Something Upstairs

By: Avi

Narrated by: George Guidall

“What Kenny saw - or thought he saw - were two hands, then two arms, reaching up from the stain, pushing away a box of his mother’s old books that was sitting on it. These hands and arms seemed to be not flesh and blood but sculptured, glowing smoke. It was as if, from under that box, a body was struggling to be free."

Kenny Huldorf is not happy when he learns that he and his family will be moving all the way across the country to Rhode Island, a state smaller than Los Angeles, the city he’s known his whole life. His new home, The Stillwell House, was built in 1789 and, like everything in Providence, it seems old-fashioned and somber. But things start to look a little brighter when Kenny’s mom shows him his new bedroom: a long, open attic with plenty of room and privacy. While he puts his things away, Kenny discovers a small room at the far end of the attic with a mysterious dark stain covering the center of the floor. All day long Kenny can’t shake the feeling that someone is in the attic with him. Late that night, awakened by sounds coming from where the small room is, Kenny opens the door to a horrifying tale from the past.

©1988 Avi (P)1992 Recorded Books

A childhood favorite

I read this exact version on cassette in the 90's, and it has definitely stood the test of time. It's a good story for sure.

epicbook

epic
it was sad at some parts but WOW that was epic
but some of the female characters had a Male voice

Amazing story

To have grown up and lived in Providence, RI makes this story even more interesting and intriguing. Having actually visited many of the landmarks mentioned in this book as a kid. Revisiting all these years later, over 30 years now. This story is one of the hidden thrillers and treasures by AVI.

Must read

When I finished I was so moved. It so happens I have a friend named Kalib.I can’t wait to read it again. I suggest it for anyone. Avi is a great author.

Wonderful ghost story

Listened to this with two 9 year olds in the car on a road trip. Was pleasantly surprised with the great character development and interesting twists that this story accomplished in 3-ish hours.

The book doesn’t shy from the slave trade and racism, which is a great segue for a conversation about these topics with your kids.

The most important thing, though, is that this is a fabulous, concise story that had two 9 year olds (and one 40-ish old) listening straight for the whole time.

Highly recommended.