The Bell Witch: An American Ghost Story

by Megan Cooley Peterson

Overview

The haunting of the Bell family at their home in Tennessee started out harmless enough with knocking and scratching noises. But soon members of the family were scratched, kicked, and slapped by a spirit who identifies herself as a witch named Kate Batts. Centuries later, this legendary ghost story continues to haunt all who hear it.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781543573350
Publisher:	Capstone
Publication date:	08/01/2019
Series:	Real-Life Ghost Stories
Pages:	32
Product dimensions:	8.00(w) x 10.00(h) x (d)
Lexile:	770L (what's this?)
Age Range:	8 - 14 Years

About the Author

Megan Cooley Peterson is a children's book author and editor. Her book How To Build Hair-Raising Haunted Houses (Capstone Press, 2011) was selected as a Book of Note by the TriState Young Adult Review Committee. When not writing, Megan enjoys movies, books, and all things Halloween. She lives in Minnesota with her husband and daughter.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Afraid Of The Dark 4

Chapter 1 The Trouble Begins 6

Chapter 2 Unseen Hands 10

Chapter 3 The Ghost Targets Betsy Bell 16

Chapter 4 A Deadly End 22

Chapter 5 Who Was The Bell Witch? 26

Glossary 30

Read More 31

Internet Sites 31

Index 32

Interviews

Appeals to fans of Stranger Things, Disney's Descendants, Pirates of the Caribbean, Goosebumps, and other paranormal and horror media; Appeals to those who may be interested in horror but may be too young for the "teen" versions; Carefully leveled text appeals to at-level reluctant readers as well as struggling readers at higher grades

Editorial Reviews

11/01/2019

Gr 3–8—Titles highlight ghostly encounters; two describe hauntings that befell actual families. Clear, punchy, occasionally gory prose engages, yet the overall tone is non-sensational. Eye-catching covers and weird visuals enhance the spooky appeal. "Skeptic's Note" sidebars offer possible explanations or alternate viewpoints. Other sidebars, some labeled "Fact," some elaborately framed, include definitions, probing questions, or additional information. Readers learn some ghost stories may be related to or are versions of historical legends and correspond to stories known internationally, emphasizing the tales' universality. Caution: Bloody Mary and La Llorona may be too dark/intense for the very young or very sensitive; they're recommended for older students. VERDICT Engrossing for ghost story and "history mysteries" fans in public and school libraries. In journalism or creative writing units, students can write news stories about or interviews with haunted individuals.

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