Book Review - Phantom Academy by Christine Virnig

 

Phantom Academy by Christine Virnig is about twelve-year-old Finn dealing with his untimely death. Finn learns that even in death he can’t escape going to school. He discovers that he died when a coconut fell on his head. When he passed, he had to make a decision at a crossroads. He could attend Phantom Academy if he follows an unmarked path or the marked path to an unlikeable relative. The academy is a boarding school for underage ghosts who are trying to find their footing in the afterlife, and Finn is the newest student to arrive.

Finn doesn’t understand why he has to attend classes and do homework. He thought making friends would be easy, but he struggles to fit in. As he tries to adjust to his new school and classmates, he realizes that something strange is going on. Will Finn uncover what’s happening before it’s too late?

I read the author’s previous book, A Bite Above the Rest, and enjoyed it, so I was looking forward to this one. While reading, the premise also reminded me of the show School Spirits. Although the storylines are mostly different, both share the same idea of the undead being stuck in school.

I liked that the book had a lot of fun and humorous moments, and I think it would keep young readers entertained and wanting more. I also liked that the book tackled some heavier themes in a lighthearted way. The mystery element was engaging, and it was fun to try to piece together the clues. The ending leaves an opening for a second book, since a few questions remain unanswered. I’m looking forward to reading more of Finn’s adventures.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and were not influenced by the publisher or author.