A Place for Vanishing by Ann Fraistat. Delacorte Press, 2024. 9780593382219
Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 5
Format: Hardcover
Genre: Young Adult Horror/Sci Fi Fantasy
What did you like about the book? After her failed suicide attempt, Libby and her family try to make a fresh start in a mysterious house that’s been abandoned for decades. But while the family struggles to cope with their trauma, they must also face the secrets of the house, which include a history of séances, rumored disappearances, and creepy bugs – so many creepy bugs. The author deftly balances a story about a shattered family and mental illness with a thrilling tale of hauntings and the supernatural. Libby, her younger sister, their mom, and a quirky boy next door are well developed and relatable. The supernatural elements will make readers’ skin crawl and the ending is fast-paced, tense, and thrilling.
Anything you didn’t like about it? The bugs may turn off some readers. The themes of suicide and self-harm may be too heavy for some, but the author includes a content warning.
To whom would you recommend this book? Teen readers who like haunted house/horror stories and don’t mind being creeped out. Also fans of social horror like White Smoke by Tiffany D. Jackson and The Getaway by Lamar Giles.
Who should buy this book? High schools or public library young adult sections
Where would you shelve it? Young adult/teen fiction
Should we (librarians/readers) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? Yes
Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City and State: Sue McHugh, Hanover High School, Hanover, MA
Date of review: April 22, 2024
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