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Cover of The Spook's Apprentice

The Spook's Apprentice

Joseph Delaney (2004)

SubgenreParanormal Fantasy
Age groupMiddle Grade 8-12
Content ratingPG
Pages340 (Standard (250-400))
SettingSecondary World
CSM age10+

Content levels

ViolenceModerate
Sexual contentNone
LanguageNone

Protagonist archetypes

Coming-of-Age Protagonist

Synopsis

For years, Old Gregory has been the Spook for the county, ridding the local villages of evil. Now his time is coming to an end. But who will take over for him? Twenty-nine apprentices have tried—some floundered, some fled, some failed to stay alive. Only Thomas Ward is left. He’s the last hope; the last apprentice. Can Thomas succeed? Will he learn the difference between a benign witch and a malevolent one? Does the Spook's warning against girls with pointy shoes include Alice? And what will happen if Thomas accidentally frees Mother Malkin, the most evil witch in the county ... ?

Is The Spook's Apprentice appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 10 and up.

Features supernatural horror elements including witches, ghosts, and dark creatures with moderate scary scenes and peril. Violence is present but not graphic, appropriate for mature middle grade readers.

What to know going in

This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include death, violence, and animal harm (see the full list above).

Who'll love this

A thrilling supernatural adventure where a brave apprentice must learn to battle witches, ghosts, and evil forces threatening his county.

Tags

Dark FantasyGothic HorrorHistorical FantasySupernatural