The Library of the Dead by T. L. Huchu

The first book in the Edinburgh Nights series features 14 year old Ropa, a ghostalker. She has the ability to speak to ghosts and communicate messages from them to the living. After dropping out of school to look after her Gran and younger sister, Izwi, Ropa's work as a ghostalker is what keeps them alive. When Nicola, a dead mother, begs her to find her missing son Ollie, Ropa finds herself pursuing the mystery of what has happened to all the children who have disappeared. With her friend Joma giving her access to the magical texts in the Library of the Dead, the Secretary Sir Callendar giving her a sorcerous scarf, and a new best friend Priya Kapoor helping out, Ropa is soon on the dangerous trail of the evil criminals using the children.

Set in a post apocalyptic Edinburgh, the intrepid Roya, accompanied by her faithful fox companion, navigates the dark streets of the city and the dangers of Camelot, the tent city that has been set up for the homeless. Of Zimbadwean descent, Ropa is a strong, principled young girl who uses her mbira, an ancient African musical instrument to talk to the ghosts. The supporting cast of characters, her bestie Priya, Gram, younger sister and Jomo, as well as a range of villians, are all fleshed out fully and add depth to the story. And Ropa's witty asides lighten some of the dark and frightening events in the story.

I look forward to reading more in the Edinburgh Nights series, although people wanting a stand alone story will be happy with The Library of the Dead. Younger readers may enjoy Victoria Schwab's City of ghosts which is also set in Edinburgh.

Themes: Fantasy, Supernatural, Psychic ability, Ghosts, Libraries, Magic, Edinburgh (Scotland).

Pat Pledger