The Ghost of Miss Annabel Spoon

The Ghost of Miss Annabel Spoon written and illustrated by Aaron Blabey (Viking)

PB RRP $29.95

ISBN 978 0 670 07474 7

Reviewed by Gail C Breese

In landscape format the cover illustration sets the scene for this delightful ghost story in mixed media using subdued colours of greys, browns and greens.

The people of the village of Twee had a problem. They feared that the town was haunted by a ghost called Miss Annabel Spoon. She appeared amongst the townspeople at any time of the day or night and they were terrified.

‘Enough is enough,’

Puffed the Mayor in a huff

To a crowd who were equally cranky.

‘Things must be improved,

Yes she must be removed.’

Then he patted his head with a hanky.

Brave young Herbert Kettle had an idea: he’d go to the witch’s house in the woods and ask why she haunted the town. Annabel was so glad to see Herbert and in tears told him that she was tired of being alone. Herbert promised to be her friend and now she no longer haunted the townspeople who were happy again.

The rhyming text has a pleasing rhythm which is fun to read aloud. The illustrations are intriguing and expressive.

Aaron Blabey’s first picture book Pearl Barley and Charley Parsley received a CBCA Award in 2008. Sunday Chutney was shortlisted for CBCA picture book of the year 2009.