The Secret of Midway by Steve Watkins

The first book in the Ghosts of War Series by Steve Watkins, The Secret of Midway (Lexile: 840; Interest Level: Grades 3-6) really surprised me.  I am not usually a fan of ghost stories because I don't much like "spooky" things.  However, I found this 2015-2016 Indian Paintbrush Nominee to be interesting, informative, and even quite funny!

Anderson wants to start a band with his best friend Greg, who invites Julie to join them. He needs a place for the group to rehearse, so his uncle gives them a room in the basement of his shop, as long as they clean it out.  While cleaning, they find an old Navy peacoat (a type of coat worn by sailors), and Anderson takes it home with him.  

It turns out, that the coat wasn't the only thing that Anderson took home.  That night, a ghost visits Anderson's room, shows him a letter and asks for Anderson's help remembering who he is and what happened to him.  This sends the new band-mates on a research adventure to discover what they can about the fate of this World War II sailor so that he can finally rest in peace.  

Readers interested in World War II will really enjoy this book.  Those who aren't, just might find themselves a lot more interested--I know I certainly did! (208 p.)

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