A review by jshawreads
The Other Ones by Fran Hart

dark emotional hopeful mysterious reflective relaxing sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Sal and his sister live in a haunted house. A house that the entire village stays away from, that creaks and groans, and seems to trap the spirits of anyone who has lived there... At least that's what Sal's mum says. But when Pax, the new kid in town, is drawn to the house by his love of the occult and supernatural, it's the friendship and affection of Sal that keeps him going back. Together with the rest of his group of "Others" Sal works to find the courage to truly banish his ghosts.

This book is deliciously cosy, heartwarming, and intriguing. I went into it expecting a certain story and theme, and had that totally flipped around on me. Meeting grumpy, but with a heart of gold, Sal, the literal sunshine weird boy Pax, and the rest was delightful. Queerness without associated phobia as a struggle is always refreshing, and to see Sal develop himself and learn about his sexuality was lovely. The theme of ghosts and unspoken hauntings was wonderful, and the development of a really good core group of friends for the outcasts, the weird, and the wonderful was fantastic to see.

A pumpkin spice candle, hot chocolate, and a blanket in a book. So much love for this!