Wendy Parris’s debut novel, Field of Screams, is being marketed as a middle-grade horror, but for parents wondering about its scariness, it leans more into the spooky-mystery genre, making it a potentially great pick for young readers interested in a bit of suspense without excessive frights. If you’re considering Field of Screams for your child, this parents guide will help you understand what to expect from this engaging book.
At the heart of Field of Screams is 12-year-old Rebecca, who shares a fascination with ghosts and the supernatural with her late father. Armed with her father’s handbook, Heart-Stopping Heartland Hauntings, Rebecca is eager for a ghostly encounter of her own, as long as it’s not too terrifying. When Rebecca and her mother spend the summer at her father’s childhood farmhouse, Rebecca might just get her wish. She quickly notices signs suggesting a haunting presence and, despite her mother’s skepticism, decides to investigate.
The mystery deepens when Rebecca discovers a hidden note from her father in a comic book, hinting that he too encountered a similar ghostly presence at her age. This discovery transforms her investigation into a more personal journey, connecting her to her father’s past and their shared interests.
Field of Screams excels as a middle-grade adventure that thoughtfully explores themes of grief, the importance of friendship, and moving forward while cherishing memories of the past. One of the strengths of children’s literature is its ability to provide an enjoyable reading experience while subtly opening doors for important conversations about complex emotions. Parris strikes this balance effectively in Field of Screams.
Rebecca is a relatable and well-developed protagonist. Her interactions with family and friends are particularly compelling. Her complicated feelings about Kelsey, her mom’s new boyfriend’s daughter, for instance, feel authentically portrayed. Many young readers will likely identify with Rebecca’s experiences navigating blended family dynamics and forming new relationships. Similarly, the portrayal of Rebecca’s relationship with her mother is a highlight. While they don’t always agree, especially regarding Rebecca’s paranormal interests, their underlying love and shared grief for Rebecca’s father are palpable throughout the story.
One poignant aspect of the book revolves around the mother’s aversion to Rebecca’s interest in ghosts. Later in the story, the reason for this is revealed: she once shared this fascination with Rebecca’s father. After his death, her disappointment at not receiving a sign from his ghost led her to want to shield Rebecca from similar heartache. This emotional vulnerability adds depth to the story and creates a powerful moment of connection between mother and daughter.
For parents considering Field of Screams, it’s important to note that while marketed as horror, the book functions more effectively as a mystery. Readers seeking intense scares might be underwhelmed. However, for those who appreciate a spooky atmosphere, intriguing mystery, and heartfelt exploration of emotions, Field of Screams offers a rewarding reading experience.
If you’re interested in exploring Field of Screams further, you can find more details and reviews on Goodreads.
