The Ghost of Thomas Kempe

by Penelope Lively

James has had enough. His family has moved into a new cottage—with perfect trees for climbing and grounds ideal for digging—and strange things are starting to happen. The kind of mischief James might get up to… except it’s not him.

Someone’s scribbling odd messages on shopping lists and fences. Someone’s breaking bottles and spilling tea on the Vicar.

It’s a ghost—really. Thomas Kempe, a 17th-century apothecary, is back and insists James must become his apprentice. No one else believes it’s a ghost, so it’s up to James to get rid of him.

Otherwise, he can kiss his pocket money—and pudding—goodbye.

Themes

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  • Moving House
  • Mystery
  • Horror
  • Changes In Time
  • Fantasy
  • Family