JessicaÆs Ghostáby Andrew Norris
A ghost story with a difference. Francis has never had a friend like Jessica who makes him feel able to be himself. Jessica has never had a friend like Francis û not only because he makes her laugh but because he is the only person who can see her! With themes of being different and fitting in JessicaÆs Ghost is a funny and moving story which ties in beautifully with the æReading WellÆ initiative in BoltonÆs libraries
Although this book was shortlisted last year; here is a short review or the book if you have not yet read it. Perhaps you will list this as part of your Summer Reading. You will enjoy the book! 🙂
æJessicaÆs GhostÆ is one of the most compelling, heart-breaking and funniest bookI have read. The plot may not have been so realistic with the existence of a ghost, yet it teaches the reader many morals especially those around the world who are suffering from bullying and æjust want to get rid of themselvesÆ. All I wanted was to read it every second spared, and finishing was an awful moment!
æJessicaÆs GhostÆ is set in the modern day with only a minor amount of fantastical elements. It begins by focusing on a boy named Francis. HeÆs not into games or fighting, but he likes sewing clothes, which doesnÆt fit the stereotype. HeÆs constantly teased at school about his odd hobby, and things are getting pretty tough when he meets Jessica. Jessica û as you might have expected û is a ghost. And Francis seems to be the only one who can hear and see her. There is something strange which is connecting them both, and neither of them understands what it might be. But as more and more people say they can hear and see Jessica, their link is revealed.
This is a really fascinating story which is completely unique and original. It was nice to read something fresh: Jessica can do things the typical ghost can do, like go through walls and float in the air, but she can do other things like think of an outfit and suddenly sheÆs wearing it. This neat little trick comes in handy for Francis, who uses her to model his designs and ideas. Jessica as a character is really interesting. SheÆs clever and sharp and perceptive, as well as dreamy and beautiful. ItÆs horrible that she died so young but to the reader it almost seems as if she hasnÆt died at all as sheÆs so much like an ordinary girl.
ôJessicaÆs Ghostö teaches you that friendship can be found anywhere. Nothing defines you e.g. your colour, race, religion, nationality etc. It is the personality that matters the most and will show your qualities.
I would strongly urge you to read this emotional novel whether you are small or big. As you grow older, you discover there are two things that matter the most û friendship and happiness. This is what the story shows: the inevitable power of the two is extraordinary and an important key to a successful life.
I liked the book because of Jessica, she lit up Frances’s life, which helped him make new friends and even save someone’s life. Jessica had a big impact on how I view ghosts too, which was that not all of them are nasty, but some of them can be a friend to you.