Kate Klise and Sarah Klise are sisters who have written and illustrated more than 30 books. Most of their books are written for children ages 7-10. But like most good fiction of this level, their stories are an absolute delight to read as an adult. My favorite of all their books is the 43 Old Cemetery Road series.
This series is filled with humor for all ages. I found myself laughing out loud as I explained to a second grader some of the puns and funny names! The drawings are intricate and whimsical. I really enjoy the cast of characters we meet and get to know through letters and articles written back and forth. And the story line and mystery is always adorable!
The first book is Dying to Meet You. It introduces the reader to a whole cast of main characters. Seymour Hope, 11 year old son of the absent Les and Diane Hope, can see ghosts and has been left behind at 43 Old Cemetery Road while his parents travel through Europe. Ignatius B. Grumply (I.B. Grumply) is a writer of some fame who is struggling through writer’s block and has rented 43 Old Cemetery Road to try and publish a new book. The rental agreement tricks Ignatius into caring for Seymour. Little does he know that the house also has a resident ghost, Olive C. Spence, included in the price!
As the series moves along the main characters meet new people and conquer new problems by working together. This would be an easy book to read all at once or a chapter at a time, depending on the age of the reader. Also, I like how much visual information there is to enjoy – not just drawings but different handwriting and newspaper clippings – that make the book special. Personally, I sat down and swiftly consumed all seven one right after the other. I have Serious Series Love for 43 Old Cemetery Road!
Tell me, please!
Have you ever read a series intended for children that you just couldn’t put down?
Silver Button Books 
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