Young Shadow & the Watchdogs by Ben Sears

This vibrant graphic novel delivers an action-packed baseball adventure where young hero Shadow must join forces with the Watchdogs to save Bolt City from spectral invaders. The high-stakes game against a team of ghosts and ghoulies creates immediate tension, blending sports excitement with supernatural thrills in a way that will captivate middle-grade readers. Sears' distinctive visual storytelling brings this imaginative world to life with dynamic panels and expressive characters that make the supernatural showdown feel both urgent and accessible.

The book's unique strength lies in how it transforms a familiar sports scenario into an extraordinary battle for survival, allowing readers to experience the camaraderie of teamwork under pressure. Children who enjoy graphic novels with bold artwork and fast-paced plots will find themselves completely immersed in Shadow's quest, while the baseball framework provides a comforting anchor amidst the supernatural chaos. This clever fusion of athletic competition and ghostly confrontation makes for an unforgettable reading experience that celebrates courage and collaboration.