Dread Wood (Book 1)

Jennifer Killick knows how to grab her readers from the first pages and keep them on the edge of their seats until the end. This book is billed as a middle-grade horror story. Don't let that classification deter you if you aren't of that age group. As a Nana with MG grandkids, I found it perfect for middle-grade readers and up...way up. The creepy atmosphere is extremely well-done.The four main characters are diverse and entertaining. I particularly enjoyed that initially loners, they survived the Saturday detention from hell by working together. You will find several subtle themes running through the book. I enjoyed the pace of the story. It kept me turning the pages and most anxious to learn what was coming next. If you love a fast-paced, entertaining, light horror (unless you are deathly afraid of spiders) tale that perfect for ages 12 & up, this is definitely a must-read for you.4.5/5I received a copy of the book for a blog tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.

My son is obsessed with this series of books, similar to goosebumps type of stories so great for 10 year olds without being too scary! I think he has every book. Definitely worth a read!

My daughter is just at that age where she is starting to be interested in creepy, horror type movies and stories and this book was absolutely perfect for her! Age appropriate, fun and thrilling!

First in the series of loser club books, I would say readers young and old will find much to like here, plenty laughs ,action and horrors ,will be checking out the next book.

As an English teacher and parent, with my youngest being 11, I can highly recommend this book. Just the right amount of humour and horror (well, nail-biting tension, really). In short, a thrilling ride and a series we will undoubtedly continue to read!

Jennifer Killick has to be the finest author of horror/science fiction for children writing today. Dread Wood is clever and has genuinely chilling moments. The plot moves at a breakneck pace, but also manages to have believable character based moments too, which do not make the plot lose momentum. That is a dazzlingly smart trick only a skillful author can pull off successfully. The characters are all flawed, but with well examined reasons and the book teaches us about friendship and forgiveness. A stunningly good read.