and sad, too. I found it to be a beautiful story and I want to read so much more from Christopher Francis!
December 6, 2014
Learning To Believe The Truth
This book was awesome! I couldn't believe how easy it was to read even while dealing with incredibly complicated and at times disturbing subject matter. It is a mesmerizing tale of growing up and life after death as well as dealing with the myriad other things normal children deal with every day. I will definitely want to share this with my children when they get older!
Kaylee is in 1st grade and she has decided that Alex (a sixth grader) is her new best friend. She follows him everywhere and pesters him constantly with questions. At first he is annoyed but as he gets to know her and unravels the mysteries surrounding her he realizes they really are friends.
I definitely hope this turns in to a series! I loved it! But even if it doesn't I will still be looking for more new books by this amazing author!
***This book is written at a middle grade reading level but could be suitable for younger children with advanced reading skills :)
This book was awesome! I couldn't believe how easy it was to read even while dealing with incredibly complicated and at times disturbing subject matter. It is a mesmerizing tale of growing up and life after death as well as dealing with the myriad other things normal children deal with every day. I will definitely want to share this with my children when they get older!
Kaylee is in 1st grade and she has decided that Alex (a sixth grader) is her new best friend. She follows him everywhere and pesters him constantly with questions. At first he is annoyed but as he gets to know her and unravels the mysteries surrounding her he realizes they really are friends.
I definitely hope this turns in to a series! I loved it! But even if it doesn't I will still be looking for more new books by this amazing author!
***This book is written at a middle grade reading level but could be suitable for younger children with advanced reading skills :)
October 24, 2014
Remembering Kaylee Cooper is yet another example of how engaging and talented Chris Francis is as an author.
The richly woven text shares Alex's experience as he tries to fit into middle school and all that entails, but must also deal with Kaylee Cooper -a first grade student, who insists on pestering and following Alex around and making outrageous claims about who he will befriend this year! Anyone who has read a Chris Francis novel before, will love revisiting familiar characters and the continued struggle of the main character to find his place in the world.
Remembering Kaylee Cooper is a fantastic story that blends mystery and adventure into a story any student could relate to. It explores relationships between older and younger students, between friends and family. I cannot recommend this book enough... A must read!!
The richly woven text shares Alex's experience as he tries to fit into middle school and all that entails, but must also deal with Kaylee Cooper -a first grade student, who insists on pestering and following Alex around and making outrageous claims about who he will befriend this year! Anyone who has read a Chris Francis novel before, will love revisiting familiar characters and the continued struggle of the main character to find his place in the world.
Remembering Kaylee Cooper is a fantastic story that blends mystery and adventure into a story any student could relate to. It explores relationships between older and younger students, between friends and family. I cannot recommend this book enough... A must read!!
October 18, 2014
What an intriguing plot! This story played out like a movie with detailed description and superb character development that leaves you feeling as if you know what the characters are secretly thinking. I was captivated by the twists in the story that kept me turning pages...couldn't put it down! Christopher Francis is a talented author who envelops you in the story as if you were taking part yet still manages to keep you on the edge of your seat with unforseen details and turns in the plot.
Highly recommend this book - Good read...no, GREAT read!
Highly recommend this book - Good read...no, GREAT read!
January 21, 2015
Chris Francis is an excellent writer! I was so engaged with the story I read it in a couple of hours!!
A fantastic teen read that is relevant to how a teen struggles with life as well spooky and thrilling.
A fantastic teen read that is relevant to how a teen struggles with life as well spooky and thrilling.
September 13, 2018
Beautifully written and easy to read. This book touches on some serious subjects but leaves you wanting more. I didn’t want it to end. I will be looking forward to more books by this author.
November 17, 2014
I received a digital copy of this title from the publisher via Netgalley.
Ten Second Synopsis:
For some reason he just can't fathom, Adam is being constantly shadowed by first-grade girl, Kaylee Cooper. But is there more to Kaylee than meets the eye?
This is a quick, middle grade ghost story that is pitched at the perfect level for a young audience. There is just enough creepiness to satisfy those who enjoy a scare and just enough mystery for those who like a puzzle. Alex is a likeable protagonist and I particularly enjoyed the sense of comaraderie that develops between Alex's classmates as the story progresses and the mystery deepens.
There was one inexplicable element to this tale that drove me nuts while I was reading and that was the ridiculous surnames of all the teachers in the story, and the weird penchant for alliterative names for the kids. The teachers were called Stoolpigeon, Humblewick, Allthumbs and Monobrow....really? Monobrow? The kids were called Damian Dermite, Madelyn Mayfeather, Henry Horkenminder...Why? For me, the use of unlikely names just gave the characters a silly, cartoonish feel when the actual plot doesn't reflect a cartoony feel at all. This really affected my overall enjoyment of the book and I wish it hadn't been the case.
This next bit is a bit spoilery, so skip ahead to the next paragraph if you don't want to read it:
Another small niggle I had with the plot here was the fact that Kaylee wsa supposed to have died in 1962, having been born in 1954. Why then, I wondered, was she described as dressing as if she was from 100 years ago, in long dresses and leather boots with long stockings? This bit didn't tally for me and as I'm a pedantic sort of a reader, caused me to be mildly cranky with the whole book.
Putting aside my minor irritations, this is a solid ghost story that will appeal to its middle grade audience. There are a few elements in the plot that are fairly predictable, but also a few that come completely out of left field and add to the mystery that Alex and his friends are trying to solve. Pick this one up if you're looking for a light, fun read with a spooky twist.
Ten Second Synopsis:
For some reason he just can't fathom, Adam is being constantly shadowed by first-grade girl, Kaylee Cooper. But is there more to Kaylee than meets the eye?
This is a quick, middle grade ghost story that is pitched at the perfect level for a young audience. There is just enough creepiness to satisfy those who enjoy a scare and just enough mystery for those who like a puzzle. Alex is a likeable protagonist and I particularly enjoyed the sense of comaraderie that develops between Alex's classmates as the story progresses and the mystery deepens.
There was one inexplicable element to this tale that drove me nuts while I was reading and that was the ridiculous surnames of all the teachers in the story, and the weird penchant for alliterative names for the kids. The teachers were called Stoolpigeon, Humblewick, Allthumbs and Monobrow....really? Monobrow? The kids were called Damian Dermite, Madelyn Mayfeather, Henry Horkenminder...Why? For me, the use of unlikely names just gave the characters a silly, cartoonish feel when the actual plot doesn't reflect a cartoony feel at all. This really affected my overall enjoyment of the book and I wish it hadn't been the case.
This next bit is a bit spoilery, so skip ahead to the next paragraph if you don't want to read it:
Another small niggle I had with the plot here was the fact that Kaylee wsa supposed to have died in 1962, having been born in 1954. Why then, I wondered, was she described as dressing as if she was from 100 years ago, in long dresses and leather boots with long stockings? This bit didn't tally for me and as I'm a pedantic sort of a reader, caused me to be mildly cranky with the whole book.
Putting aside my minor irritations, this is a solid ghost story that will appeal to its middle grade audience. There are a few elements in the plot that are fairly predictable, but also a few that come completely out of left field and add to the mystery that Alex and his friends are trying to solve. Pick this one up if you're looking for a light, fun read with a spooky twist.
October 6, 2014
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review).
(This review may contain spoilers).
I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. The plotline was really interesting and engaging enough that it kept me reading throughout, even though I’m normally too tired to do much of anything after a night shift.
It was nice to read a book that didn’t have demons in it. I really liked the paranormal aspects of this book and I also really liked the characters. It was also nice to see a well-rounded character in the school bully… though I didn’t really like him for a lot of the book, even by the end.
I did like Alex in the book, even though I felt he was kind of mean to Kaylee for a lot of the book. I felt that the author did a good job of showing the kind of thought processes and comments six-year-olds make. By the end of the book, my sympathy for Kaylee had grown quite a lot.
I would have liked to see more of some of the other characters, too. There was a subplot I would have liked to see further explored… one that confused me a bit. I didn’t really understand what was going on in regards to that. But it was definitely something I would have liked to see explored more.
The book itself was well-written and I felt that I could really picture a lot of the events happening in my mind. I was pulled in right from the start and the book kept me hooked all the way through.
I think I’d definitely be interested in reading more books by this author and it would be good to see a sequel exploring some of the plots that were left hanging, in a way, in this book. It definitely had a proper ending, but there was more that could have been explored… at least in my opinion.
(This review may contain spoilers).
I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. The plotline was really interesting and engaging enough that it kept me reading throughout, even though I’m normally too tired to do much of anything after a night shift.
It was nice to read a book that didn’t have demons in it. I really liked the paranormal aspects of this book and I also really liked the characters. It was also nice to see a well-rounded character in the school bully… though I didn’t really like him for a lot of the book, even by the end.
I did like Alex in the book, even though I felt he was kind of mean to Kaylee for a lot of the book. I felt that the author did a good job of showing the kind of thought processes and comments six-year-olds make. By the end of the book, my sympathy for Kaylee had grown quite a lot.
I would have liked to see more of some of the other characters, too. There was a subplot I would have liked to see further explored… one that confused me a bit. I didn’t really understand what was going on in regards to that. But it was definitely something I would have liked to see explored more.
The book itself was well-written and I felt that I could really picture a lot of the events happening in my mind. I was pulled in right from the start and the book kept me hooked all the way through.
I think I’d definitely be interested in reading more books by this author and it would be good to see a sequel exploring some of the plots that were left hanging, in a way, in this book. It definitely had a proper ending, but there was more that could have been explored… at least in my opinion.
October 9, 2014
I received an ebook from the publisher in exchange for review consideration. It does not change how I review a book and the review below is still my honest opinion.
Quick Facts
• Middle Grades Book but easily enjoyed by older readers
• Ghost Story- Perfect October read
• Supernatural with reality based middle school drama
• Easy, fast paced read
I really liked this book and it was a great pick to read in October. I am definitely not the target audience but I love YA books. This books can be enjoyed by an even younger audience if the middle school age enjoys supernatural reads and ghost stories. It is a fast paced read that can easily be read in a day, as I did.
I loved how well the real life everyday drama of middle school was incorporated in this book with the supernatural world. It was done seamlessly with the supernatural aspects and it all blended really well together. This is a great October pick for young readers and readers who love YA books, but this book is still a good read even if it isn’t October.
Read more at by blog:lostbraincell.com
Quick Facts
• Middle Grades Book but easily enjoyed by older readers
• Ghost Story- Perfect October read
• Supernatural with reality based middle school drama
• Easy, fast paced read
I really liked this book and it was a great pick to read in October. I am definitely not the target audience but I love YA books. This books can be enjoyed by an even younger audience if the middle school age enjoys supernatural reads and ghost stories. It is a fast paced read that can easily be read in a day, as I did.
I loved how well the real life everyday drama of middle school was incorporated in this book with the supernatural world. It was done seamlessly with the supernatural aspects and it all blended really well together. This is a great October pick for young readers and readers who love YA books, but this book is still a good read even if it isn’t October.
Read more at by blog:lostbraincell.com
March 9, 2015
Remembering Kaylee Cooper is an intriguing story between reality and the unknown. The author does a wonderful job of narrating a story of a preteen boy and a girl caught between two worlds. I found this book to be very engaging and just the perfect length for young readers. Follow Alex on the adventure of a lifetime and find yourself in an engrossing story of coming to age and being caught between this world and beyond. Once I began reading this book, I couldn’t put it down, and thought how my own children would enjoy reading this story. If you are looking for a good book to read and like the stories about life in middle school and ghost stories you will surely enjoy reading this book. This book was written for the middle class or junior high level children, ages 10-14, and many children would be able to relate to this book on many levels.
October 17, 2015
I really enjoyed this book although it was written for younger readers. It has depth enough to keep an adult reader interested and wanting to figure out the whole mystery behind this charming little girl as well as the other things that occur in the book. There is plenty of material for the author to expand on the story in other books as you are left wondering so many things. What happened the night of the fire? Who pulled him from the river? Is the cat involved or not? Why could everyone see the new girl? Did the tornado have something to do with any of this? So many questions that could be elaborated on. Of course, you will have to read the book to even understand what those questions mean. I found it worth my time and the characters that were children were especially well written/portrayed. (I know this isn't the clearest review - I will try to come back and edit it.)
October 7, 2014
REVIEW: REMEMBERING KAYLEE COOPER by Christopher Francis
A subtly haunting story whose core theme sneaks up on the reader like a silent fog, REMEMBERING KAYLEE COOPER is much more than at first appears. Alex Thomas is a haunted sixth-grader, pestered and badgered by an aggravating six-year-old named Kaylee Cooper, and Amber, her invisible best friend. Alex just wants to stay cool, avoid the overgrown school bully, and befriend Daisy, stepsister of Alex's friend Henry. What he doesn't want is entanglement with a family deceased fifty years, who just can't seem to cross over.
A subtly haunting story whose core theme sneaks up on the reader like a silent fog, REMEMBERING KAYLEE COOPER is much more than at first appears. Alex Thomas is a haunted sixth-grader, pestered and badgered by an aggravating six-year-old named Kaylee Cooper, and Amber, her invisible best friend. Alex just wants to stay cool, avoid the overgrown school bully, and befriend Daisy, stepsister of Alex's friend Henry. What he doesn't want is entanglement with a family deceased fifty years, who just can't seem to cross over.
October 15, 2014
I feel this book is quite well written and designed as well as well edited. It is an easy to follow story with all the right touches. I like how the story takes you along and how connected the reader gets with every aspect. Emotions are drawn out from a soft gasp to a sad tear to a laugh out loud moment. The characters are well fleshed out and the plot has a nice flow with all the strings following through. I received an ARC through Curiosity Quills Press in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion.
October 6, 2015
Remembering Kylee Cooper is a wonderful story for the entire family. Chris Francis has a wonderful ability to capture the quirky personalities and awkwardness of his young characters as they stumble through developing into adulthood. His characters are well developed, posses character arches when needed, will make you laugh, and always get in your heart.
This is a great story and I recommend his other stories as well.
This is a great story and I recommend his other stories as well.
December 26, 2014
What a wonderful story for both children and adults. Kaylee Cooper is the center figure concerning a local legend and Alex and is starting to think ghosts really do exist. He is joined by the school bully and the coolest girl in the 6th grade to help a ghost make her way off the earthly plain back to her family. Great characters make this a fast read.
September 25, 2015
I read this book in one day because it was so good. The characters are real, the story has a wonderful pace and I really enjoyed the way the book started off. Young adults will really like this but don't be turned off by that classification, this is a book for all ages.
January 28, 2015
Remembering Kaylee Copper is a intriguing book and really makes you think and wonder, I couldn't put it down from start to finish. The book is definitely worth the read.
June 13, 2022
I have to say I am really enjoying my summer selection of books. Christopher Francis is a very talented author. His story about a young boy who is being followed by a young and annoying girl made my day today. Kaylee inadvertently trips Alex in the Cafeteria one day at school. This created a mess on him, his friends and landed him in the principal's office. She follows him everywhere. As the story goes on we are introduced to Daisy, the girl Alex has a crush on. He also is best friends with her step-brother Henry. Then we are introduced to the school Bully Damian and his side-kick Jared. Madelyn is a new girl in school. During Their Mythology class they are discussing urban legends. She tells them one about the house on screaming ridge. She tells them about the family that lived and died there. This set a whole lot of things in motion. The fact that Alex almost drowned in the river has caused him to react differently to things.
This is a ghost story, but not the creepy, don't go in the house kind of story. This is the story of a ghost who doesn't realize they are a ghost. This is a story of those who have had contact in one form or another with ghosts or who have had near death experiences. This is one of those stories that will keep the reader reading from beginning to end. The characters are believable, the setting is well thought out. Christopher Francis is an author who definitely knows what he is doing. I purchased his books in ebook format but will definitely be purchases paperback copies for my shelves this year.
This is a ghost story, but not the creepy, don't go in the house kind of story. This is the story of a ghost who doesn't realize they are a ghost. This is a story of those who have had contact in one form or another with ghosts or who have had near death experiences. This is one of those stories that will keep the reader reading from beginning to end. The characters are believable, the setting is well thought out. Christopher Francis is an author who definitely knows what he is doing. I purchased his books in ebook format but will definitely be purchases paperback copies for my shelves this year.
February 12, 2025
Alex is an 11-year-old boy with his first crush, and he doesn't need a first grader following him around. Especially a strange one. Kaylee seems to know things--about Alex, other people at school, and the Screaming House. When Madelyn tells the class she knows there are ghosts at the Screaming house, Alex feels he isn't crazy for believing in ghosts but he wonders how they are connected to Kaylee.
Definitely in the upper elementary reading level. The story is spooky but not overly scarry. There is nothing overly gory. Alex and Daisy's relationship is just at the like-like stage (even if Kaylee keeps telling them they're in love.)
The main thing I didn't like about it, was at the beginning of the book there are several jumps in the timeline. Alex has a major event in his life where he almost drowns in a storm because his bike slips off the road. He believes that a ghost saved him from the water and a white cat led him to a place that was safe to wait the storm out. Alex told the news that the police saved him. At first it seems like it happened years ago then it seems to have happened days ago. It does explain why Alex believes in ghosts but that's the only way he seems to be affected. Shouldn't he have some physical and mental trauma, and maybe even some celebrity? It still could have been G-rated or the ghost incident could have been something less dramatic. It didn't quite seem to fit.
Definitely in the upper elementary reading level. The story is spooky but not overly scarry. There is nothing overly gory. Alex and Daisy's relationship is just at the like-like stage (even if Kaylee keeps telling them they're in love.)
The main thing I didn't like about it, was at the beginning of the book there are several jumps in the timeline. Alex has a major event in his life where he almost drowns in a storm because his bike slips off the road. He believes that a ghost saved him from the water and a white cat led him to a place that was safe to wait the storm out. Alex told the news that the police saved him. At first it seems like it happened years ago then it seems to have happened days ago. It does explain why Alex believes in ghosts but that's the only way he seems to be affected. Shouldn't he have some physical and mental trauma, and maybe even some celebrity? It still could have been G-rated or the ghost incident could have been something less dramatic. It didn't quite seem to fit.
June 7, 2022
Alex is a 6th grader who finds himself being stalked by a first grader, which is the absolute last thing that he needs. It all seems to start when he trips over Kaylee - which created an embarrassing situation for Alex. From that point forward, Kaylee will not leave him alone; he can't even get away from her in the bathroom! Not only does she continually show up in places that he would rather she not be, but she also keeps telling him things that he definitely doesn't want to hear, like that he has a new pimple on his face and that he will become friends with a ghost.
In this paranormal story, Alex has a near-death experience and develops the ability to see and speak to ghosts, though he doesn't realize it immediately. However, when a classmate tells a story about the legend of Screaming Ridge, Alex is compelled to investigate with others in his class, and they soon discover the legend is real.
This was a really fun story to listen to. the narrator - Shannon Marie Cusick - did a wonderful job with the story. Her voice pulled me right into the story. After listening to this story - especially with that ending! - I am definitely looking forward to listening to the next book in the series. I have also put Christopher Francis on my list of go-to authors for MG stories. Every one that I have read/listened to so far has been great.
In this paranormal story, Alex has a near-death experience and develops the ability to see and speak to ghosts, though he doesn't realize it immediately. However, when a classmate tells a story about the legend of Screaming Ridge, Alex is compelled to investigate with others in his class, and they soon discover the legend is real.
This was a really fun story to listen to. the narrator - Shannon Marie Cusick - did a wonderful job with the story. Her voice pulled me right into the story. After listening to this story - especially with that ending! - I am definitely looking forward to listening to the next book in the series. I have also put Christopher Francis on my list of go-to authors for MG stories. Every one that I have read/listened to so far has been great.
October 2, 2021
Remembering Kaylee Cooper
• A fun tale for around the campfire or huddling in a darkened room. Scary—but with a satisfying (slightly bittersweet) ending.
• Sixth-grader Alex is being tormented by Kaylee, who at six or seven years of age has an uncanny ability to get in his way and under his skin. If she would only just disappear…but then there’s the haunted house on Screaming Ridge Road…and class bullies, freak storms, and his best friend’s ready-to-take-on-a-dare stepsister. Past and Present collide as time threatens to run out, closing the door to the future.
• The story and characters are intriguing and you want to turn the page to uncover each new chapter.
• The writing could be tighter, although some of the twists and turns could benefit from a stronger foundation. But it’s a ghost story that resonates well with urban legends everywhere.
• Worth the read.
• A fun tale for around the campfire or huddling in a darkened room. Scary—but with a satisfying (slightly bittersweet) ending.
• Sixth-grader Alex is being tormented by Kaylee, who at six or seven years of age has an uncanny ability to get in his way and under his skin. If she would only just disappear…but then there’s the haunted house on Screaming Ridge Road…and class bullies, freak storms, and his best friend’s ready-to-take-on-a-dare stepsister. Past and Present collide as time threatens to run out, closing the door to the future.
• The story and characters are intriguing and you want to turn the page to uncover each new chapter.
• The writing could be tighter, although some of the twists and turns could benefit from a stronger foundation. But it’s a ghost story that resonates well with urban legends everywhere.
• Worth the read.
June 3, 2022
Screaming Ridge #1 Remembering Kaylee Cooper. I am finding that I am becoming rather enamored with the writing of Christopher Francis. In some way he is Alex. He is able to be Alex, to feel Alex's frustrations, his joys, and his love, yes the love of an 11 year old. Alex also finds himself in a position of being able to help a little first grade girl with paranormal abilities, and no one to help her tame them. This story book is written in such a way that you feel you pop right in and help little Kaylee who is alone in all this paranormal. I hope Christopher will continue writing about Screaming Ridge as I would love to continue to read and learn how these young people develop and grow in this unique world in which they live.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2018
Another goodreads free-be & read it super fast cus it was pretty short and meant for middle school aged adolescents lol But I got it for free and once I start a book I like to finish it (unless it’s too painful & even then I try to push through it lol) Thought it was a cute story and a bit of mystery though I kind of figured it out at the beginning (see my kindle notes & highlights) and pretty good at depicting the adolescent mind-set. Overall a good read and entertaining & would def like to see this author’s illustrations in his other works for children
September 24, 2018
"Young adult" is a bit of a stretch here. This book read very young IMO. Perhaps it's early pre-young-adult. Don't know. It had its moments, and it kept me entertained on a number of bus rides to work, but yeah, very young. Not a bad thing, just something to keep in mind. The story is actually pretty good. Not creepy, at least I didn't think so. It works as a light in-between-other-books read, I guess.
I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. I honestly need to review these books closer to the dates when I finish them. Sorry about that.
I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. I honestly need to review these books closer to the dates when I finish them. Sorry about that.
September 28, 2019
I received a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
While the bones of a decent story are definitely there, this book suffers terribly from sloppy editing, a large number of spelling and grammatical errors, and a lack of background. The story immediately dives in without any buildup whatsoever, and I spent nearly half of it wondering why I was supposed to care about the characters. There's an overall amateur feel that detracts from the positive points, and for the most part I was unimpressed.
While the bones of a decent story are definitely there, this book suffers terribly from sloppy editing, a large number of spelling and grammatical errors, and a lack of background. The story immediately dives in without any buildup whatsoever, and I spent nearly half of it wondering why I was supposed to care about the characters. There's an overall amateur feel that detracts from the positive points, and for the most part I was unimpressed.
October 24, 2020
I LOVE a good ghost story! The fall weather is a perfect time to curl up with a mysterious book and engaged imagination! I was kept 'guessing' about Kaylee and her attachment to Alex. I won't be a 'spoiler' here! However, the author was so clever in weaving the characters and two dimensional worlds together. One thing is for sure any youth or adult who reads this book, will "Never forget...Kaylee Cooper!" I know, I won't! A brilliant read!
https://storyoriginapp.com/swaps/9d88...
https://storyoriginapp.com/swaps/9d88...
August 21, 2018
This is a good book
It keeps you interested and guessing through the whole thing. Great story for middle school students, shows unlikely friendships and ghosts
It keeps you interested and guessing through the whole thing. Great story for middle school students, shows unlikely friendships and ghosts
July 6, 2019
Compelling.
Was drawn to keep my Kindle in my hand to see what happened next. Well-developed, familiar characters. Surprising development. Not just for younger readers.
Was drawn to keep my Kindle in my hand to see what happened next. Well-developed, familiar characters. Surprising development. Not just for younger readers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews