Reading Metrics
Description
Tom is about to come face to face with Charlotte, Becca's double. Tom is in love with Becca, but Charlotte died three hundred and fifty years ago.
Quick Summary
If you're looking for a quick, spooky-but-sweet read, "Abracadabra" by Alex Gutteridge hits that sweet spot for middle graders who like a little mystery with their romance. Tom has a crush on Becca, but things get weird when he keeps seeing this other girl named Charlotte who looks exactly like her except Charlotte died over three hundred years ago. The story unfolds through short, punchy chapters that keep the pages turning without feeling overwhelming, making it perfect for reluctant readers or kids who want something they can finish in a weekend. There's a ghostly mystery element mixed with the awkwardness of teenage feelings, which creates this fun tension between "is this scary or romantic?" The writing keeps things light enough that it never gets too heavy, but there's still enough substance to make you think about fate and connection. Fans of books like "The Time Traveler's Wife" for kids, or anyone who enjoys a touch of the supernatural in their school-day stories, will find this one surprisingly memorable. It's short enough to not intimidate, but weird enough that kids will want to talk about the ending with their friends.