Stage Fright

Ages 8 to 12, Grades 3 to 7

A new locked room scary story about thirteen-year-old Avery, who plans a séance at a deserted theater to bond with her friends, only to realize they’re locked inside with someone—or something—else. This spine tingling read is perfect for fans of Katherine Arden and Lindsay Currie!

When Avery returns to her hometown after moving away a year earlier, she is hoping to jump back into her friend group as if nothing’s changed.

Unfortunately, new interests, secret crushes, and changing dynamics get in her way. To reunite her BFFs, she suggests they host a séance at an abandoned theater that was the site of a horrible tragedy.

What starts as a fun outing, soon becomes a fight for survival after the group gets locked in…and discovers they’re not alone.

Story Locale:Illinois

About the Author

Wendy Parris has always loved telling stories. So she studied film at Northwestern University, acted in small Chicago theaters after graduation, and even made up tales on the spot as part of an improv comedy troupe. Now she writes spooky books for tweens and teens. She lives in Illinois with her family in an old house that is probably not haunted. Her debut novel, Field of Screams, was a Junior Library Guild Gold Star Selection.

Author Residence: Chicago, Illinois