Halloween Masks and Pumpkins
By R. L. Stine
Scholastic, $15.99, 231 pages
July marked the 20th anniversary of Goosebumps, R. L. Stine’s best-selling children’s series. Stine has sold over 300 million books, which makes him one of the most prolific and successful authors of his time. To celebrate this global phenomenon, Scholastic is releasing five books in a Goosebumps: Most Wanted series, which will give fans the chance to catch up with favorite characters and plots. Stine begins with Goosebumps Wanted: The Haunted Mask. Young readers, ages 8-12, are in for a scary treat.
Lu-Ann and Devin are worried that Halloween is going to be boring. Lu-Ann wants to wear a great costume, but the mask she chooses is haunted. When she puts it on, it attaches to her skin and makes her do frightening things. Only an act of kindness can save her. Her best friend Devin isn’t there to help. His family is running a pumpkin patch. Devin keeps seeing vines moving, and swears the pumpkins are breathing and smiling. How will he survive a week at the haunted farm?
Stine doesn’t disappoint readers. The chapters are short and suspenseful. His exciting conclusion brings both stories together. He even includes a twist at the end – the kind he is known for and that fans love. Parents should know that Stine’s books are considered “soft scares.” The content is never too horrifying. They are just scary enough to give goose bumps!
Reviewed By Kathryn Franklin
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