GHOSTCLOUD

A supernatural story of one boy’s survival in the darkest of times, set in a dystopian London.

It has been two years since Luke Smith-Sharma last saw his family. Kidnapped along with thousands of other children, he spends his days shoveling coal in Battersea Power Station, hidden away from the world. The setting is palpably Dickensian, covered in steam and soot, and controlled by Cruella de Vil–like villain Tabatha Margate. White and Indian Luke is also half-ghost, able to see things others cannot. Aiding Luke in his efforts to escape are richly developed supporting characters: his best friend and bunkmate, Ravi; plucky new girl and plumber’s niece Jess; and Alma, a ghost girl yearning for closure. Along with Luke’s newfound ghosting skills, Alma teaches him how to leave the physical world and fly above steampunk London, where he gains a larger perspective on their predicament. The situation becomes harrowing as he learns of Margate’s despicable plans. Some of the content is quite gritty and dark as the novel critiques social inequities; it feels like Charles Dickens, Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials, and Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book rolled into one. Mann creates empathy for Luke, who shows clear hope and compassion for others during this evil time. The quick-witted humor and fast pace keep the entertainment factor high.

Thrilling.