The Orca Shivers series offers fast-paced, quick reads that will thrill middle-grade readers with spine-tingling tales of horror, suspense and mystery! These fast-paced thrillers with intriguing original illustrations are a great high-interest choice for young readers.
Bring on the (age-appropriate ) scares!
Escape From Hillcrest House
In this short thriller, Finnigan lives with his family at Hillcrest House, a creepy mansion deep in the woods. When he discovers that his secluded life isn’t what it seems, he sets out to discover the truth.
“An excellent purchase where thrillers are popular, perfect for reluctant readers.” —School Library Journal
The Bottle Witch of Brimely
Twelve-year-old Dory must capture the evil night witch she accidentally released in this novel with a twisty plot that will keep readers guessing.
“A short, not-so-scary horror mystery for reluctant readers or fans of Katherine Arden’s Small Spaces.” —School Library Journal
Do Not Go Out At Night
This chilling and tense murder mystery told in collage format with transcripts, journal entries and more will appeal to readers looking for a quick intense read.
“For a quick read, this book is a great choice that employs familiar thriller tropes. Alternating perspectives, photos, news stories, and text threads are all used to good effect and keep the story moving quickly.” —School Library Journal
Malice at the Mall
In this short horror novel, eleven-year-old Mina finds herself pursued by murderous mannequins when she gets locked in the mall after hours.
“Thrilling and spooky fun.” —Canadian Teacher Magazine
Glow in the Graveyard
In this horror novel, Clara follows a mysterious glow in the cemetery and is lured into a terrifying trap.
“As Clara’s and Sarah’s lives become intertwined in this gently told, never-too-scary story, Gravel accessibly highlights—through their differences and similarities—themes of morality and reckoning with the unknown.” —Publishers Weekly