Harvest House
Harvest House by Cynthia Leitich Smith, published by Candlewick Press on July 2, 2024, is a 320-page work in English that intertwines elements of contemporary realism with haunting mystery. The narrative follows Hughie Wolfe, who volunteers at a rural attraction called Harvest House as Halloween approaches. His excitement turns to concern when he discovers that the show features an actor portraying a vengeful spirit based on local legend, prompting him to confront the implications of this portrayal amidst a backdrop of unsettling events.
Readers will find a blend of coming-of-age themes and social justice issues as Hughie navigates the complexities of folklore and prejudice in his community. The story delves into the eerie happenings at the crossroads near Harvest House, including the unsettling behavior of local wildlife and the presence of a stalker targeting Indigenous women. As Hughie and his friends investigate the mysteries surrounding the attraction, they grapple with the challenges of speaking out against bigotry while seeking to protect their community. This edition offers a thoughtful exploration of social themes within a ghost story framework, making it a significant addition to young adult fiction.
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“Part coming-of-age tale, part social justice story, and part paranormal thriller. . . . This is one heckuva roller coaster ride.” —School Library Connection (starred review)
Deftly leading readers to the literary crossroads of contemporary realism and haunting mystery, Cynthia Leitich Smith revisits the world of her American Indian Youth Literature Award winner Hearts Unbroken. Halloween is near, and Hughie Wolfe is volunteering at a new rural attraction: Harvest House. He’s excited to take part in the fun, spooky show–until he learns that an actor playing the vengeful spirit of an “Indian maiden,” a ghost inspired by local legend, will headline. Folklore aside, unusual things have been happening at night at the crossroads near Harvest House. A creepy man is stalking teenage girls and young women, particularly Indigenous women; dogs are fretful and on edge; and wild animals are behaving strangely. While Hughie weighs how and when to speak up about the bigoted legend, he and his friends begin to investigate the crossroads and whether it might be haunted after all. As Moon rises on All Hallow’s Eve, will they be able to protect themselves and their community?
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