Bookshelf Bests: The Vanishing of Aveline Jones by Phil Hickes

If you’re searching for your next Bookshelf Best to recommend to young readers, look no further than The Vanishing of Aveline Jones by Phil Hickes. This spine-tingling mystery is ideal for older primary children who enjoy ghost stories with just the right amount of suspense.

Bookshelf Best: The Vanishing Of Aveline Jones

A Mystery That Grips From the Start

This is the second instalment in the Aveline Jones series, and it doesn’t disappoint. Aveline sets off to spend her winter holidays in the small village of Scarbury, expecting rest and relaxation. Instead, she’s drawn into a chilling mystery involving people who vanish without a trace—including her own uncle. The more she investigates, the more unsettling her discoveries become, especially as she begins to wonder whether the old house she’s staying in is hiding dark secrets of its own.

Why It Belongs as a Bookshelf Best

Phil Hickes masterfully crafts an eerie and atmospheric story that is exciting without being overwhelming for younger audiences. The suspense builds gradually, with eerie clues and ghostly encounters sprinkled throughout. What makes this story a true Bookshelf Best is Aveline herself—her bravery, curiosity, and determination make her a heroine that readers aged 9–12 will admire and relate to.

Final Thoughts

The Vanishing of Aveline Jones is the perfect pick for children who love mysteries with a supernatural twist. It’s creepy, clever, and full of charm—a brilliant balance that makes it both accessible and thrilling. Whether you’re building a home library or choosing class reads, this one earns its spot among your Bookshelf Bests.

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