We Are Already Haunting Here
Gideon Sterer, illustrated by Charlie Mylie
Verdict:
While the cool-toned art may look spooky, this picture book is sweet and warm-hearted, perfect for the most gentle of introductions to the concept of ghosts and hauntings.
What is it about?
A googly-eyed little spirit must find a place to haunt in order to be considered “a real ghost”. But this is easier said than done when everywhere the ghost turns . . . is already haunted! Mansions, drains, even mailboxes are all taken, and the little ghost is turned away time and time again in no uncertain terms. Will it find a place to haunt? And if it does, will it turn other wandering ghosts away as well, or will it do better?
Our take:
We Are Already Haunting Here takes a simple premise of a ghost looking for a place to haunt and spins it into a lovely tale worth re-reading. The text is brief, with just enough material to offer opportunity for some fun voices that can be changed up each time. The plot allows space for imagination, and is sure to conjure intriguing questions and only-very-gently spooky imagery in young listeners’ minds. Humor keeps the story light, and young readers will likely find the protagonist a sympathetic hero.
While the color palette may appear grim at first glance, with its muted purples, blues, and dark greys, it never feels one-note, deftly pulling viewers through dynamic spreads and beautifully textured, movement-filled scenes. The art also offers up some delightfully subtle nods toward larger stories, such as the boat in the opening spread, the quirky hat and crow throughout, and the paintings on the wall in the final pages.
Perfect for:
We think this story is especially suited for listeners 3 and up, who will resonate with the themes of finding one’s place in the world, and may have plenty of questions about haunting, ghostliness, and the idea of welcoming others instead of shutting them out.
Conversation starters:
Why does the ghost want to find a place to haunt?
Why do you think the other ghosts won’t make space for our hero ghost?
What would you do if you were a ghost? Where would you choose to haunt? Would you make space for others?
What do you think of the ghost’s hat?
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