I loved this book - it was funny, fast paced and spooky with atmospheric illustrations.
Mallory's parents have died tragically but, as she's got the ability to see and talk to ghosts, she isn't missing them yet. Great start to the book then it's full of silly jokes/insults from a talking skull, evil shadows and lots of bones. Great character and place names too. Will be loved by middle grade readers who like their books creepy.

This is a book about an orphaned girl with a gift to talk to spirits -- and that includes the spirits of her dead parents. The illustration at the beginning of the book gripped me before I even started reading it. Then the witty writing took over and I was blown away by it. It gives off some "Wednesday" vibe in an even more comical way. I am sure my students would love it.

What a fun book, this is written mainly for children but I really enjoyed it as well. Mallory and Maggoty have such a fun dynamic that just keeps you wanting to read on.

The illustrations in this book are stunning and have a Tim Burton vibe to them that I loved and they really help the story along.

I managed to read this book in one day because I just wanted to know what was going to happen with Mallory and her wacky aunt.

This should be added to most children’s reading lists if they want something slightly spooky!

Mallory Vayle and the Curse of Maggoty Skull is a middle grade/juniour horror comedy book which is enjoyable for adult readers too.
This is Mallory’s story - Mallory who has gifts, and who wants to save (? there is a much better word but I will use ‘save’ to spare you more suspense), and we have peculiar aunt, an evil spirit and a talking skull. Accompanied by the fun illustrations of Pete Williamson, Mallory and Maggoty oozes Halloween spirits; think everything we like about Halloween - spooky fun and gothic characters.
This book gripped me from the opening, which was hilarious (the remarks about funeral tropes) and managed to sustain my attention throughout.
I have not shared it with my 9yo child yet, and can’t wait to share it.
For the younger section of the middle grade (8-10yo), this could have been 10-15% shorter.
Overall, I highly recommend reading it. 4.5 stars.
Concept, mood, setting: 5
Characterisation: 5
Plot: 4.5
Prose: 4.5 (hilarity 5/5)
Pacing and length: 4