Dial-a-ghost

Eva Ibbotson

Cover of Dial-a-ghost

Dial-a-ghost

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

by Eva Ibbotson

Illustrated by Hawkes, Kevin, illustrator

Reading Level 4-5 9LE Ages 9-12 Balanced Read

The text is written at a 4th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content is mild with minimal sensitive material.

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About This Book

The eerie creak of old floorboards echoes through the chilly halls of Helton Hall, where shadows twist and whispers linger. Oliver, an orphan with a new home, isn't alone — a family of friendly ghosts watches over him. But when wicked cousins call in frightful spirits to scare him away, the real ghostly adventure begins, filled with unexpected friendships and chilling secrets.

Themes

GhostsOrphansFamilyFriendshipAdventureFiction

Quick Assessment

This middle-grade novel follows orphan Oliver Smith as he inherits a mysterious old estate and faces sinister relatives who employ ghosts to frighten him. Suitable for ages 9-12, the story blends spooky elements with themes of courage, friendship, and resilience. Parents should note mild fantasy scares and themes of family conflict but will find a warm, engaging tale overall.

For Parents

Content Intensity

9LE — Light — Emotional
Emotional
Light
Physical
Light
Social
Light
Thematic
Light

Light conflict or tension. Mild peril resolved quickly.

Data confidence: standard

Was our "Mild" content intensity rating accurate for this book?

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

2/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

2/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
4
Emotional Weight
4
Theme Richness
6
World Scope
3
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

195 pages
ISBN
9780439434362
Pages
195
Publisher
Scholastic
Published
2002
Type
Fiction

Genres

Subjects

GhostsOrphans

Places

England