Genre: children's paranormal
Length: 4h
Audio publisher: Random House Audio GO, 2007
From: Library OverDrive
Recap: Johnny has returned from space and can now hear ghosts. But the cemetery is to be sold for development. Can Johnny and the ghosts stop the bulldozers?
Review: I love Halloween. It's my favorite holiday, so this second book in the Johnny Maxwell series hits my sweet spot. Terry Pratchett is a comedy master, and Johnny and the Dead has some really funny parts. The writing has tightened up a bit from Only You Can Save Mankind. The plot is smoother and the laughs louder. Luckily, Johnny and the Dead can stand on its own.
Johnny and his friends are the best part of these books. They're well developed and play off of one another with expert timing. I was disappointed the female friend from the first book isn't around, but Wobbler, Yo-less and BigMac hold their own. Published in 1993, a few of the references have become dated, but in all the book holds up surprisingly well.
Reading: Richard Mitchley is an amazing reader. His enjoyment just bursts out, and he does great sound effects, especially static. My Britishism dictionary was added to with the pronunciation of the word "mall." It rimes with "pal."
Final Thoughts: A fun ghost story for younger readers.
Grade: 4 out of 5
and RIP VI hosted by Carl at Stainless Steel Droppings.
I love Terry Pratchett, but I have never read any of his YA stuff. I'll have to give this one a try! Have you read his Discworld series?
ReplyDeleteYes! I like the ones with the City Watch best. My favorite Pratchett are the Tiffany Aching series, starting with Wee Free Men. They are childrens/YA that take place in Diskworld but are self-contained. Good as audio, too.
ReplyDeleteThe City Watch books are my favorite too. Love Vimes. <3
ReplyDeleteDang, apparently I need to read more of Terry Pratchett! There is a lot more out there than just the Discworld series. I feel like I should have known that, haha. Oh well. I'll get right on it. :)
Vimes! My friends had to tell me about the Tiffany Achings or I would never have known. Looking forward to your reviews!
ReplyDeleteI picked up your link over on Pornokitsch. A comment on a review of Piers Anthony's work.
ReplyDelete"This is the Gospel according to fantasy's creepy uncle."
Anyway, followed the link back. Nice site. I love reading and appreciate independent reviews. Keep up the good work.
Thanks so much, Michael! I love Pornokitsch's reviews. Haven't thought about Piers Anthony in ages, but Jared got it spot on.
ReplyDeleteGlad you enjoyed the site!