The Boy Who Cried Ghost
For ages 9+
A gripping tale that masterfully blends the real and the supernatural, offering readers both an exciting ghost story and a powerful exploration of mental health, friendship, and resilience.
Following the success of Glitter Boy, Ian Eagleton’s latest middle-grade novel, ‘The Boy Who Cried Ghost’, published by Scholastic, brings readers into the hauntingly real world of Richard, a boy navigating the complexities of living with OCD, all while battling both inner and supernatural demons.
“Richard wished he had something like that in his life. Something like a book, something that would make him feel relaxed and serene. Something that would quieten his mind, even if just for a while.” - p.44 ‘The Boy Who Cried Ghost’
The story begins with Richard moving into his late grandma’s house with his single-mum who he absolutely adores. His new home is a place steeped in mystery, filled with mirrors, and shadowed by a locked wardrobe in his bedroom—one that holds a terrifying secret. An icy atmosphere surrounds the wardrobe, hinting that something is waiting to be unleashed. Eagleton masterfully builds suspense, with Richard’s spiralling anxiety mirroring the growing sense of dread in the house.
Richard’s OCD is at the heart of the novel, and Eagleton, drawing from his own experiences, delivers a raw and sensitive portrayal of the disorder. Richard’s rigid routines, relentless checking, and the severe anxiety that plagues him provide readers with an authentic glimpse into life with OCD. The discomfort, both physical and emotional, is palpable, yet it’s Richard’s courage, as he grapples with this disorder, that stands out.
Set in the Summer holidays and going into the first term in Richard’s Year 6 school year, the novel explores both his internal struggles and the challenges of making new friends. Richard’s world expands with the arrival of Mei (who has two mums), Quinn (they/them - a piano prodigy and amateur comedian), and book-loving Amelia (some great recommendations from her reading choices), an inclusive, diverse group that offers a refreshing and warm take on friendship. Yet, despite these connections, Richard continues to hide some of his most impressive qualities, like his extraordinary talent for maths, overshadowed by the constant fear and doubt that his anxiety casts over him.
Eagleton skilfully intertwines flashbacks throughout the story, slowly revealing the traumas from Richard’s past that contribute to his OCD and anxiety. These memories add depth and context, helping readers understand the weight Richard carries. But the real twist comes when Mum’s ‘everyones-in-denial’ boyfriend, Tony, takes matters into his own hands. After watching a YouTube video, Tony unlocks the mysterious wardrobe—and unleashes a dangerous poltergeist. The supernatural chaos that follows is nothing short of cinematic, evoking images reminiscent of the intense ghostly presence in ‘The Woman in Black’—but amplified. Eagleton’s descriptions of this malevolent force are vivid and chilling, and it’s impossible not to root for Richard as he summons immense bravery to confront the haunting threat, despite the limitations his OCD places on him.
In a moment that will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt unseen, Richard desperately seeks validation from his mum, whose disbelief echoes the frustration and heartbreak of trying to communicate struggles that others can’t—or won’t—acknowledge. The poltergeist is a striking metaphor for the unseen battles Richard fights every day, and his bravery in facing it is a testament to his growth throughout the novel.
The inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters feels effortless, woven naturally into the narrative. Eagleton shines in creating an inclusive cast, with Tony, Mei, Quinn, and Amelia each playing important roles in Richard’s journey. There are also moments of joy, like the research trip to the library and watching new friendships develop, which brings lightness and fun to balance the novel’s darker themes. Definitely check out The Fearless Four’s Sleepover Playlist at the back of the book!
Beyond the paranormal, ‘The Boy Who Cried Ghost’ is a story about overcoming fear—whether it’s the fear of the unknown, fear stemming from past trauma, or the fear of being judged. It tackles issues of toxic masculinity, vulnerability, and homophobia through characters like classmate Isla and her parents, while offering hope, family, and the importance of love.
Ian Eagleton’s deeply personal connection to the subject matter, including his own diagnosis of OCD as a youth and the loss of his dear Dad (famous for his jokes) at the time of writing, adds an extra layer of authenticity to the novel. ‘The Boy Who Cried Ghost’ is a gripping tale that masterfully blends the real and the supernatural, offering readers both an exciting ghost story and a powerful exploration of mental health, friendship, and resilience.
“Bloody hell! This review has made me weep!!!”
