Tennessee “Tennie” Lancaster can sense memories trapped in objects. She’s kept this power hidden from her family, however, not wanting to add extra stress to their financial struggles and to Mama’s “blues”/depression. As the oldest of four siblings, Tennie is used to giving things up in order to keep peace in the family.
After her family moves to the mountain town of Howler’s Hollow (the setting of author Ash van Otterloo’s Cattywampus) for a fresh start, Tennie’s power releases a ghost with a frightening message. Her new friend Fox Sanchez-Griffin (who happens to be nonbinary) wants to go ghost hunting, but Tennie is hesitant about what the intersection of ghosts and her power could mean. As more spooky messages reveal themselves, Tennie and Fox must unravel the mystery that now has tendrils around Tennie’s family and perhaps the wider community. A budding romance between Tennie and Fox is given a light touch; it’s clear, but never the focus of the story per se.
Spooky, folksy, and occasionally lyrical, the book never lets its magic get in the way of the very real emotions of friendship and family. While the ending is conclusive, there’s also a hint that there could be a sequel. Let’s hope so.
