Stonewords

Zoe lives with her grandparents since her mother's wandering spirit keeps her away from home. Young children often have imaginary friends, so when she begins playing with Zoe Louise her grandparents take little notice. Zoe Louise died 100 years ago in a fire and she haunts the house, trying to draw Zoe into her time - with eerie consequences. Zoe determines to save her friend from death and by using the time travel Zoe Louise has taught her, she's able to do so. Stated baldly, the plot seems contrived and formulaeic - but this is far from the case. Pam Conrad's descriptions of the time-travel are remarkable - subtle, detailed and very readable. On offer here is a very accomplished reworking of an old theme. It will absorb lovers of gently haunting tales from Years 7 to 9.