Lindsay Currie's Scritch Scratch receives acclaim for its engaging ghost story, relatable characters, and well-woven historical elements, making it a great read for middle-grade audiences. However, some readers feel the pacing can be slow at times. Overall, it effectively blends spookiness with emotional depth, offering both thrills and heartwarming moments.

A reader who enjoys Scritch Scratch by Lindsay Currie is typically a middle-grade student who loves spooky mysteries and historical themes. Fans of Goosebumps by R.L. Stine and The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman will find this ghostly tale, set in Chicago, particularly engaging.

In Scritch Scratch by Lindsay Currie, 12-year-old Claire Koster, a science enthusiast, reluctantly helps her ghost-obsessed father on his Chicago ghost tour, only to find herself haunted by a mysterious boy from the past. To solve this ghostly mystery, Claire teams up with friends, unravels historical secrets, and faces personal challenges, ultimately seeking to bring peace to the restless spirit.

Mysterious / Unnerving / Suspenseful / Challenging / Bittersweet

- Scritch Scratch is written by Lindsay Currie, an author known for her ability to weave middle-grade novels with elements of mystery and the supernatural.
- Lindsay Currie drew inspiration from actual historical ghost stories and legends around Chicago to create the setting for Scritch Scratch.
- The book includes several real locations and historical details, adding to its authentic, eerie atmosphere, and reflecting Currie's interest in Chicago's haunted history.

**Claire Koster**  
A 12-year-old girl who loves science and fears the supernatural, serving as the protagonist and narrator. She deals with her father's ghost tour business and the challenges of friendship and trust.

**Casley**  
Claire's best friend, who shares her interest in science and is working to maintain friendships with both Claire and her new friend Emily. Casley is empathetic and emotionally mature.

**Emily**  
Casley's new friend who initially seems to Claire like an antagonist due to her appearance and popularity. Despite facing personal challenges, she becomes a supportive friend to Claire and Casley.

**Sam Koster**  
Claire's older brother, who attends the same middle school and is initially presented as a source of conflict for Claire. He later supports her, proving to be a loyal and kind sibling.

**Claire’s Parents**  
Julia and David Koster, who both run their own businesses. David's ghost tours are a source of tension with Claire, while Julia provides support through her cooking and "teachable moments."

**Warner Jameson**  
A classmate with whom Claire has a crush. He is characterized by his kind nature, and his connection to Emily is revealed later in the story, enhancing his role in the social dynamics.

**Willie Novotny (Boy 396)**  
A young ghost from a historical tragedy who appears to Claire. His haunting presence connects with Claire on a deeply personal level, and he is a key figure in the narrative's exploration of history and remembrance.

Lindsay Currie

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Before You Read

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Overview

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Scritch Scratch Summary and Study Guide

Background

Scritch Scratch Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-7

Scritch Scratch Chapters 1-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-15

Scritch Scratch Chapters 8-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-22

Scritch Scratch Chapters 16-22 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 23-30

Scritch Scratch Chapters 23-30 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 31-Epilogue 

Scritch Scratch Chapter 31-Epilogue  Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Scritch Scratch Character Analysis

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Themes

Scritch Scratch Themes

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Scritch Scratch Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Scritch Scratch Important Quotes

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Scritch Scratch Essay Topics

Scritch Scratch

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