Ferris

 Kate DiCamillo has written another engaging and important novel for young people in Ferris.

This the story of a young girl nicknamed Ferris, younger sister Pinky and their family.  Ferris is very close to her grandmother , Charisse, who is living with the family.  Now Uncle Ted has moved into the basement after having a disagreement with his wife, Aunt Shirley.  Charisse is staying in her room more and more, not feeling well.  She also keeps telling Ferris she can see a ghost standing on the threshold of the room. Little sister Pinky is looking for attention and starts getting in trouble calling herself an outlaw.

Ferris and her best friend will work hard to fulfill the wishes of the Charisse and the ghost and bring the family together.  This story is delightful even as it deals with serious subjects including sibling rivalry and death of a grandparent.  

Kate DiCamillo writes with expression and deals with these difficult topics in a soothing way for young readers.