Twelve for Twelve: 12 Ghost Novels for 2012
The clock is striking twelve on 2012! So, it must be time for those cherished year-end lists. Everybody’s doing it. At least all the book reviewers seem to be. And as Yossarian said in one of my very favorite books, Catch-22, “Then I’d be a damn fool to think any different.”
So here are the top twelve ghost novels I read (with links if reviewed) in 2012:
12. In the Night Room by Peter Straub
In the Night Room opened with great momentum, but a key revelation was made too soon, which depleted some of the excitement.
11. Ghost Island by Bonnie Hearn Hill
A good introduction to ghost fiction for teen girls with a gentle ghost element and a sweet budding romance.
10. Midnight Bayou by Nora Roberts
Very atmospheric with misty evenings and drooping palms. A better introduction to the Roberts ghost genre would be Black Rose.
9. The Winter Ghosts by Kate Mosse
Perfect for those who like to blend history with literary style.
8. Wieland by Charles Brockdon Brown
Wieland holds merit as the first American gothic novel, debuting in 1798.
7. Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin
A funny, touching novel with a twist on the afterlife and a nod to Lowry’s The Giver.
6. Water Ghosts by Shawna Yang Ryan
Eerie and beautiful. Blends Chinese ghost month mythology with California immigrant history.
5. The Séance by John Harwood
Part mystery, part gothic novel. Multiple narratives in a campfire style of storytelling.
4. The Inhabited World by David Long
I haven’t yet reviewed The Inhabited World, but I recommend it for those of you who like your ghost novels more on the literary side.
3. The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold
Sebold proves you can still come of age even if you’re dead.
2. The Girl Who Stopped Swimming by Joshilyn Jackson
Though the ending was rushed, the author demonstrates a keen understanding of family dynamics and family secrets and the way the two interconnect.
1. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
The Graveyard Book is the clear winner; it’s just a delight. Even sensitive teens can root for this resilient, good-hearted protagonist.
And, of course, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that my very own ghost novel Moonlight Dancer made its debut in 2012 (though being the modest soul that I am, I didn’t review it).
6 thoughts on “Twelve for Twelve: 12 Ghost Novels for 2012”
I obviously love seeing The Graveyard Book as number one. I’d love seeing it on the list anywhere though as it is such a delightful book. I’ve checked out a Harwood book before but have yet to actually read any of his stuff. Gotta rectify that.
Hi Carl,
Some people prefer his Ghost Writer, (which I read this year) but I actually found The Seance more intriguing. Yes, I agree re The Graveyard Book. I’m more in love with Neverwhere, but I couldn’t really call it a ghost novel though I think of the angel as a kind of ghost. Semantics, I guess.
Great list! I loved The Seance too and can’t wait for John Harwood’s new book, which is being released in 2013.
Hi Helen,
I thought Harwood did a superb job of echoing the cadences of the Victorian era while promoting a strong (no smelling salts required) heroine.
And, another list. I love them. Read four of these and quite fancy your No.2. In fact I think we had a discussion about that previously as I mentioned liking The Lovely Bones? I really should start making some sort of list when people recommend books. My memory is clearly not up to the task!
Lynn 😀
I’m with you. I come to many ghost novels through the benevolence of the universe–a remark overheard here, a blog post there, a friend hands me one. And then when I want one, I have to go hunting. I should endeavor to be more organized. Perhaps that could be a New Year’s resolution?