Read at your own risk by Remy Lai

Read at Your Own Risk by Remy Lai is an exhilarating ride through a spooky and hilarious adventure that grips readers from start to finish. This illustrated sketch diary chronicles the eerie experiences of Hannah, a young girl who finds herself haunted by an evil spirit after a game with friends goes horribly wrong.

The story begins innocently enough with Hannah and her friends deciding to play Spirit of the Coin, a game meant to communicate with the dead. What follows is anything but innocent as an evil entity answers their call and embeds itself in the pages of Hannah’s journal. The playful, light-hearted tone quickly turns sinister as Hannah realizes the gravity of their mistake. Lai expertly balances humour and horror, crafting a narrative that is as laugh-out-loud funny as it is chilling.

Hannah's encounters with the spirit lead to a series of serious misfortunes, and her attempts to rid herself of the haunting provide both suspense and comic relief. The diary format, complete with Lai's expressive illustrations, immerses readers in Hannah's world, making the supernatural occurrences feel immediate and personal. The visual elements enhance the storytelling, adding layers of emotion and detail that words alone might miss.

Lai’s background as the creator of the award-winning Ghost Book shines through in her ability to weave a compelling, multi-dimensional tale. The illustrations are not just complementary but integral to the narrative, bringing Hannah's fears and frustrations to life. Each page turn holds a new surprise, whether it's a startling revelation or a moment of dark humour.

Read at Your Own Risk is a must-read for fans of Goosebumps and anyone who enjoys a good scare laced with laughter. It’s a masterful blend of frighteningly and darkly funny moments that keep readers hooked. Hannah’s journey is both a cautionary tale and a wildly entertaining adventure, making this book a standout in the genre, but it is definitely not for the faint hearted.

Themes: Evil spirits, Haunting and Scary, Humour.

Michelle O'Connell