The Crossroads by Chris Grabenstein

There is a flashing red light at the intersection of County Route 13 which crosses Connecticut State Highway 31. And at one corner stands a gigantic oak tree. Years ago a tragic accident killing 41 people occurred involving a greyhound bus, a police officer, and a speeding Thunderbird. The Thunderbird crashed into the oak and for years it has harbored the spirit of Clint Eberhaut. When lightning strikes and splits the tree, it releases Clint's evil spirit. He begins to go about town taking care of some unfinished business. Zach, age 11, is part of that business as Clint plans to kill him because Zach's grandfather the sheriff at the time accidentally killed his son. Zach, his father, and stepmother Judy move into a new house in which the oak can be seen from their backyard. As Zach and family encounter people and ghosts in the town and at the crossroads, we learn how their lives are all intertwined in the mystery behind the tragic accident. Short chapters with lots of action and an interesting friendship with a neighbor boy named Davy help move this ghostly story along.

Ages: 11 and up

Comments: At first I had trouble keeping the characters straight as far as their relation to each other and whether or not they were a ghost. This ghost story is somewhat dark with adult situations. Recommend this one to older juniors and teens.