Life After Theft

Gr 9 Up—Jeff Clayson's life has been turned upside down in more ways than one. Uprooted from his middle-class world by his parents so that his mother can pursue an acting career, he now lives with them in an upscale section of California, drives a BMW, and attends a prep school. Being the odd man out intensifies when on Jeff's first day he encounters none other than Kimberlee Schaffer. Unfortunately for him, she is dead and he is the only one who can see or hear her. His agreeing to help Kimberlee with her "unfinished business" begins a whirlwind adventure full of secrets, lies, unlikely friendships, romance, and important lessons about the price of redemption. Pike delivers an insightfully written, fast-paced, and witty plot told from a teenage boy's point of view. Full of well-developed characters, this ghostly tale tackles complicated themes such as acceptance, bullying, and atonement that readers will relate to. A clever and engaging read that will satisfy more than just fans of the paranormal.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY