The End by Lemony Snicket

"'The end' is a phrase which refers to the completion of a story, or the final moment of some accomplishment, such as a secret errand, or a great deal of research, and indeed this thirteenth volume marks the completion of my investigation into the Beaudelaire case, which required much research, a great many secret errands, and the accomplishments of a number of my comrades, from a trolley driver to a botanical hybridization expert, with many, many typewriter repairmen in between. But it cannot be said that The End contains the end of the Baudelaires' story, any more than The Bad Beginning contained its beginning."

This is the final, miserable installment in the saga of the unfortunate Baudelaire orphans. Fans, like me, are anxious to find out what becomes of our fearless heroes...and you won't be disappointed. This is a fitting end to a series of bizzare and unfortunated events.

Learn more at HCL, Amazon, and here.

SLJ recommends grades 5-7.

The Beatrice Letters by Lemony Snicket

"The waiter agreed to bring this card with your drink. If you don't want to meet me, rip it in half when you are done with your root beer float, and I will leave and never try to contact you again."

Wait!!! Before you begin The End, peruse the Beatrice Letters. A series of actual correspondence between Mr. Snicket and the elusive Beatrice, this book contains important insights into the case of the Beaudelaire orphans. Not only is the information in the file critically important, but it is also presented in its original format: small calling cards, wrinkled notes, typewritten letters. (You kids do still know what a typewriter is, don't you?)

Learn more at HCL, Amazon, and here.

SLJ recommends grades 5 to 7.

Jade Green by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

"The moolight through the window illuminated the rose-colored chair by the writing table, the brandy cupboard, the cushions, the clock. It shone as well on the grand piano, and, taking another step so as to get a closer look, I saw the hand, the severed hand, fingering the keys."

After having been orphaned by her mentally unstable mother, Judith travels from Ohio to South Carolina to move in with an Uncle. Her Uncle's hospitality comes with only one clause, Judith must not bring any green items with her. Forced to break that rule, Judith begins to hear scratching, to uncover horrible sights, and to encounter her cousin Charles' leers. Is Jade Green really haunting Judith, or is Judith slipping into madness just like her mother?

Phyllis Reynolds Naylor spins a tightly crafted, page-turning, supernatural tale. This period tale combines romance, mystery, and chills while it explores the nature of horror. Discover which is scarier, a disembodied hand or Cousin Charles!

Learn more at HCL, Amazon, and the author's web site.

(SLJ recommends grades 5 through 8)