Book Review The Phantom Music Box (The Haunted Museum Book 2)

This spooky middle-grade novel delivers a chilling tale about a young ballet dancer whose life becomes entangled with a mysterious music box from a haunted museum exhibit. When Emma chooses her best friend's birthday party over ballet class, she discovers an antique music box that seems to follow her home, granting her extraordinary dancing abilities whenever it plays. The story masterfully blends supernatural elements with the relatable pressures of friendship and artistic performance, creating an engaging mystery that will keep young readers turning pages.

What sets this ghost story apart is its thoughtful exploration of artistic passion versus supernatural control, as Emma gradually realizes the dark price of her newfound talent. The narrative builds genuine suspense while remaining age-appropriate for the 8-12 range, offering just enough spine-tingling moments without overwhelming younger readers. Children who enjoy museum mysteries, supernatural artifacts, and stories about friendship under pressure will find this particularly compelling, with its satisfying resolution that emphasizes personal strength over magical shortcuts.