Reading Metrics
Description
Wishing to be like his older but dead brother, who often materializes to give Wally advice and support, Wally enters a skateboarding competition and finally gains the confidence to be himself.
Quick Summary
Wally's world turns upside-down when his older brother's ghost starts popping up to give him advice, and at first it feels weird, but the ghost's humor and encouragement make it easier for Wally to face everyday problems. He decides to enter a local skateboarding competition because his brother was a skating star, but as he trains he realizes he doesn't have to be a carbon copy of his sibling he can find his own style and confidence. The story mixes the lightness of a middle-grade adventure with the emotional weight of dealing with loss, so it's both funny and a little bit sad, which makes it a good choice for kids who like realistic fiction with a touch of the supernatural. Parents will appreciate that the ghost isn't scary; instead, it's a comforting presence that helps Wally work through his grief and learn to stand on his own. If you enjoy books about family, perseverance, and a dash of the unusual, you'll likely find Ghost Brother a quick, satisfying read that hits the right notes for the 4-6th grade crowd.